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County reports farmworker survey: 439 responses show housing preference for single‑family units; sample not yet representative
Summary
A county survey of farmworkers received 439 responses (about 15% of an estimated 2,908 workers); respondents prefer single‑family housing (73% preference) though the county cautioned the sample is not statistically representative and outreach will continue, especially to seasonal and H2A workers.
County staff presented results from an agricultural worker housing survey and described outreach and next steps to address farmworker housing needs.
SIPA Director Edgar Velasco and Ag Commissioner Priscilla Yini told the committee the division conducted the survey in FY 24–25 through three translated community events and targeted outreach with community organizations and employers. The county estimated 2,908 farmworkers in Santa Clara County and reported 439 completed responses (roughly 15%). Presenters emphasized that the current sample is a point‑in‑time snapshot, not a statistically representative sample, and staff intend to continue outreach during different seasons to reach migrant and H‑2A workers.
Survey responses showed housing conditions and preferences: 39% of respondents reported living in single‑family housing (one family per home), 24% reported living in multi‑family households, and 15% described shared or dormitory‑style living spaces. When asked about preferred housing, 73% selected single‑family housing. Respondents also identified top resource needs: assistance with educational services, medical information and help applying for financial assistance.
Committee members thanked staff for the outreach and suggested additional engagement strategies, including partnering with United Farm Workers, the Farm Bureau, local mayors and school districts to increase participation and trusted access. Staff described practical survey challenges: some employers restrict phone use, requiring paper surveys and outreach across shifts; repeated attempts to reach farm labor contractors for seasonal worker participation had limited success.
The committee requested continued efforts to increase participation, recommended periodic reporting and suggested hosting follow‑up resource fairs to connect respondents with services identified in the survey. No formal policy was adopted; the committee moved to advance the items and asked staff to continue coordination across supportive housing, public health and workforce partners.
