SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY, TEXAS COMMUNITY …sacounty/admin/resources/san-augustine...Director of United Way, The Burke Center, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, and Judge Paul White’s

SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY, TEXAS COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Stephen F. Austin State University

School of Social Work

Center for Rural Social Work Research and Development

2013

San Augustine County, Texas - Community Needs Assessment IRB # AY2012-1115

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CONTRIBUTORS TO THE PROJECT

Project Team

Judge Samye Johnson, Brittney Johnson, Sandy Jenkins, Brandi Kolander-Neeb

Emmerentie Oliphant, Becky Price-Mayo, Steve Cooper, Darrel McDonald and Charles Ashton

San Augustine County, Texas Community Needs Assessment Report

Compiled by

Dr. Emmerentie Oliphant in collaboration with Judge Samye Johnson and Ms. Becky Price-Mayo

San Augustine County, Texas Social Services Needs and Community Profile Report

Compiled by Dr. Steve Cooper

San Augustine County, Texas Maps

Compiled by Dr. Darrel McDonald and Charles Ashton

Consultants on Rural Issues

Dr. Kathleen Belanger (Stephen F. Austin State University, School of Social Work)

Ms. Kathleen Spencer (Rural Assistance Center)

San Augustine County Social Services Needs and Community Profile conducted by

BSW Students (SWK 450). Supervised by Dr. Cooper

Adejunoko Adedinsewo, Rachel Berry. Sasha Cruz, Dixie Daniels, Sylvia Dominey, Ava Dueboay,

Marleen Elkins, Dasha Evans, Tracy Fletcher, Teresa Foster, Linda Gonzalez, Alicia Manning,Christie

Mays, Brandi McCrary, Sarah Nerren, Melanie Penland, Kaila Samford, Shanice Talley, Ranajee Thomas,

Lee Ann Willis

Community Needs Assessment Questionnaires, Research Cafés, Populations at Risk Focus Groups

and Interviews conducted by MSW Students (SWK 520 and SWK 530) and Faculty.

Supervised by Dr. Oliphant and Ms. Becky Price-Mayo

Nicole Bordelon, Melissa Burrus, Riana Baley, Rachel Ellis, Timothy Floyd, Donatta Ibe,

Bradley Jackson, Alba Villegas, Shaina Pierson, and Shaina Wareing (MSW Students)

Data Entry and Editing support

Jeremy Fields, Linda Gonzalez, Tyra Holmes, Ricka Mammah, Josephina Mwoleka, Destiny Peters,

Kim Thompson (Data Entry Project Leader) – Graduate Assistants School of Social Work, SFA

Donna Shelton – Administrative Assistant, School of Social Work, SFA


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The San Augustine County Needs Assessment Project is made possible through the commitment and

generosity of Stephen F. Austin State University’s School of Social Work; directed by Dr. Freddie Avant;

Professor of Social Work, Associate Dean and Director.

Our deepest thanks and admiration goes to the San Augustine County Needs Assessment Project Team,

led by Dr. Emmerentie Oliphant; MSW Director and Professor. Dr. Oliphant’s team includes Becky

Price-Mayo; Child Welfare, Professional Development Director & Lecturer, Dr. Darrel McDonald;

Professor of Geospatial Sciences & Geography, and Dr. Steve Cooper; Associate Professor of Social

Work; Associate Dean, College of Liberal and Applied Arts. Also, our special thanks go to Dr. Cooper’s

undergraduate students

(SWK 450), Dr. Oliphant’s School of Social Work graduate students ( SWK 520 and SWK 530) and the

School’s graduate assistants.

We also extend our thanks and gratitude to the regional, state and federal representatives and agencies

that provide social services to our county. Our associates of caring and committed partners include;

including Derek Lee; Aging Services Program Specialist, ACL/ORO/RSC6, Elma Goodwin;

Management & Program Analyst, Immediate Office of the Regional Administrator, ACF, Hernan

Reyes, M.D., Capt.; US Public Health Service Deputy Regional Administrator, Health Resources and

Services Administration, Jonathan Sanchez Leos; Public Health Advisor, Presidential Management

Fellow, SAMHSA, Michael Duffy; Regional Administrator-Region VI, SAMHSA, Leon McCowan;

Regional Administrator-Region VI, Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Philander

Moore; Unit Manager, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Texas Department of State

Health Services, Walter Diggles; Executive Director of Deep East Texas Council of Governments,

George Simon; Executive Director of Tri-County Community Action, Gary Ashcraft; Executive

Director of United Way, The Burke Center, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, and Judge Paul

White’s Angelina Drug Court Team.

We would be remiss if we did not make special mention of Ms. Brandi Kolander-Neeb, Department

Family Protective Services and the San Augustine County Child Protective Board, and to the dozens of

county volunteers, businesses, and local clergy who generously distributed, gathered and completed

questionnaires throughout this project.

Our County team; Brittney Johnson County Project Champion, Sandy Jenkins, County Project

Manager and I will be forever grateful for the gift of working with the remarkable Stephen F. Austin

School of Social Work team. This project, above all else, has given us the tools we need to help the

people we serve. Dr. Oliphant, your caring and passionate heart has made all the difference.

Samye Johnson

San Augustine County Judge


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

San Augustine County in Texas has limited social services and resources to address the needs in

the county. A county needs assessment was conducted to develop a deeper understanding of

social problems, strengths and challenges in the county. San Augustine County partnered with

Stephen F. Austin State University, School of Social Work to plan and implement the

comprehensive needs assessment. A participatory action model was developed to collect multi-

source data. The model enabled county residents to participate in the planning and

implementation of the project. Decisions about the project were made in collaboration with

county residents and leaders. Several interventions resulted from the participatory action.

The comprehensive needs assessment was initiated by the development of a community profile

and assessment of social services needs. The information provided results which were used to

develop and administer a questionnaire on perceptions related to social service needs, social

problems and community challenges and strengths. Several focus groups and interviews were

conducted to collect in-depth information. The results of the county needs assessment clearly

indicated strengths in San Augustine County. A strong sense of community, active residents, a

volunteer network and leaders who care about the community were identified as some of the

strengths. Social problems including substance abuse, unemployment and problems related to

poverty impact the well-being of county residents. The need for social services located in the

county was highlighted by the study.

Several recommendations were made, based on the results. The recommendations mainly

focused on developing and establishing social services in the county. These services should be

based on a one-stop model and a partnership between agencies. An important recommendation

is to ensure that funded agencies are tasked to deliver established services. These social services

should address the needs identified in the study, including substance abuse, mental health, child

and adult protection services. It is also recommended that the strong volunteer network should be

strengthened through ongoing initiatives. The participatory action model provides strategies for

ongoing research and development of programs. It is anticipated that further needs for research

will be identified and social service program initiatives will be developed.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………….….......................1

RATIONALE FOR THE COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT…….….………….……....2

OVERVIEW OF SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY……………………….…….………….….....3

INFORMATION ON THE PARTICAPATORY ACTION MODEL….………….…….……..6

KEY FINDINGS…………………………………………………………………………..........9

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT………………………………...………………...….12

POPULATIONS AT RISK……………………………..………………...……………….…...49

CONCLUSION………...……………………………………..………………………………..62

RECOMMENDATIONS……………………………………..………………………………..62

REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………….…...66

APPENDIXES ………………………………………………………………………...……….68


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LIST OF TABLES

TABLE PAGE(S)

