Mejora tu Vivienda, Worker-Led Housing Improvement Project

For many workers at Pimientos Selectos-Divemex, a pepper-growing farm in Mexico, the condition of their housing is an ongoing source of concern. Homes often show wear over time, requiring repairs that families cannot easily afford. In the rural communities where the farm operates, damaged roofs, unfinished floors, and inadequate sanitation are common challenges. These issues affect not only physical safety but also the sense of stability essential for a home. Since 2021, workers have directed Community Development Funds to address these needs through the Housing Improvements Program, locally known as “Mejora tu Vivienda.” The initiative focuses on practical, incremental upgrades that families can build upon over time. The program was developed and approved by the Fair Trade Committee following discussions about the most pressing household challenges workers face. Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, committee members designed a flexible approach capable of responding to diverse housing priorities. Eligible improvements include reinforced flooring, secure roofing, plastering, interior and exterior painting, bathroom upgrades, roof waterproofing, and the construction of additional rooms. In 2025 alone, workers allocated $54,360 USD from Community Development Funds to continue the program, reaching 139 beneficiaries in those 12 months. For Alicia Ramírez, who has worked at Divemex for seven years, the support addressed an immediate safety concern. Her home’s roof had deteriorated significantly, allowing pests to enter at night. “The roof was so damaged that insects and even scorpions would get inside,” she shared. Through Mejora tu Vivienda, Alicia was able to repair the roof, creating a safer living environment for her family. Rito López, a Divemex worker of 13 years, has participated in three cycles of the program as he steadily builds his family home. He is now nearing the completion of the roofing structure. “We’re already finishing the dalas. We’re getting closer to having a proper, safe home,” he said. The dalas (reinforced concrete tie beams) are structural elements that support the roof, marking a critical step toward a structure more resistant to weather and seismic activity. Together, these investments reflect the workers’ collective decision to prioritize housing as a foundation for family well-being and long-term security.