Central Coast News KION/KCBAPoor Living Conditions For Farm Workers In Monterey County

Poor Living Conditions For Farm Workers In Monterey County

SALINAS, Calif- Everyone knows the cost of living in Monterey County is high and it's hard to find affordable housing.

According to the CRLA, or California Rural Legal Assistance, it's even harder for farm workers to find a place to live in that's up to county code.

"Lack of running hot and cold water. lack heating. have electrical wires that are exposed and present the risk of both shock and fire. Doors that don't have functioning locks on the doors and on the windows or it might have problems with rodents or insect pests," said Attorney Michael Marsh.

Marsh says poor living conditions are a hidden problem because most tenants fear deportation, losing their job or losing what they call home. instead, lawyers negotiate with landlords to make improvements

"Because it's better to have a roof over your head than no roof over your head but at the same time at least raise it to some level where people can safely live in the place even if the housing wouldn't pass health department standards."

It's something the Center for Community Advocacy also does because both organizations believe everyone deserves a safe and healthy home.