1. SUMMARY OF CENSUS DATA: PROFILE OF GENERAL POPULATION AND

HOUSING CHARACTERISTIC 2010: GENDER AND AGE .…………………………4


HOUSING CHARACTERISTIC 2010: RACE ……………………..…………………...5


HOUSING CHARACTERISTIC 2010: HOUSEHOLDS …………………….…………5

4. INFORMATION ON THE PARTICIPATORY ACTION MODEL…………………..... 8

5. DREAMS FOR SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY …………………………...……………17

6. HOW SAFE DO YOU FEEL WHERE YOU LIVE? DAY…………………...…….......18

7. HOW SAFE DO YOU FEEL WHERE YOU LIVE? NIGHT……………………..……19

8. INTERNET AT HOME.………………………………………........................................20

9. INTERNET AT WORK ………………………………………………………………....20

10. INTERNET AT THE LIBRARY ………………………………………………………..21

11. ACCESS TO PHONE SERVICES………………………………………………..……..21

12. ACCESS TO CELL PHONE………………...…………………………………………..22

13. DEPENDABLE VEHICLE ……………………….....................................................…..22

14. SAMPLE RESPONSES: EMPLOYMENT IN SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY ………..23

15. SAMPLE OF SERVICES IN SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY ……………………..........25

16. PERCEPTION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES………………………...……..27

17. EMERGENCY 911 SERVICES…………………………...........................…………….28

18. FIRE PROTECTION………………………………… …..……………………………..29

19. ANIMAL CONTROL……………………………………………..………………….….29

20. GARBAGE COLLECTION……………………………..………………………………30

21. STORM DRAINAGE……………………………………………………….…………...30

22. LIBRARY SERVICES………………………............................................……………..31

23. AMBULANCE SERVICES ……………………………………………………………..32

24. MEDICAL AND DENTAL SERVICES……………………………..……………….…33

25. MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES…………………………………………………….….34

26. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ………………………………………...……………….34

27. ROADS AND HIGHWAYS …………………...………………………………………..35

28. EDUCATION AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS………………………………………………36

29. SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES……………………………………………………..37

30. CHILD CARE SERVICES………………………………………………………………38

31. YOUTH PROGRAMS AND RECREATION …………………………………………..39

32. SERVICES TO THE ELDERLY ………………….…………………………………40

33. GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE…………………………………………………….….40

34. COUNSELING…………………………………………………………………….…….41

35. FOOD PANTRIES ………………………………………………………………………42

36. CONDITION OF HOUSES ……………………………………………………………..43


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37. COST OF HOUSING……………………………….…………………………………...44

38. VANDALISM ……………………………………………………………………….......44

39. BURGLARIES ………………………………..……………………………………...….45

40. FAMILY VIOLENCE …………………………………………………………..……….45

41. ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT AND EXPLOITATION……………………..…………...46

42. PHYSICAL ASSAULT ………………………………………………………………….46

43. DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE …………………………………………….…..…….47

44. DRUG MANUFACTURING ………………………………………………..…………..48

45. DRUG DEALING …………………………………………………………………….....48

46. GANGS.………………………………………………………………………………….49

47. CONFIRMED CPS VICTIMS AND INVESTIGATIONS .………….............................50

48. CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY..………………...51

49. CPS DATA COMPARISONS BETWEEN SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY AND

TEXAS.…..........................................................................................................................52

50. SAMPLE DEMOGRAPHICS …………………………….…..........................................57


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LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURES PAGE

1. FLOWCHART - SAN AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

MODEL..............................................................................................................................7

2. PIE CHART 1 - AGE DISTRIBUTION OF PARTICIPANTS…………………………13

3. PIE CHART 2 -NUMBER OF YEARS LIVING IN SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY ….14


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1. INTRODUCTION

San Augustine County is experiencing the challenges of rural East Texas. Macro-level

community issues such as poverty, unemployment and lack of services severely impact the

quality of life and well-being of the county residents. Under the direction of County Judge

Samye Johnson, a comprehensive county needs assessment was designed and implemented to

explore these realities. A project team including county officials, the School of Social Work and

Center for Rural Social Work Research Development, Stephen F. Austin State University,

county residents and service providers planned and implemented the comprehensive community

needs assessment from January 2012 to November 2013. The purpose was to conduct a

community needs assessment in San Augustine County to explore the needs for services in the

county. It is envisioned that the results from the project will provide specific information which

will enable county officials and other role-players to facilitate grant writing efforts in order to

provide services and resources to the county residents. In addition, the results will be used to

develop programs specific to the needs of the county. For this purpose it was important to listen

to the voices of the community. The project team ensured that the voices were heard through

inclusion of county residents in the initial design, planning and implementation of the project. A

participatory action model was designed and implemented to ensure that the process and results

reflect the perceptions of the community members.

The overall objectives of the community needs assessment were:

1. To conduct a needs assessment focusing on social services, community dynamics, social

issues and a health and human services profile

2. To collect data from county residents and service providers on their perceptions of the

county including social services, problems, community dynamics, strengths and

challenges

3. To analyze existing census data in order to describe demographics, strengths, challenges

and at risk populations

4. To provide recommendations towards interventions and further research.


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This report provides an overview of the community needs assessment, a description of the

participatory action model which was used to conduct the comprehensive needs assessment, a

discussion of the findings and recommendations.

2. RATIONALE FOR THE COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

San Augustine County has limited resources and social services referrals have to be made to

other counties. According to Judge Johnson federal and/or state social services agencies

operating in the county are extremely limited. Due to the lack of presence in the county, residents

are not aware of the availability of services. Poverty and unemployment impact the quality of

life of county residents. Social problems such as substance abuse, elderly abuse/neglect,

domestic violence and mental health problems result in increased risk of county residents.

Although county residents and leaders are aware of the problems, it has become increasingly

important to provide evidence.

There is limited knowledge available regarding existing resources. It is assumed that there are

resources available through churches and volunteer agencies. These resources are not well

known and this limits referrals to the few existing services.

As part of the initial design of the county needs assessment the project team formulated several

questions. These questions were addressed in the comprehensive needs assessment:

What matters to the county residents? In other words what is important to county

residents?

How do county residents perceive the current strengths, challenges and problems in the

county?

What are the most important problems and needs county residents think should be

addressed?

What services exist and what is the quality of those services?

The needs assessment enables the county to identify specific needs for the development of


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programs. A comprehensive community profile provides an overview on existing strengths and

challenges, while the community needs assessment questionnaire (CNAQ) provides additional

in-depth information on needs. The data will be used to apply for grants that will serve the

county.

3. OVERVIEW OF SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY

Section written by Dr. Kathleen Belanger

San Augustine County has a population of 8,865 (US Department of Commerce, 2012a).

Residents of San Augustine County commute to larger cities such as Nacogdoches, which is

located 35 miles west in Nacogdoches County, for employment, recreation and services.

Its county seat, the city of San Augustine, is located on the 300 year old Camino Real (King’s

Highway) trading route that connected Natchitoches, Louisiana with Mexico by way of

Nacogdoches and San Antonio, Texas. The county is considered rural by all definitions,

considered non-core, with a rural urban commuting area code of 10, rural urban continuum code

of 9, and urban influence code of 10, with 16.7 persons per square mile compared with 96.3 in

Texas and 87.4 for the US (Rural Assistance Center, 2012).

