High birth rates, immigration and migration in response to the border industrial boom, are contributing factors. These settlements are home to an estimated 500,000 residents. Approximately half of Texas colonia residents do not have adequate water supplies. 1,190 out of 1,193 Texas colonia residents surveyed in 1992 have no approved wastewater services. Incidence of health problems is high.
Education levels are quite low and school dropout rates are high.
To improve access and culturally relevant service options to individuals along the Texas-Mexico border so that residents have the opportunity to lead lives of dignity and independence. Develop strategies to improve access of services. Outline potential barriers to achieving mission and vision. Coordinate efforts with colonia residents, county governments, local, state, and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other institutions with established programs and initiatives in the colonias. Include colonias effort in local and statewide strategic planning.