[Guadalajara, Jal. July 30, 2019] Each year, undocumented workers in the United States contribute billions to the U.S. Social Security system. However, when they retire, because of their undocumented status in the U.S. workforce, they will not have access to the federal public benefits of retired workers. Their inability to draw from their contributions, and the fact that they have not contributed enough to the social security system of their home country, are significant factors contributing to their old age poverty.

Our report regarding the difficulties of elderly former undocumented workers in Mexico, as well as the challenges they face as persons without retirement income, was published today by the Mexico Center at the Baker Institute for Public Policy (www.bakerinstitute.org) at Rice University.

The Rhizome Center for Migrants advocates for the rights of deported older persons by raising awareness about their distinct situation and long-term challenges. The organization also provides social and humanitarian support to communities in Western Mexico through home visits and in-person and telephone follow-ups.

To support our community work in Mexico, please consider making a donation here.

To read our full report and recommendations, visit:
www.bakerinstitute.org/research/elderly-undocumented-workers.

About the Baker Institute
The Baker Institute Mexico Center provides policymakers, the public and industry leaders with quality, data-driven analysis of the policy issues that affect Mexico and the United States. The center’s nonpartisan research assists public policy coordination by framing problems, providing policy alternatives and contributing to informed decisions that consider both U.S. and Mexican interests.

In conjunction with actors in both countries, the Mexico Center envisions a future in which coordinated policy decisions maximize benefits for all who live in the North American region.