In terms of population demographics, the county has a lower percentage of white non-Hispanic

persons compared with Texas and the US (69% vs. 45% for Texas and 63% for the US), a lower

percentage of Hispanic/Latinos (7% vs. 38% for Texas and 17% for the US), and a higher

percentage of African Americans (23% vs. 12% for Texas and 13% for the US) (US Department

of Commerce, 2012a, b).

The population also tends to be older, with 23% 65 years or older, compared with 11% for Texas

and 13% for the US. The county has approximately twice the poverty rate and half the median

income compared with both Texas and the US. The median household income for 2006 – 2010

was $25,974, compared with $49,646 for Texas and $51,914 for the US, and the percentage of

persons living below poverty for 2006-2010 was 27% compared with 17% for Texas and 14%

for the US. Residents tend to own their own homes, with homeownership rates for 2006 – 2010

of 79% compared with 65% for Texas and 67% for the US (US Department of Commerce,

2012a, b).


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According to City-County Data Book (2012), most residents (58% compared with 50% for the

US) are affiliated with a religious congregation. Of those affiliated with a religious

congregation, most are Baptist: 40% affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and 15%

affiliated with the Baptist Missionary Association of America. Twelve percent are affiliated with

the Catholic Church, 11% with Independent Associations, and Unaffiliated Churches Landmark

Missionary Baptist, and 22% “other”.

There is one grocery store, five convenience stores that sell gas, and one that does not. Most of

the agricultural market value in the county is from livestock, poultry and their products (96%),

with 95% of the farms operated by a family or individual (City-County Data Book, 2012). As

indicated in the introduction, services in the county are limited and community members have to

travel to Center (20.05 miles), Lufkin (53 miles) and Nacogdoches (35 miles) and Many,

Louisiana (45 miles) for social services. According to some service providers (for example

Burke Center and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council (ADAC), they come to San Augustine

when they receive referrals. According to U.S. Census Bureau (2010) the following are

demographic profile data for San Augustine County, Texas.

Table 1: Summary of Census Data: Profile of General Population and Housing

Characteristic 2010: Gender and Age

Residents

Number Percentage

Total Population (males) = 4,360, (females) 4,505

8,865

100.0%

Population Median Age

47.1

Male Median Age

45.9

Female Median Age

48.1

85 years and over (smallest age group)

273

3.1%

50 to 54 years (largest age group)

680

7.7%

Males (largest age group) 50 to 54 years

350

3.9%

Females (largest age group) 45 to 49 years

345

3.9%


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Characteristic 2010: Race

Residents

Number Percent

One Race

8,742

98.6%

Black or African American

2,016

22.7%

White

6,375

71.9%

Asian

35

0.4%

Hispanic or Latino (of any race)

532

6.0%


Characteristic 2010: Households

Residents Number

Percent

Institutionalized Population

- Male

- Female

223

84

139

2.5%

0.9%

1.6%

In Households

8,642

97.5%

Head of Household

3,625

40.9%

Total Households

3,625

100%

Family Households

- with own children under 18 years

- husband and wife family

2,477

797

1,808

68.3%

22.0%

49.9%

Householder Living Alone

- male

- 65 and over

- female

- 65 and over

1,040

496

171

544

367

28.7%

13.7%

4.7%

15.0%

10.1%


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4. INFORMATION ON THE PARTICIPATORY ACTION MODEL

A Participatory Action Model (PAR) was designed to conduct the needs assessment. PAR

implies that county members have ownership of the needs assessment and results. PAR is a

structured process that allows for flexibility based on the input of the community. Their input

was of utmost importance for the success of the project. The principles of PAR formed the basis

of the needs assessment. The participatory action implies that the participants (residents and

service providers) are not researched, but are partners in the project. Project implementation is

based on cooperative actions and collaboration with county residents. Residents participated in

the planning of the project, design and development of the CNAQ, focus groups and protocol

development for interviews. Data collection started in March 2012 and ended in November 2013.

The project team conducted data verification of the data collected by including the county

residents and key informants from June to November 2013. The participatory action model also

focused on empowerment, sustainability and capacity building – the needs assessment

empowered county residents to become involved in developing services and resources.

Transparency of the process was ensured through involving county residents in decision-making

processes and recommendations for services. County residents were included in discussions and

validation of the data. The purpose of participatory action is to empower communities. The

cyclic nature of the model implies that research and intervention are parallel processes. Residents

were empowered to bring about change in the county. The PAR model was used to collect multi-

source and multi-level data, using the following methods:

Roundtable Discussions

Research Cafés

Community Needs Assessment Questionnaire (CNAQ)

Focus Groups

Interviews

Census Data and Web-based information

Published Data


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Reflection of the process and validation of data took place on an ongoing basis during the project

implementation.

The following flowchart provides information about the process of the community needs assessment as

well as the different sources of data.

Figure 1 : Flowchart - San Augustine Community Needs Assessment Model

Multi-source data was important as it provided the opportunity to triangulate information. More

than one source of data verified the importance of the responses. Multi-level sources were significant

as it ensured that all county residents had an opportunity to participate in the needs assessment.

Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect and analyze data. This included interviews,

questionnaires, focus groups and research cafés. The PAR model is cyclic in nature and interventions

developed as data was generated.


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New research initiatives also developed as part of various phases of the needs assessment. Sources

of data include county residents, service providers, maps, census data, Internet sources and the

CNAQ.

Table 4: Information on the Participatory Action Model

Method Population Sample Focus

Community Profile

Social Services Needs

Assessment

Roundtable Discussions

Interviews

Key Informants

Community

Leaders

Service Providers

N = 200 Social Services Needs

Strengths

Barriers

Demographic Information

Research Cafés Volunteers

Community

members

N=80

5 Cafés

Strengths

Challenges

Dreams for the county

Community Needs

Assessment Questionnaire

(CNAQ)

Community

members

N=504 Services

Problems

Demographic information

Focus groups Community

members

N=30

5 Focus

groups

Elderly

Youth

Quality of life

Experiences living in San Augustine

County

Interviews Residents Community

members

N = 10 Quality of life

Interviews

Service Providers

Service providers N=34

Type of services

Frequency and percentage of time in

San Augustine County

Barriers to care

A community profile was developed by Dr. Cooper and a group of undergraduate social work

students. This research provided the information for the development of the community needs

assessment questionnaire (CNAQ). The preliminary data was used to develop initial themes to be


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addressed in the questionnaire. The community profile provides comprehensive information on

the needs as well as the available services. The community profile focuses on demographic

information, values, strengths and limitations. It includes a social issues and health and human

services profile. The social issues include information on poverty, child abuse, health care and

behavioral health care, and the health and human services profile focuses on existing resources

and access to these resources.

The CNAQ focuses on the perceptions of county residents regarding services, infrastructure and

problems in the county. In addition, this section of the research provides information about the

strengths, dreams, challenges, and quality of life issues perceived by the residents.

While collecting information, specific populations at risk were identified. In order to develop a

better understanding of these populations, focus groups and interviews were conducted in order

to gain a better understanding of the quality of life of these residents.

