St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, situated in the southern part of the state along the Gulf of Mexico, is home to approximately 47,789 residents as per the latest estimates.
The parish boasts a diverse cultural tapestry, shaped by its French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Cajun influences. Nonetheless, it grapples with a range of challenges, including issues like poverty, unemployment, limited educational attainment, and disparities in healthcare.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, St. Mary Parish has a poverty rate of 20.5%, surpassing the state average of 18.8% and the national average of 12.6%. This economic hardship affects individuals of all ages, races, and genders across the parish, though certain communities feel its impact more acutely.
Now, let’s delve into the five neighborhoods in St. Mary Parish facing the highest levels of economic hardship, based on median household income data from Data USA:
Franklin
Franklin, located in St. Mary Parish, serves as the parish seat and boasts the highest population, around 6,800 individuals. Unfortunately, it is also the least affluent area within the parish, with a median household income of just $24,483 – less than half of the parish average of $43,097.
The community of Franklin is predominantly comprised of Black or African American residents, making up 64.9% of the population. Additionally, there is a notable percentage of individuals with disabilities, accounting for 19.4%. In terms of employment, the town faces a higher unemployment rate of 11%, nearly twice the parish average of 5.9%.
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Baldwin
Baldwin, situated in the eastern section of the parish, is home to approximately 2,100 residents. The median household income in Baldwin is $26,250, notably lower than the parish average.
In terms of demographics, Baldwin boasts a diverse population, comprising 49.4% White, 46.1% Black or African American, and 3.9% Hispanic or Latino residents. Unfortunately, the town grapples with a substantial poverty rate of 31%, primarily impacting children and seniors.
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Charenton
Charenton, situated in the central area of the parish, is a census-designated place inhabited by approximately 1,900 individuals. The median household income stands at $28,750, a tad above that of Franklin and Baldwin, though it remains under the parish-wide average.
Within Charenton resides the Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana, overseeing both a casino and a museum. The population is primarily composed of Native Americans (58%), with White residents making up 35%, and Black or African American individuals comprising 5%.
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Patterson
Patterson, situated in the western region of the parish, is home to approximately 6,000 residents. The median household income here stands at $30,833, nearly aligning with the state average of $31,794, but it remains below the parish average.
In terms of demographics, Patterson boasts a diverse population. It comprises 50.6% White, 40% Black or African American, 7% Hispanic or Latino, and 1.4% Asian inhabitants. The city experiences a moderate poverty rate of 18%, predominantly affecting young adults and families.
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Berwick
Berwick is a town situated on the opposite bank of the Atchafalaya River from Morgan City, boasting a population of around 4,900 residents. Its median household income is $34,375, slightly surpassing that of Patterson, but it remains below the parish average.
In terms of demographics, Berwick is primarily inhabited by White individuals (82%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (10%), Black or African American (6%), and Asian (1%) residents. The town maintains a relatively low poverty rate of 12%, aligning closely with the national average.
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Final Words
These five communities represent some of the most underprivileged areas in St. Mary Parish, where many individuals face difficulties in making ends meet and accessing essential services and opportunities. Nevertheless, they also possess strengths and resources that can be utilized to enhance their circumstances and potential.
For instance, some of these communities boast strong bonds and cultural customs that can nurture social unity and resilience. Additionally, some hold promise for economic growth and tourism, which can generate employment and income for their inhabitants.
Hence, it is crucial not only to acknowledge the obstacles these communities confront, but also to lend support to their endeavors in overcoming them and realizing their aspirations.
Through collaboration with local leaders, organizations, and residents, we can contribute to transforming these communities into more prosperous and dynamic places to reside and thrive.
