Evidence of Diversity

During our visit to the neighborhood of Pacoima, we primarily saw residents of Hispanic & African American descent. As we explored the neighborhood, we observed a large population of Hispanic individuals using facilities within the neighborhood. The local markets, Carnicerias, produce trucks, and restaurants provide products representative of both American and Hispanic cultures. The Boys & Girls Club in Pacoima serves predominantly Hispanic and African American children who come from various neighborhoods to participate in their center.

We learned of the diverse populations residing within the community of Pacoima. Several religious centers and churches marked the existence of diversity among available faith-based groups. The Living Hope Community Church is a progressive faith-based organization focused not only on serving its own group members, but in providing outreach to outside populations in the community, such as schools, the homeless, neighborhood blocks, gang members, and their families. Diversity within the community was also evident within the differing groups of law enforcement and gang affiliation. The enacted gang injunctions in the community of Pacoima represent the strain between law enforcement and those affiliated with gangs. While law enforcement focus on reducing gang activity, the gang members affected by these limitations still reside in the local community. The Summer Night Lights program held in Hubert Humphrey Memorial Park provides an opportunity for multiple populations to gather for recreational and cultural activities. Local families, gang members, city officials, and vendors come together to support a positive effort and peaceful demonstrations in their community.

In the community of Pacoima, levels of economic status among its members are also diverse. The majority of residents in North Hills and Pacoima represent those of a low socio-economic status. Many individuals are either low-income or greatly impoverished. This impoverished population is not only evident within status and housing, but also in services local businesses make available to them such as check cashing locations and pre-paid telephone services. The range of housing within this community are marked by apartment living, Section 8 and project housing, homeowners, and the homeless who might use shelter facilities. Diversity also exists within the ages of the community members. The highest percentage of residents are children and adolescents who were observed playing in the parks and strolling down the streets. However, middle-aged adults account for the second highest age group in the community. Elderly adults also make up a small percentage of the neighborhood, and they were mainly observed in the housing communities.

Several community programs in North Hills and Pacoima offer an array of efforts which focus on serving varying populations. Many programs provide resources for youth in the community, such as the environmental work led by young people at Pacoima Beautiful. The Boys and Girls Club and local Teen Center also provide youth with positive outlets. The Communities in Schools is an outreach program focused on work with gang members, at-risk youth, and their families. MEND (Meet each person with Dignity) is a community effort focused on helping those in-need or those who may be homeless. Penny Lane is an organization which serves children in the foster-care system, families, and emancipated individuals.