5. KEY FINDINGS

1. At the time when the needs assessment was initiated, San Augustine County was

experiencing a lack of social services. The community profile and the CNAQ both

indicate that services vital to the quality of life in the county are not available. Health

and human services are limited and are located within other counties such as Angelina

and Nacogdoches. Cities in these counties where services are located are a minimum of a

40 minute drive away;

2. Existing services such as the County Sheriff’s Office and the San Augustine County

Court often have to deal with emergencies which should be referred to social services;

3. Specific populations in San Augustine County are at risk. Due to the lack of services,

inaccessibility to services outside of the county and the limited resources, elderly county

members experience difficulties and challenges in accessing important services. Elderly

county residents living in the assisted living facilities have access to services and

experience positive quality of life. However, elderly residents who live on their own are

isolated and do not have easy access to resources. Elderly individuals living in remote

areas find it impossible to access basic resources such as medical services and food;


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4. Specific problems are prioritized as urgent. These problems need attention through

comprehensive social services. Substance abuse is perceived by county residents as the

problem with the highest priority. The problem is not only limited to substance abuse, but

extends to drug manufacturing and dealing. County officials, service providers outside of

the county, volunteers and county leaders validated the importance of addressing

substance abuse in the county;

5. San Augustine County residents are experiencing different levels of poverty. Residents

identified unemployment as one of the barriers to quality of life. Underemployment

implies that residents are working, but that the income is not adequate to make a living.

Local work opportunities are limited and residents have to travel outside of the county for

work. This impacts the financial stability of households as well as the quality of life of

families and individuals. Residents have to drive to towns in other counties (Center,

Lufkin and Nacogdoches) for employment. It adds additional stress on families and

individuals in terms of financial and time resources;

6. From the published data on child welfare issues it is evident that San Augustine County

children are not receiving resources and services at a level that is consistent with state

averages. While the number of completed investigations and confirmed victims of child

abuse and neglect are comparable to the state rate, children in San Augustine County

receive less family preservation and out of home services (see Table 59 for complete

data). When considering characteristics of families and children, as well as the rural

setting, it is very likely that there is a considerably higher incidence of abuse and neglect

than what is reported. Focus groups of community leaders and service providers also

voiced concerns that child neglect and abuse are not being reported and that children of

all ages need better protection. In addition, social workers and investigators are not

located in the county and must travel to investigate the cases. It is important to have

social workers and child protection workers with offices in the county to raise awareness

of child abuse and to address the need for increased investigations and services. The

cyclic nature of poverty, substance abuse, unemployment, and isolation can impact the

quality of life and the level of safety of children;

7. A public transportation system does not exist at the time of this study. Although many

county residents report they have their own vehicles, it is also evident that many residents

do not have access to any form of transportation. These residents have to depend on their


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family, significant others and volunteers for transportation. Residents in rural areas and

specifically the elderly and children are more vulnerable because of inaccessibility to

transportation. County members identified a bus system as a solution to the current

transportation problems;

8. Social problems in San Augustine County are complex and many variables impact the

severity of the problems. Poverty, unemployment, lack of services, isolation of individual

residents and the existence of social problems such as substance abuse, impact quality of

life in the community. Individual factors such as language is a barrier to care;

9. County residents voice a need for improvement in addition to the need to develop a

structure for social services where community members can come together. A

recreational center for youth, community center or a central place where support services

can be delivered;

10. Child care is considered a priority need. This will enable parents to work. From the data

collected on family structure it is evident that 56.6% of families are single parents. Child

care will enable parents to work outside of the county if needed;

11. Infrastructure in the county is in need of improvement. Garbage collection is problematic

as is typical across East Texas. In some places there is no formal garbage collection. It is

assumed that residents burn garbage which is a hazard for the environment. There is

limited animal control in the county and animals are often found on the roads;

12. Roads are in a good condition, providing accessibility to the cities of San Augustine and

Broaddus as well as surrounding counties;

13. Young adults in San Augustine County are in need of jobs and training. County residents

want training opportunities to be available within the county;

14. San Augustine County is strong in terms of social capital. County officials and residents

are positive about bringing about change. Leadership is willing and committed to bring

about change. Although services are located outside of the county, several support groups

and informal services exist through the volunteering efforts of residents.


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6. COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

The community needs assessment provides evidence of strengths, limitations and barriers related

to services. Key findings highlight the realities specific to macro-, mezzo- and micro-level

problems, services, barriers to change, challenges and strengths in the community. From the

study it is evident that San Augustine County does not have enough resources to address the

problems and lack of services in the community.

The Community Needs Assessments Questionnaire (CNAQ) was completed by 504 residents

from San Augustine County. In addition, the research cafés including 80 participants were

conducted. The information provided in this section includes all information obtained from the

CNAQ and the research cafés with volunteers and community members. These sources of data

provided in-depth information on the specific problems experiences by residents and the reality

of lack of services.

The following demographic information is specific to the CNAQ. It provides information on the

age, gender, income, number of years living in San Augustine County, education, status of

employment and major wage earner type of employment.

6.1 Demographic Information: Community Needs Assessment Questionnaire (CNAQ)

Age

Participants 18 years and older completed the CNAQ. The included pie chart provides

information on the age distribution. 11.7% is in the age group 18-29, 25.7% between 30 and 49,

25.9% is between 50 and 64, and 32.5% are 64 and older. 3.9% of the participants did not answer

the question on age. It is important to note that 58.4% of the participants are 50 and older.

Younger adults over 18 were included in the study through focus groups and interviews to ensure

representation.


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Pie Chart 1: Age Distribution of Participants

Pie Chart 1: Age Distribution of Participants

Gender

In terms of gender the majority of participants were female (59.5%) and 31.9% were males.

8.5% of the responses were either unclear or missing.

Income

The income distribution varied amongst participants. 14.2% of the participants earn less than

$10,000 per year, 26.2% between $10,000 and $19,999; 16.07% between $20,000 and $29,999

12.1% earn $30,000 - $39,999, 3.1% earn $40,000 - $49,999, 5.5% $50, 000 - $59,999,

14.2% earn $60,000 and more. 13.2% of the participants did not answer the question. From

this it is evident that most of the participants earn less than $20,000 or above $60,000.


14

Number of Years Living in San Augustine County

The following pie chart provides information about how long participants have lived in San

Augustine County. Of the 504 participants, 70.6% lived in the county more than 10 years, 7.7%

between 5 and 10 years and 7.7% less than 5 years. 13.8% did not answer the question.

Pie Chart 2: Number of Years Living in San Augustine County

Education

In terms of education there were a range of responses. 7.4% has a graduate degree, 14.6% is a

college graduate, 27.1% has some college level education but did not complete a college degree,

and 34.5% has a high school certificate.

Number of Years Living in San Augustine County


15

Status of Employment

A majority of the participants indicated they are employed (38.6%), 8.1% are self-employed

30.7% are unemployed, and 22.4% did not provide an answer. 24.6% of the participants are

retired.

Major Wage Earner Type of Employment

The majority (24.6%) of the participants are retired, 9.1% works in finance, insurance and public

utilities, 6.9% in oil and gas companies, 7.9% in education, 4.3% in government/state, 4.1% in

logging and timber, 3.3% in retail and wholesale, 3.1% in construction. 16.2% did not answer

the question.

6.2 Quality of Life in San Augustine County

Data from the CNAQ and research cafés indicate that San Augustine County residents have

positive experiences about their community and county. During the information gathering the

residents reflected on the strengths of the community and how the strengths bring them together.

