# Around 500,000 People Continue to Live in Poverty in Baja California
Approximately 500,000 individuals remain in poverty in Baja California, with over 62,000 of them living in extreme poverty. The majority of these individuals are concentrated in areas of Mexicali known as “Los Pueblas,” “Los Santorales,” and the Mexicali Valley, according to Netzahualcóyotl Jáuregui Santillán, Secretary of Welfare in Baja California.
When the administration of Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda began, the number of people living in poverty was around 800,000. Since then, there has been a reduction of approximately 300,000 individuals in vulnerable conditions.
“The goal is to continue lowering poverty indicators. This secretariat aims to lift people out of vulnerability. In the first two years of the administration, there was a significant decrease in poverty levels,” Jáuregui added.
The state official noted that around 8,000 Baja Californians have escaped extreme poverty through assistance from 21 programs managed by the Welfare Secretariat, with the “Violet Card” being one of the most popular initiatives.
“We rank second to last, so we’re doing well. If we were at the top, it would mean the opposite. Only Baja California Sur ranks below us,” he said.
Jáuregui highlighted that the Secretariat works with data from the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy (Coneval) to analyze the areas where the most vulnerable populations are located.
Collaboration with the State Congress has increased with the formation of the Commission for Welfare, Children’s Rights, Youth, People with Disabilities, and the Elderly, chaired by Deputy Michelle Tejeda.
“Deputy Michelle is well-versed in welfare programs. We aim to work together to assist the most vulnerable populations because we understand Baja Californians’ needs,” he concluded.
## Additional News: Amnesty Granted to 19 People in Baja California
In other news, 19 individuals in Baja California have been granted amnesty. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to address various social issues in the state.
## Baja California Ranks Third in Financial Stress
Baja California is reported to rank third in terms of financial stress. This statistic has prompted further evaluation and action to alleviate economic pressures on the state’s residents.
## Economic Census 2024 Requires Nearly 600 Surveyors in Baja California
Nearly 600 surveyors are slated to assist in the 2024 Economic Census in Baja California. This significant data collection effort is essential for understanding and improving the region’s economic landscape.
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## Secondary News Article:
### Increased Aid Efforts Show Positive Trends Despite Persistent Poverty in Baja California
Recent reports have highlighted a persistent poverty issue in Baja California, with about 500,000 people still living in poverty, despite ongoing aid efforts. Over the past few years, multiple initiatives, including the popular “Violet Card” program, have helped significantly reduce the number of individuals in extreme poverty. The Welfare Secretariat’s targeted approach, using data analytic tools from Coneval, has identified key vulnerable populations, driving more efficient and effective aid distribution.
### New Collaboration Aims to Address Poverty and Vulnerable Populations
The formation of the Welfare, Children’s Rights, Youth, People with Disabilities, and Elderly Commission signals a more cohesive approach to addressing poverty. Chaired by Deputy Michelle Tejeda, the commission plans to integrate their efforts with those of the Welfare Secretariat. This combined effort reflects a deep understanding of the unique needs of Baja California’s most vulnerable populations—a critical step toward systemic change.
### Continued Monitoring and Initiatives
Ongoing evaluation and adaptation of policies based on these concentrated efforts are crucial. As the state continues to navigate financial and social challenges, programs like these remain integral to moving the needle on poverty reduction and improving the quality of life for Baja Californians.
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