Episcopal Farmworker Ministry Seeks Support Amid Wage Cuts for H-2A Workers
The Episcopal Farmworker Ministry in North Carolina is calling for aid to support H-2A farmworkers after the U.S. government reduced their wages. The wage cuts, which vary by state, have significantly impacted farmworkers' ability to support themselves and their families. In North Carolina, the hourly wage for these workers dropped from $16.16 to $12.78. The ministry, part of the Diocese of East Carolina, provides various services to farmworkers, including English classes, mental health services, and economic development projects. The wage reduction has led to a decrease in the number of workers willing to return for the next season, exacerbating labor shortages and affecting agricultural production.