State representative Shirley Baca could not attend, but sent a letter in support of the plan. Organizers were very pleased with the press conference. It also helped dispel stereotypes about colonia residents. Padilla said the group should know by September whether or not HUD has approved their grant. They're feeling positive, he said, and eager to get started on the work ahead.
Assess community needs.
Home visits, community meetings, and education about housing acquisition, family budgeting, social services. Facilitate residents bringing homes into code compliance. For existing properties in the communities. In order to transform colonias into viable communities, it is critical to recognize that the challenges and obstacles are formidable. Such a transformation requires a commitment comparable to a regional Marshall Plan, because the existing conditions touch upon every aspect of human life.