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After decades of shrinking and uncertainty -- many young, working-age people struggled with addiction, others shunned entry-level and repetitive work -- Springfield was able to attract new manufacturing and business with a strategic plan, and by 2020 had drawn in food-service firms, logistics companies, and a microchip maker, among others. But what Springfield didn't have was enough workers.
“By most accounts, the Haitians have helped revitalize Springfield.
They are assembling car engines at Honda, running vegetable-packing machines at Dole and loading boxes at distribution centers. They are paying taxes on their wages and spending money at Walmart. On Sundays they gather at churches for boisterous, joyful services in Haitian Creole.”
Haitians who heard that the Springfield area boasted well-paying, blue-collar jobs and a low cost of living arrived as the pandemic subsided, and employers were eager to hire and train the new work force. The Haitians had Social Security numbers and work permits. Some had been living for years in places like Florida, where there is a thriving Haitian community. - CO
Good stuff, I am glad to hear that side of the story. Yet there are real residents who report that schools, hospitals, etc being overrun. Housing is unattainable unless you are a migrant. Traffic accidents are skyrocketing. Women fear going out at night.
Both things can be true. It is not a panacea but I glad to have your information.
