There has been greater success in programs that relocate families from camps to apartments. Parents are more willing to confront additional expense and uncertainty if it means improving the lives of their children. However, immigrants without proper identification generally remain isolated outdoors. They are ineligible for services without proper documentation, and are reluctant to move into an apartment or dormitory for fear of being discovered. According to the San Diego County Farm Bureau, there are approximately 35,000 agricultural jobs in San Diego County among its members, in addition to the jobs provided by small, family-owned farms that are not Farm Bureau members.
Agricultural jobs are seasonal, however.
Farm workers are often paid minimum wage, and their earnings are further diminished by unpaid time off caused by rain or equipment failure. Although they may work up to 60 hours per week during peak seasons, they are not always paid overtime. Conversely, agricultural jobs tend to have a higher ratio of undocumented workers. However, whether in construction or agricultural jobs, workers are more likely to be living in rural encampments than in minimum standard housing. They are engaged in employment that requires responsibility, dependability, vigor, and stamina.