Meatpacking Town Alive And Growing By Patricia Cohen Summary

In the article, “Immigrants Keep an Iowa Meatpacking Town Alive and Growing” written by Patricia Cohen, there is discussion regarding a small town in northwestern Iowa which experienced a large influx of migrants over a period of time. Cohen interviews a local resident on his thoughts about the migrants moving in and obtaining many of the local jobs. The resident believed it was one of the best thing to happen to their town, as it allowed their town the opportunity to grow.
First, Cohen discusses factors as to why small towns are becoming scarce. Many small towns are forced to collaborate with other towns to make ends meet. In Storm Lake Iowa, the town was experienced shortages of workers at the factories and the factory owners finances indicated employee salaries exceeded production. With migrants working for the factories, there was opportunity to create more jobs for very little pay, thus, allowing the factories to produce products faster at a lower expense.
Second, Cohen brought attention to the fact an increase in migrants moving to small towns contributed to a decrease in the unemployment rate. Many kids who grew up in these small towns, …show more content…
In reference to the refugees, the article states, “they [the refugees] fill most of the grueling, low-paid jobs at the pork, egg and turkey plants; they spend money at local shops, and open restaurants and grocery stores; they fill church pew and home team benches” (pg. 2, Cohen). The refugees support local amenities and do not shy away from the work offered to them. Additionally, the refugees of Storm Lake are proud to live in Storm Lake and to have the opportunity to call it home. Prior to settling in Iowa, many refugees did not have a place to call home. Whereas Americans take for granted what a privilege it is to call the United States home and they do not realize the many opportunities there are to become