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Dear Friends, Estimadas Amigas y Amigos,
Happy New Year from HACER!
As we welcome 2026, we begin a new cycle in our lives. This year, like many before, brings both challenges and opportunities. We continue to witness struggle and fear, but also resilience, hope, and the determination to move forward. In these moments, it is essential that we come together to support those who are—and will be—in need.
At HACER, we deeply value the work of our partner organizations that defend the basic rights of our communities. We reaffirm our commitment to collaborating with you, sharing reliable information, and serving Hispanics and Latinos in Minnesota and beyond. Our mission remains clear: to generate trustworthy, unbiased knowledge that helps identify what is not working and to build better conditions for everyone.
We encourage you to stay informed and cautious. Do not rely on unverified information, especially on social media, where quick reactions often lack context and can create confusion.
January marks National Poverty in America Awareness Month, a reminder of an issue that persists despite decades of programs and initiatives. Organizations such as the Salvation Army, SNAP, Feeding America, Oxfam, and AmeriCorps continue to play vital roles in supporting communities against poverty and its consequences.
In Minnesota, poverty affects between 9–10% of the population, disproportionately impacting Black, Indigenous, and immigrant communities. According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services, youth are particularly vulnerable, with poverty rates reaching 11.2% to 15.4%. Data from Minnesota Compass confirms these disparities:
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Hispanics: 14.3%
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Blacks: 19.9%
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American Indians: 28.1%
Nationally, the U.S. reported a poverty rate of 12.1% in 2024, while Minnesota stood at 9.3%. Though lower than the national average, these numbers remind us that poverty remains a pressing issue.
Women are also more affected than men, with 9.3% of women in Minnesota living in poverty compared to 8.6% of men. Certain counties face even higher rates:
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Mahnomen: 19.3%
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Beltrami: 17.1%
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Cass: 14.7%
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Blue Earth: 14.3%
There is still much to do to reduce poverty across Minnesota. HACER renews its commitment to work hand in hand with our communities throughout 2026.
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If you are a funder or donor, keep these numbers in mind as you support our mission.
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If you are a community member, join us in our projects and help us help you.
Together, we can do more. Together, we can do better.
Con cariño y solidaridad,
Rodolfo Gutiérrez
Executive Director
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