These positive experiences and perception of strengths clearly influence their perceptions about

the problems the community is facing. Residents provided feedback that they experience a sense

of collectiveness and collaboration in the county. This impacts the resident’s drive to enhance

and change the community. The quality of life that the residents are experiencing allows for

opportunities to raise families in a peaceful and quiet environment. It is evident that county

residents feel that there is a need to improve and that the strengths of the county will enable them

to bring about effective change.

The following themes support the statement that the residents experience quality of life:

Churches provide support to community members. Churches reach out to their members

who are in need by providing resources such as transportation and food services to elderly

residents. The churches provide stability and a sense of community to residents. Several

residents mentioned that their families have been living in San Augustine County for

generations and they have been members of a specific church for many years. It is


16

evident that churches are committed to invest in the community and to participate in

change.

Recreational activities such as hunting and fishing provide opportunities for residents.

Several retired residents indicated that they moved to San Augustine County because of the

opportunity to be close to nature. Participants of the focus groups for young adults

indicated that they experience these recreational activities as positive and would like to see

more of these activities specifically for children and young adults.

The peaceful and quiet environment of the county draws families and individuals to move

to and stay in the county. Even though some family members have to drive to towns in

other counties, they prefer living in a peaceful environment.

County and city leadership is considered positive and county residents mentioned that they

feel leaders are acting in the county’s best interest. Residents from Broaddus and San

Augustine were of the opinion that the city leadership is effective.

A strong volunteer base exists in the county. The volunteers are passionate about bringing

services to the county and ensuring that the needs of populations at risk are met.

Volunteers voiced their concerns about residents who live in isolated areas. They also

shared that they are passionate about volunteering. One of the comments was “we have

diverse, talented and resourceful volunteers”

A desire for community improvement exists amongst residents of the county. Although

some focus group members identified resistance to change, overall there is a positive

attitude towards improvement and specifically about addressing the barriers towards

service delivery.

During the research cafés, participants were asked about their dreams for San Augustine County.

A discussion about dreams enabled county residents to focus on the positive issues they

experience. The dreams for the county also emphasized the fact that the county residents are

willing to work towards making changes in the community.

Table 5 gives a list of the priority issues identified when the dreams for the county were shared.


17

Table 5: Dreams for San Augustine County

Responses Research Cafés Summary

What are your dreams for San Augustine County?

Recreational family park

Community garden

Economic and business growth

Drug free community

Rise in educational levels

Improved infrastructure

Increase in job opportunities

Opportunities for youth to stay in county

Tourism development

A dependable transportation system

Better resources for those in need of care

Mental health services

Enhancement of quality of medical services

Improvement of educational facilities

The list is not in priority order.

Quality of life is impacted by many factors including how safe community residents feel in the

community, accessibility to resources such as cell phones, landlines and dependable vehicles.

These resources can minimize risk and allow them to contact service providers in an emergency

situation. Accessibility to services is important, because residents need to be able to reach

services in order to make the best use of it.

Why do people live in San Augustine County?

Overall responses in the CNAQ as well as the interviews and focus groups, indicated that they live

in San Augustine County because it is beneficial to their quality of life. It is evident that the small

town atmosphere in San Augustine and Broaddus is appealing to residents. San Augustine county

residents are considered as friendly and they have strong values. The environment is quiet and

residents feel that they live in a relaxed community. In terms of benefits to living in San


18

Augustine County the rural atmosphere plays an important role. The climate provides multiple

opportunities for recreational activities. Many of the residents indicated that they are able to hunt

and fish in a quiet environment. In addition, being able to know their neighbors is an important

part of building connections with the community. Rural country living and good relationships with

neighbors are the most important social factors.

Even though resources are not always available, county residents consider themselves fortunate.

As part of the CNAQ, participants were asked what three things do they like most about living in

San Augustine County. According to the responses the three most identified were churches, rural

small town atmosphere and strong relationships between the people. Participants were also asked

what the three issues they are struggling with most. The responses were financial issues, services

and resources.

Safety: Day

It is evident that San Augustine County is considered as safe. 33.1% of the participants

perceive the county as very safe during the day, while 47.4% consider it as safe. It

accounts for 80.5% of the participants. Only 3.4% indicated they consider it unsafe, 2%

very unsafe and 7.5% were undecided.

Table 6: How safe do you feel where you live? Day

Frequency Percent Valid Percent

Cumulative

Percent

Valid Very Safe 167 33.1 33.1 33.1

Safe 239 47.4 47.4 80.6

Undecided 38 7.5 7.5 88.1

Unsafe 17 3.4 3.4 91.5

Very Unsafe 10 2.0 2.0 93.5

Missing 33 6.5 6.5 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


19

Safety: Night

44.8% of the participants indicated they perceive it as safe and 30% as very safe. This

accounts for 74.8% of the community needs assessment participants. 5.4% indicated they

feel it is unsafe and 2.8% it is very unsafe. 9.7% were undecided.

Table 7: How safe do you feel where you live? Night


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Very safe 151 30.0 30.0 30.0

Safe 226 44.8 44.8 74.8

Undecided 49 9.7 9.7 84.5

Unsafe 27 5.4 5.4 89.9

Very Unsafe 14 2.8 2.8 92.7

Missing 37 7.3 7.3 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Focus groups and interviews validated that the safety within the county is one of the

reasons why residents move back to the county.

Accessibility

Accessibility to certain resources is an important part of quality of life. Information on access to

Internet services, library services, cell phone, landline and a dependable vehicle was collected.

Residents who live in wooded areas are isolated because of inaccessibility to Internet. Some

residents live in isolated houses that are not in livable conditions. Numbers reflected in the tables

specific to the internet may be misleading. This is due to the high number of retirees who

completed the survey.


20

Internet at Home

A high number of participants have Internet at home – 61.5%, while 36.1 % do not have

it at home.

Table 8: Internet at Home


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 310 61.5 61.5 61.5

No 182 36.1 36.1 97.6

Missing 12 2.4 2.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Internet at Work

According to the participants, most of them do not have Internet access at work (39.5%).

Of the participants, 38.1% do have access to Internet at work. However, 22.4% did not

answer the question. Since 24.6% of the CNAQ participants are retired it is assumed that

this is the reason for the high number of missing answers.

Table 9: Internet at Work


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 192 38.1 38.1 38.1

No 199 39.5 39.5 77.6

Missing 113 22.4 22.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Internet at the Library

73% of participants have access to Internet at the library. 13.7% said they did not have

access and a high number of participants did not respond (13.3%). During research cafés,

some of the participants explained that it is not a problem if they do not have Internet at

home, because it is available at the library. However, these reports may not take into

account the southern part of the county since Broaddus does not have a public library.


21

This area also is reported to have a large elderly population due to popular lakeshore lots

for retirees.

Table 10: Internet at the Library


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 368 73.0 73.0 73.0

No 69 13.7 13.7 86.7

Missing 67 13.3 13.3 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Access to Phone Services

Phone services are important in case of an emergency. A high number of participants

(71.4%) have access to a landline. 24.6% do not have access to a landline and 20

participants (4.0%) did not provide a response. Even though county residents have a

landline, it does not mean service is connected. It is important for services to be

connected, especially for elderly residents living in isolated areas.

Table 11: Access to Phone Services


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 360 71.4 71.4 71.4

No 124 24.6 24.6 96.0

Missing 20 4.0 4.0 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Access to Cell Phone

Most San Augustine county residents have access to cell phone services. 85.3% of the

participants indicated they have access to cell phones and 12.9% indicated they do not

have access.


