Welcoming Workers in Maine
This summer Mano en Mano worked throughout the months of June, July and August to support individuals and families arriving for the 2022 blueberry harvest.
It is estimated that 1,500-3,000 migrant farm workers and their families arrive to Downeast Maine each year to partake in the blueberry harvest. Mano en Manos works hard to help to fill the gaps in support that many migrant workers face when they arrive in Maine, provide access to essential services and resources, and welcome new and returning faces to our community.
This summer our team worked alongside more than 7 partner organizations to organize mobile and site based Welcome and Resource Centers. These fairs were designed to welcome folks to our community, and connect them to resources and services they may need while in the area
In total, Mano en Mano organized 5 site based Welcome and Resource Fairs in Cherryfield and Milbridge, and more than 6 mobile fairs throughout Washington and Hancock Counties.
At the fairs, participants were given resource bags with information about COVID-19 safety and vaccination, lists of local resources and contact information, and ‘Know your Rights Information’ in order to better self advocate. At each fair, we worked with local clinics and healthcare workers to provide vaccine services and interpretation support and supported 295 people in accessing COVID-19 testing.
Mano en Manos culturally relevant food pantry played a vital role in this year's food access work, and provided access to fresh produce, meat and non-perishable goods. Mano en Mano also provided hot meals, clothing, and supported attendees in making connections with partner organizations in the areas of legal, educational, social, and health support. Partner organizations including Pine Tree Legal, the Mexican Consulate, WIC, Preble Street, National Farmworker Job Association, the Maine Department of Labor Career Center, and more were in attendance!
In total, more than 2,077 people were served at Welcome and Resource Fairs from June-August, and Mano en Manos culturally relevant food pantry distributed 33,500 pounds of food, and an estimated 700 hot meals.
This year was a particularly challenging year for many workers and their families, as inflation rates soared and a drought impacted the harvest. Community members shared with us:
“Este año la fruta es muy pequeña, y uno tiene que hacer doble el trabajo para cosechar lo mismo de años atrás. Vengo a Maine cada año…empiezo mi año en Florida, y voy trabajando en agricultura por el este. Este ha sido el año más duro en Maine por la sequía. El precio por canasta na ha cambiado en años, y con lo que tengo que pagar en gasolina y transporte, voy a salir casi tablas este año.
This year, the berries are very small, and one has to do double the work to harvest the same amount as previous years. I come to Maine every year… I begin my year in Florida and I work in agriculture traveling up east. This year has been the most difficult year in Maine for the drought. The price paid for a basket hasn’t changed in years and with what I have to pay in gas and transportation, I will almost just cut even this year.
“El precio de la comida en la tienda esta super elevado…la comida aquí me apoya mucho”
The cost of food at the store is really high…the food here helps me alot.
“Cuando uno viene por primera vez a Maine, no sabe cómo será la situación y que hay. Eso me ayudó a conocer más de lo que hay en el área y saber a quién puedo llamar por cualquier situación.
“When one comes to Maine for the first time, you don’t know what it will be like and what there is. This helped me learn a bit more about what is in the area and know who I can call for whatever situation that may arise.”
This work would be impossible if it were not for the support of community members, volunteers, grants and valued partner organizations that dedicate their time, resources and expertise.
We want to extend our gratitude for the partnership and support this summer, and for prioritizing the needs and dreams of our community.
Help us continue our work and support communities to thrive across Maine
