Governor Marina del Pilar Avila affirmed this Friday that a comprehensive anti-poverty strategy has successfully lifted half a million residents out of poverty, positioning Baja California as the state with the lowest poverty rate in Mexico.
The initiative, dubbed the “Corazones” (Hearts) program, has been the flagship effort of her administration, directly benefiting people through expanded healthcare, educational support, and housing aid.
“Through ‘Corazones,’ we have made a positive impact on the well-being of families historically left behind in regions ignored by past governments,” the governor said during her morning press conference.
The state built or rehabilitated seven hospitals and established seven “Well-Being Clinics.” Supported by Mobile Health Units that reach remote areas, these facilities have provided 205,000 people with free medical care, vision exams, glasses, and a consistent, full supply of medicines.
The strategy also strengthened social security, extending labor protection to 115,000 individuals.
Social Aid for 46,000 Young People
To keep young people in school, the administration provided scholarships, free transportation, uniforms, and school supplies to 46,000 students.
In addition, 34,000 people now live in safe, dignified homes through initiatives like “Casa Fuerte” and over 43,000 residents gained access to basic utilities like potable water, drainage, and lighting in neighborhoods neglected for decades thanks to the State Housing Plan.
Brígida Rubio, Director of the State Committee for Development Planning (Coplade), highlighted that the reduction in poverty and inequality is also reflected in rising economic income for residents. She credited the strengthening of social cohesion and improved access to paved roads and transportation networks across various localities as key factors.
Finally, Ricardo Serrano Burgos, State Government Cabinet Coordinator, confirmed that between 2020 and 2024, approximately 478,300 people escaped poverty, slashing the state’s poverty rate from 13.4% to 9.9%. Furthermore, 36,500 residents were lifted out of extreme poverty during the same period.