22

Table 12: Access to Cell Phone


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 430 85.3 85.3 85.3

No 65 12.9 12.9 98.2

Missing 9 1.8 1.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

It is important to note that accessibility to cell phones or a landline does not necessary

constitutes availability. For example a person may have a landline or cell phone but due

to financial constraints they do not have service.

Dependable Vehicle

A high percentage (77.6%) indicated they have access to a dependable vehicle, while

11.7% indicated they do not have access. 54 (10.7%) did not answer the question.

Table 13: Dependable Vehicle


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 391 77.6 77.6 77.6

No 59 11.7 11.7 89.3

Missing 54 10.7 10.7 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

The focus of the question was on a dependable vehicle, in trying to assess if they have

accessibility to a means of transportation. A dependable vehicle must be maintained and

participants voiced their concerns about the cost of gas, insurance and new/renewed

licenses. The County Sheriff is concerned about the high number of unlicensed drivers.

This is due in part to the fact that there is not a Texas Department of Public Safety office

in the County.

Service providers and county residents were also of the opinion that the lack of driver’s

education classes contributes to the problem. In an interview with a service provider it


23

was mentioned that one of the medical centers provide transport for dialysis patients to

the center, but not back home. The residents experienced this service as helpful.

6.3 Employment in San Augustine County

The research cafés and focus groups allowed county residents to voice the need for job creation

and retention in the county. The CNAQ provides specific information related to jobs in terms of

resources to support jobs, retention, underemployment and unemployment. County residents

voiced their frustration with barriers to retain their jobs. Though some of the barriers are on an

individual level, macro-level issues also contribute to employment problems. For example,

inaccessibility to jobs (opportunities are in bordering counties), the lack of public transport,

limited support systems such as child care and the lack of training in the county impacts job

retention of individuals. County residents feel that the creation of jobs is not enough but that

there needs to be a support system to mentor and motivate individuals to retain their jobs.

Table 14: Sample Responses Employment in San Augustine County

Sample Responses: Employment

“ I have a job but it doesn’t have much of a future” CNAQ, female age 42

“ And then if you do find it, then pretty much it’s going to take over your entire salary

because the pay is so low” Focus group – youth between ages 18 – 30, Broaddus

“Jobs….So, I think that’s a big problem for our young families.” Focus group – youth

between ages 18 – 30, Broaddus

“Training for jobs. There’s no training at all.” Focus group – youth between ages 18

– 30, San Augustine

“There are not enough opportunities for young people to find work…” CNAQ, female

age 57

“ More jobs for young people” Research cafés - volunteer


24

6.4 Services

State agencies are located in other counties, which creates transportation problems for residents,

limits accessibility of services and impacts reporting of cases such as abuse of children, mental

disabilities and exploitation of the elderly. The fact that there is limited reporting on specific

social problems does not imply that the problems do not exists. It rather suggests that because of

the inaccessibility of services and lack of knowledge thereof, the county residents are hesitant to

report problems. It is also important to note that social service or mental health issues are often

referred to the County Judge’s office and the County Sheriff’s office.

Lack of accessibility to services impacts quality of life. County residents’ perceptions on

accessibility and quality of life provide important information on the lack of services in all areas

of the county. Some community residents live in isolation and may in addition experience

transportation problems. The inaccessibility and lack of transportation puts isolated community

residents at risk for issues such as substance abuse, child or elder abuse, mental health and

health care.

Specific barriers in the community impact the accessibility to services. Even though agencies

outside the county are available to deliver services, it is evident that there is a lack of available

services in the county. The mere existence of services in a bordering county does not imply that

services are available to county residents. For example, a resident who needs immediate care in

terms of mental health has to contact an agency in Lufkin for help. Since Lufkin is 53 miles

from San Augustine and 34 miles from Broaddus, it means that immediate follow-up to a crisis-

situation is not always possible. Some services are available for limited times during the week.

Service providers were interviewed in order to obtain information on the target population they

serve; the percentage or frequency of time the service is available in the county; and the barriers

to care. The following table provides a sample of services and the barriers to implementing the

services. The San Augustine County Resource Guide (2013) was developed by the County

Judge’s office to provide information on all services available to the county. These services are

not necessarily located within the county.


25

The following table provides a sample overview of services availability to county residents. Most

of the services are located in bordering counties.

Table 15: Sample of Services in San Augustine County

Agency Services

Provided

Target

Population

Percentage

or Time

Spent in

San

Augustine

Referral

Information

Barriers to Service

in San Augustine

Deep East

Texas Council

of

Governments

(DETCOG)

Area Agency

on Aging

Serves 12

counties.

Provides in home

support services.

Advocates for

clients.

Serves

individuals

60 years and

older.

In San

Augustine

on an as

needed

basis.

Receives referrals

from Adult

Protection

Services,

hospitals, and

individuals who

are in need of

care.

Not enough local

contractors to provide

full time services in

San Augustine

County

DETCOG

Services to

Youth at Risk

(STAR)

Program

Provides crisis

intervention.

Training in

parenting skills.

Ages 0-17 In San

Augustine

once a week

and as

needed.

Receives referrals

from schools, law

enforcement,

CPS, parents, and

courts

Access to parents

Project

HOPE

GED Prep

Classes

Adult Driver's

Education

Financial Aid

Scholarship

assistance

ESL (English as

a Second

Language)

Parent

Awareness

Seminars

PSAT/SAT/ACT

/THEA/TAKS/S

TAAR tutoring

JOB Corps

Workforce

seminars

Motivational

Speakers

Career training

College/job fairs

Recreational

tournaments

Health fair

Business

services

Adults Located in

San

Augustine

Walk-in’s

Schools

Funding,

transportation,

substance abuse,

lack of job

opportunities in San

Augustine.


26

Women’s

Shelter of

East Texas

Assists women

who need

protection from

domestic violent

situations

Victims of

domestic

violence

In San

Augustine

once a

week.

Lone Star Legal

Aid

Privacy due to not

having an office,

transportation,

employment in San

Augustine County

Department

of Family and

Protective

Services

Child protective

services

Adult protective

services

Child care

licensing

Adoption and

foster care

Children and

adults

In San

Augustine

as needed,

no office

located in

San

Augustine

Schools, Citizens,

Doctors, Police

Transportation

No Health and

Human Services

offices.

Burke Center Mental Health

Development

Disabilities

Early Childhood

Intervention

Adults and

children

Monday-

Friday as

needed in

San

Augustine

County.

Emergency

services

Law enforcement,

hospitals, doctor’s

offices,

schools

Walk-ins

Rural challenges,

transportation,

substance abuse

problems, funding

and accessibility in

San Augustine

County

Care and

Share

Food and

clothing

Individual

and families

with physical,

spiritual,

emotional,

material,

social and

educational

needs.

Food pantry

East Texas

Food Bank

Located in

San

Augustine

County

Tuesday,

Wednesday,

Thursday

mornings

Walk-ins

Appointments

Funding

Heartbeat

Pregnancy

Testing,

ultrasounds,

baby items,

parenting

classes, adoption

referrals.

