Stephanie K. Grier, BS, School of Public Health, Drexel University, 1100 South Broad St, Apt 517C, Philadelphia, PA 19146, 267-240-5102, skg26@drexel.edu and Augusta M Villanueva, PhD, Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University School of Public Health, 1505 Race Street, 11th floor, Rm. 1115, Mail Stop 660, philadelphia, PA 19102.

The increased settlement of Mexican immigrants in the U.S. is deeply impacting local governments. Mexican communities are emerging in areas that are not traditional sites and thus local infrastructures are often inadequate to meet their needs. Additionally, the often undocumented status of this population contributes to a lack of knowledge regarding their needs, while federal policies discourage local governments from advocating on their behalf. The origin, history, and socioeconomic characteristics of newly arrived Mexicans present with assets and challenges that differ from other more well-established Latino communities in the United States. Data collected among newly arrived Mexican immigrants in Philadelphia identifies several key themes including housing, employment, education, and health. Discrimination is present around immigration status in each of these areas. There is a dearth of bi-lingual, culturally sensitive professionals in career services, the legal system, and health care. Many newly arrived Mexicans are forced to work long hours resulting in an inability to properly supervise their children or access health care for them. Youth development opportunities need to be identified given the importance of fostering civic engagement early on. These issues call for advocacy and strategic planning efforts among local government and non-profit organizations. Policies surrounding undocumented populations require clarification and dissemination. Successful integration and civic engagement of newly arrived immigrants in the U.S. falls upon all local organizations public and private.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify areas of need within developing communities of newly arrived immigrants.
• Describe policy implications of growing undocumented immigrant communities.
• Describe areas of advocacy and strategic planning that local public and private organizations can undertake.

Keywords: Latinos, Needs Assessment

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Congreso de Latinos Unidos of Philadelphia, PA
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.