My protest paid off: Fast-food workers speak out

• Name: Claudette Wilson
• Employer: Burger King, Detroit

Claudette Wilson had asked her manager for more hours and a raise for months, but he kept saying no.

But just one day after joining a protest in Detroit, Wilson's hours were boosted to 35 from 25 per week.

"It gives me hope that I can stand up and make a change," she said. "It means a lot less stress for me."

For Wilson, the change is a huge help. She started working as a crew member cooking and cleaning at Burger King (BKW) three years ago, when she was 17. She worked 25 hours per week, making $7.40 an hour, while also attending school four days studying music production.

Her wages were barely enough to cover the gas bill for her car.

"On top of my car, gas and insurance, I have to start paying my loans back in September," she said.

Wilson's store manager did not respond to requests for comment. Burger King said in a statement that the hiring, firing or other employment-related decisions are made by its franchisees.

NEXT: After eight years, a promotion!