Pregnant

women

Not present

in San

Augustine

Walk-ins Transportation

funding

From the information provided by service providers it is evident that services in San Augustine

are irregular, not frequent enough to address the needs and in some situations not accessible to

the county residents. The table shows that services are mostly available as needed. It is important

to note that during the interviews the service providers indicated that they understand the need to

expand services in San Augustine County, but that specific barriers such as transportation,

funding and resources to support services are barriers. Funding was identified as the most

important factor impacting service delivery. The San Augustine County Resource Guide (2013)


27

provides extensive information on available resources in the county. The following section

focuses on county residents’ perceptions of services.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement in San Augustine County is perceived as good. According to the

CNAQ, 35.7% of the county residents consider the law enforcement as good and 13.3 %

rated it as excellent. 29.6% rated it as fair, while 15.9% perceived is as poor.

In addition, during research cafés with community residents they indicated that the law

enforcement was dependable and that they were satisfied with it. Service providers also

indicated that the County Sheriff’s office has to deal with problems related to mental

health and social problems. Emergency situations are often referred to the County

Sheriff’s Office.

Table 16: Perception of Law Enforcement Services

Frequency Percent

Valid

Percent

Cumulative

Percent

Valid Excellent 67 13.3 13.3 13.3

Good 180 35.7 35.7 49.0

Fair 149 29.6 29.6 78.6

Poor 80 15.9 15.9 94.4

Do Not

Know 16 3.2 3.2 97.6

Missing 12 2.4 2.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


28

Emergency 911 Service

Emergency services in San Augustine county is mostly rated as good to fair. 29.6% of

the participants rated services as good, while 23.6% rated it as fair. 12.1% rated it as

excellent and 16.7% rated it as poor. 14.7% indicated that they did not know.

Table 17 : Emergency 911 Services

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent


Good 149 29.6 29.6 41.7

Fair 119 23.6 23.6 65.3

Poor 84 16.7 16.7 81.9

Do Not Know 74 14.7 14.7 96.6

Missing 17 3.4 3.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Fire Protection

FFire protection in the county was rated as good (31.9%) , excellent (19.8%) and fair

((19%). 16.1 % of the participants rated it as poor and 10.3% did not know.

San Augustine County volunteers operate the Fire Department. Both San Augustine

and Broaddus have volunteer fire departments.

Fire protection is an important service in San Augustine County as in any other rural

county. Participants in the focus groups as well as service providers voiced their

concerns about the manufacturing of methamphetamine. It can create a hazardous

environment for adults and children and can lead to fires.


29

Table 18: Fire Protection


Cumulative

Percent


Good 161 31.9 31.9 51.8

Fair 96 19.0 19.0 70.8

Poor 81 16.1 16.1 86.9

Do Not Know 52 10.3 10.3 97.2

Missing 14 2.8 2.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Animal Control

Animal control in San Augustine county is perceived as poor. Of the participants,

40.9% indicated they perceive it as poor and 26% did not know. 12.1% were of the

opinion that it is fair, while 11.3% perceive it as good. Only 6% are of the opinion that it is

good.

Animals are not kept in closed areas. This creates dangerous situations in the county.

It is not cost-effective to round-up animals and take them to a shelter.

Table 19: Animal Control



Good 57 11.3 11.3 17.3

Fair 61 12.1 12.1 29.4

Poor 206 40.9 40.9 70.2

Do Not

Know 131 26.0 26.0 96.2

Missing 19 3.8 3.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


30

Garbage Collection

29.2 % of the participants rated garbage collection as good and 16.9% as excellent.

15.9% rated it as fair, while 14.7% were of the opinion that it is poor. 19.2% did not

know. As in most small rural counties garbage collection is a problem.

Table 20: Garbage Collection


Cumulative

Percent


Good 147 29.2 29.2 46.0

Fair 80 15.9 15.9 61.9

Poor 74 14.7 14.7 76.6

Do Not Know 97 19.2 19.2 95.8

Missing 21 4.2 4.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Storm Drainage

Storm drainage is mostly perceived as fair or poor (38.4%). Of this 19.4% are of the

opinion that is fair, while 19% believe it is poor. 8.3% are of the opinion that it is

excellent and 16.9% indicated that it is good. 30.6% did not know.

Table 21: Storm Drainage



Good 85 16.9 16.9 25.2

Fair 98 19.4 19.4 44.6

Poor 96 19.0 19.0 63.7

Do Not Know 154 30.6 30.6 94.2

Missing 29 5.8 5.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


31

Library Services

The library resources and services in San Augustine Country are perceived as

excellent. The San Augustine Garden Club has a facility in the library “Pink Lady”

where English lessons are provided to residents. According to the CNAQ, 34.9% of

the county residents rated it as excellent, 26 % rated it as good, 10.1 % as fair and

9.3 % as poor. Of importance is that 16.3 % indicated that they did not know. It is not

clear if the 16.3% do not make use of the library services or if they do not know of its

existence.

Young adults who participated in the focus groups also indicated that the library is a

valuable resource in the county and that the service is good.

Table 22: Library Services


Cumulative

Percent


Good 131 26.0 26.0 60.9

Fair 51 10.1 10.1 71.0

Poor 47 9.3 9.3 80.4

Do Not Know 82 16.3 16.3 96.6

Missing 17 3.4 3.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Ambulance Services

Most of the participants rated ambulance services as fair (24.8%) and 21.8% as poor.

However when the CNAQ, and initial research cafés were conducted in 2012, there

were no ambulance services in Broadus or San Augustine. Since then the county has

obtained two ambulances.


32

Table 23: Ambulance Services


Cumulative

Percent


Good 127 25.2 25.2 37.7

Fair 125 24.8 24.8 62.5

Poor 110 21.8 21.8 84.3

Do Not Know 65 12.9 12.9 97.2

Missing 14 2.8 2.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Medical and Dental Services

32.5% of the participants indicated that they perceive the medical and dental services as

excellent or good. (25.2% rated services as good and 12.5% as excellent). In addition to

their perceptions about medical and dental services, county residents also shared their

perceptions during the research cafés. Transportation for elderly and persons with

disabilities for medical appointments as well as the improvement of the quality of the

local services in the cities of San Augustine and Broaddus are considered as priority

issues. The perceptions about poor services may be specific to the southern areas of the

county, where services are more limited.

Memorial Medical Center, San Augustine provides the following services:

Emergency rooms

Dialysis

Hospital beds

Breast exam room

X- Ray equipment

Physical therapy


33

Table 24: Medical and Dental Services


Cumulative

Percent


Good 121 24.0 24.0 32.5

Fair 133 26.4 26.4 58.9

Poor 162 32.1 32.1 91.1

Do Not Know 34 6.7 6.7 97.8

missing 11 2.2 2.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Mental Health Services

Perceptions about services are impacted by the fact that there is a lack of mental health

and related social services in the county. 35.5% of the participants rated the services as

poor, 11.5% rated it as fair, 8.1 % indicated that it is good and 3.4 % as excellent. A high

percentage of 33.9% indicated they do not know. This high percentage makes sense in

light of the fact that there are no services available.

The research cafés and focus groups indicated that accessibility to services in bordering

counties is an issue. Participants mentioned that they were specifically worried about

residents who are living in isolated areas. These residents do not have immediate access

to mental health services in case of an emergency. If they do not have the resources to

make use of services in a bordering county, the mental illness goes untreated.

Participants indicated that the development of resources for mental health patients in the

cities of San Augustine and Broaddus should be a priority.


