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Beyond the Fields: Empowering New Jersey’s Migrant Workers with CATA’s Holistic Support

catafarmworkers

Updated: Oct 4, 2024


In the lush fields of New Jersey, where much of our nation's produce is harvested, a silent struggle unfolds daily. Migrant workers, the backbone of our agricultural system, face challenges that many of us can scarcely imagine. At CATA - The Farmworkers Support Committee, we're committed to standing alongside these essential workers, fighting for their rights, and providing crucial support. Today, we'd like to share insights from one of our dedicated worker organizers, Edgar, who has been on the front lines, witnessing firsthand the hurdles our migrant community faces and the impact of our collective efforts to overcome them.


Battling the Elements: More Than Just a Job


This year has been especially tough for the migrant worker community. Edgar reports that extreme heat and shorter picking seasons have created significant difficulties. High temperatures have made daily tasks exhausting and have tested the limits of workers’ endurance.


"Many farmworkers struggled to maintain their energy throughout the day," Edgar explains. Some farmers even reduced work hours to prioritize worker health, but this decision also meant reduced income for families already facing financial difficulties.



CATA's Response: Education, Advocacy, and Support


In the face of these challenges, CATA has doubled down on its commitment to worker wellbeing. Our approach is multifaceted:


Education: We've intensified our efforts to inform workers about their rights, especially concerning workplace safety during extreme weather conditions.


Empowerment: Edgar and our team emphasize to workers that it's okay - even necessary - to prioritize their health. "I want them to feel comfortable expressing their concerns about heat stress," Edgar states passionately. "They should never feel guilty about prioritizing their health—after all, they are human beings deserving of care and respect."


Assistance with Relief Applications: Recognizing the economic strain caused by reduced work hours, CATA has been assisting workers in applying for the Farmworker Relief Fund. While we don't provide the fund directly, we guide workers through the application process, ensuring they can access this vital resource during challenging times.



Beyond the Fields: Holistic Support for Migrant Communities


CATA's work extends far beyond immediate workplace concerns. We understand that empowering our migrant communities requires a comprehensive approach. Edgar's outreach work has included:


Document Assistance: Helping workers obtain passports, consular IDs, and voter IDs. This seemingly simple task opens doors to financial stability and community integration.


ITIN Applications: Encouraging and assisting workers in applying for Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, paving the way for credit building, home ownership, and entrepreneurship.


Unemployment Support: Providing guidance on unemployment benefits for those with legal status, ensuring financial stability during off-seasons.



Your Role in This Important Work


The challenges faced by migrant workers are complex and ongoing, but with your support, CATA can continue to make a real difference in their lives. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide essential services, education, and advocacy for those who work tirelessly to put food on our tables.


How You Can Help


Donate: Your financial support directly funds our outreach programs, educational initiatives, and support services.


Spread the Word: Share this post and CATA's mission with your network. Awareness is the first step towards change.


Volunteer: If you're in the South Jersey area, consider volunteering your time and skills to support our work. Contact: cata@cata-farmworkers.org


Together, we can ensure that the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of migrant workers are protected and advanced. Join us in this crucial mission - because when we support our migrant workers, we strengthen our entire community.




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