The Cornell Farmworker Program seeks recognition for farmworkers’ contributions to society and their acceptance and full participation in local communities.

We envision a state and nation in which farmworkers receive equal protection under law, earn a living wage, live in comfortable housing, are safe and healthy, receive due respect as workers and as individuals, and participate fully in their communities.

Our research, education, and outreach efforts are informed by ongoing needs assessments with farmworkers. Through interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys, farmworkers identify priority areas for collaboration. Together we develop materials and programs that address long-term as well as time-sensitive challenges. In addition to our active group of volunteers, we have a broad network of collaborators with expertise in immigration, labor, health,  education, emergency assistance among other relevant topics. The Cornell Farmworker Program publishes scholarly articles, research and policy briefs, conducts educational programs specifically designed for farmworkers, and actively contributes to print media and radio on farmworker-related topics. Our efforts in response to farmworker needs including current responses (webinars, Spanish language calls, materials support) that are related to concerns about COVID-19 among farmworkers. 

Contact us

Cornell Farmworker Program

275H Warren Hall

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY 14853

Tel: (607) 254-5194

Fax: (607) 255-9710

What We Do

Immigration & Legal Support

Access to pro-bono and low bono immigration and family law attorney and support services include: know your rights workshops, immigration screenings, parental designation forms, standby guardianship, power of attorney, parent permission to travel and health care proxy.

Creating Positive Workplaces

Learn, understand and advocate for healthy, safe workplaces and living arrangements for farmworkers and their families

Learning English

Offer personalized English as a second language classes and tutoring sessions

Highlights & News

Close up shot of a hand holding a mobile phone

News

As COVID-19 bore down on New York state, the Cornell Farmworker Program used mobile phone technology to provide rapid guidance and clear health information in multiple languages to the state’s farmworkers. Now, new federal funding will expand the program and further integrate the initiative with Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE).
  • Cornell Cooperative Extension
  • Department of Global Development
  • School of Integrative Plant Science
Professor packs food for delivery

News

  • Cornell Cooperative Extension
  • Department of Global Development
  • Food

News

Mary Jo Dudley, MRP ’96, an expert in farmworker issues, talks about how the pandemic has underlined the importance of farmworkers, who are crucial to maintaining the country’s food supply. Farmworkers are essential workers, and are particularly...

  • Department of Global Development
  • Agriculture
  • Food
Volunteer with mask

Multimedia

News

  • Department of Global Development
  • Agriculture
  • Global Development

Connect With Us

Farmer collects apples

Learn more about the resources, information and services we offer to farmworkers throughout New York State. Aprende más sobre los recursos, información y servicios que ofrecemos a trabajadores agricolas en Nueva York.

Two women talking to each other in front of a poster

Explore resources and expertise we have available for stakeholders who support the farmworker community.

Farmworker program volunteers sit as a group

Explore opportunities to get involved and support farmworkers through outreach activities, volunteer engagements and internships.