Overview

• Juniata County agriculture: 514 farms | 85,960 acres | $199M market value (2022).
• Key sectors: Dairy, poultry, meat processing, grains.

Undocumented Workers: By the Numbers

• ~50% of PA’s crop workers may be undocumented.
• 14%–50% of U.S. meatpacking workers are likely undocumented.
• These estimates suggest hundreds of workers in Juniata may lack legal status.

Roles They Play

• Harvesting crops, milking cows, raising poultry.
• Operating food packing and meat processing plants.
• Performing physically demanding, essential jobs.

Challenges Faced

• Limited legal protection and access to services.
• Social marginalization and fear of deportation.
• Often excluded from workplace safety or health benefits.

Why They Matter

• Help ensure food security for our community.
• Support the local economy with labor and spending.
• Part of the social fabric—contributing quietly but significantly.

Take Action

• Recognize their value publicly.
• Educate others about their role.
• Support inclusive, just immigration reforms.