The Central Coast communities that were recently inundated by floodwaters are facing growing uncertainty, especially those working in the farming industry.
While the floodwaters are receding, the levee breach will have a long-lasting impact on the largely agricultural town.
Hundreds, if not thousands, of farmworkers are homeless and without work due to the flooding.
Although the situation is improving, some farms are still submerged or soaked, leaving many workers unsure of what their future holds.
The Westview Presbyterian Church in Watsonville has become a hub for evacuees, including Norma Estrada, who fled with her five children and has nothing left.
Jessica Cervantes, a farmworker with two young children, is also uncertain about how she and her husband will make ends meet.
To help the affected residents, Racey Carino, which helps farmworkers, has set up a donation center where evacuees can obtain clothing, food, and diapers.
The impact of the flooding on the agriculture industry is substantial, with some farms experiencing significant damage.
The California Strawberry Commission estimates that around 20% of the farms in the Paharo area have been affected by the floods.
Although it is still too early to estimate the extent of the damage, the Farm Bureau predicts that it will surpass the $330 million in damages caused by the January storms.
The volunteers assisting farmworkers report that many of the donations are from corporations or growers themselves, who want to support their community.
Those who want to help can visit the NBC Bay Area website to find links to donate.