34

Table 25: Mental Health Services


Cumulative

Percent


Good 41 8.1 8.1 11.5

Fair 58 11.5 11.5 23.0

Poor 179 35.5 35.5 58.5

Do Not Know 181 35.9 35.9 94.4

missing 28 5.6 5.6 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Public Transportation

There is no public transportation in San Augustine County. It is evident that public

transportation is one of the serious problems facing the county. Almost half of the

participants (48.6%) are of the opinion that public transportation is poor, while 29% did not

know.

Table 26: Public Transportation


Cumulative

Percent


Good 25 5.0 5.0 9.7

Fair 29 5.8 5.8 15.5

Poor 245 48.6 48.6 64.1

Do Not Know 146 29.0 29.0 93.1

Missing 35 6.9 6.9 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


35

The need for public transportation was the one theme that repeated in the roundtable

discussions, focus groups, and research cafés. Mention was made of a public

transportation system that worked well several years ago and how the termination of this

service impacted accessibility.

Roads and Highways

It was important to explore residents’ perception of county roads. Conditions of these

roads ensure or limit accessibility to services in cities of San Augustine and Broaddus as

well as remote areas in the county. Roads in San Augustine County are considered as

either poor (30.6%) or fair (33.7%). According to the CNAQ, 5% believe the roads are

excellent, 24.2% reported that they are good and 4.4% do not know.

Table 27: Roads and Highways


Cumulative

Percent


Good 122 24.2 24.2 29.2

Fair 170 33.7 33.7 62.9

Poor 154 30.6 30.6 93.5

Do Not Know 22 4.4 4.4 97.8

Missing 11 2.2 2.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Education and Public Schools

57.1 % of participants experience public education in San Augustine County

as excellent, good and fair. The school system is experiencing challenges as in other rural

communities. The schools are considered as important resources in the county.

It is evident that public education is mostly considered as fair or poor. The community

profile developed by Cooper (2013) refers to county resident’s overall concern for

children and a belief that children should receive a positive education in a constructive

learning environment (p11)


36

Participants in focus groups with young adults indicated that they are positive about the

schools in San Augustine County.

Table 28: Education and Public Schools


Cumulative

Percent


Good 99 19.6 19.6 26.8

Fair 153 30.4 30.4 57.1

Poor 126 25.0 25.0 82.1

Do Not Know 73 14.5 14.5 96.6

Missing 17 3.4 3.4 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Substance Abuse Services

As with other services, substance abuse services are located outside the county. In order

for county residents to receive counseling and treatment, they need to travel to Center,

Nacogdoches or Lufkin. The highest percentage of respondents indicated that they did

not know about the services – 42.5%, while 34.5 % perceive it as poor. The fact that most

participants did not know about services emphasizes the issues related to accessibility and

the lack of community-based services in the county. 3.5% perceive it as excellent, 5.8 %

as good and 9.3% as fair.

Substance abuse was identified as a problem by residents in San Augustine County and

this highlights the need for substance abuse services (education, prevention, treatment,

after-care and community re-integration). The community profile, research cafés and

interviews provide evidence that there is a need for services. Support services are

available through different support groups such as AA. San Augustine County also

instated a Drug Court in April 2013.


37

Table 29: Substance Abuse Services


Cumulative

Percent


Good 29 5.8 5.8 9.3

Fair 47 9.3 9.3 18.7

Poor 174 34.5 34.5 53.2

Do Not Know 214 42.5 42.5 95.6

Missing 21 4.2 4.2 99.8

34 1 .2 .2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Child Care Services

Child care services in San Augustine County is mostly considered as poor (25.2%) and

33.9% did not know. 5.8% perceive it as excellent, 11.3% as good and 11.5% as fair.

Several focus groups participants indicated that the need for child care services should be

considered as a priority. Child care services will enable mothers to work and can

contribute to financial stability.

Adults in the focus groups in Broaddus and San Augustine voiced their concern about

child care. They felt that the availability of child care service will enable them to make

use of employment opportunities even outside of the county. Research café participants

also mentioned the importance of making child care training available to county residents.

By having child care training located within the county it will create employment

opportunities for child care providers.


38

Y

o

u

n

g

Youth Programs and Recreation

Participants perceive youth programs and recreation in San Augustine as a resource to the

community. 27.4% perceive the programs as excellent, good and fair. Residents who

participated in the focus groups indicated that the lack of recreational activities in the

county is considered as a problem. Although there is ample opportunity for fishing and

hunting, structured activities for youth are limited.

A roundtable participant (community profile, personal communication, March 2, 2012)

indicated that separation among the races impacts the youth of the community. It stresses

the importance of using youth programs to educate youth and to build bridges in the

community.

There are currently several clubs in the county including Boys and Girls Clubs, 4-H clubs,

Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts.

Table 30: Child Care Services


Cumulative

Percent

V

a

l

i

d

Excellent 29 5.8 5.8 5.8

Good 57 11.3 11.3 17.1

Fair 58 11.5 11.5 28.6

Poor 127 25.2 25.2 53.8

Do Not Know 171 33.9 33.9 87.7

Missing 62 12.3 12.3 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


39

Services to the Elderly

A high number of participants are of the opinion that services for the elderly are poor

(27.4%) while 17.3% believe that services are fair. Only 7.3% believe that it is excellent

and 13.3% indicated that it is good. 22.8% of the participants indicated that they do not

know.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Census Bureau (2010),

10.1% of residents over the age of 65 live on their own. Living alone increases isolation

and the need for care. Specific focus groups with elderly residents in facilities are

positive and have hope for the future. These facilities provide excellent care for the

elderly.

Table 31: Youth Programs and Recreation


Cumulative

Percent


Good 48 9.5 9.5 14.7

Fair 64 12.7 12.7 27.4

Poor 217 43.1 43.1 70.4

Do not know 126 25.0 25.0 95.4

missing 23 4.6 4.6 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


40

Table 32: Services to the Elderly


Cumulative

Percent


Good 67 13.3 13.3 20.6

Fair 87 17.3 17.3 37.9

Poor 138 27.4 27.4 65.3

Do Not Know 115 22.8 22.8 88.1

Missing 60 11.9 11.9 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Government Assistance

Responses to this question varied. A high number of participants do not know (22%)

while 21.2% perceived the assistance as good. 11.1% perceive it as excellent; while

19.2% perceive it as fair and 19.4% as poor.

Table 33: Government Assistance


Cumulative

Percent


Good 107 21.2 21.2 32.3

Fair 97 19.2 19.2 51.6

Poor 98 19.4 19.4 71.0

Do Not Know 111 22.0 22.0 93.1

Missing 35 6.9 6.9 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


41

Counseling

Participants perceive counseling services in San Augustine County as poor (29.6%).

A high number of 45.2% indicated that they did not know. Only 4.2% perceive it as

excellent, 6.2% as good and 9.7% as fair. Counseling refers to services such as crisis

intervention and family counseling as identified on the CNAQ. Counseling services

are referred to professionals and agencies outside of the county. Elderly residents in

residential facilities receive counseling; however residents living in the community

only have access to counseling services outside of the county. Nacogdoches, Lufkin

and Center have services available but there is no public transport to these cities.

In terms of crisis intervention, service providers outside the county (such as the Burke

Center) are definitely available to county residents. However, crisis intervention

services are not available on a 24/7 basis, resulting in referrals to professionals who

are not counselors.

Table 34: Counseling


Cumulative

Percent


Good 31 6.2 6.2 10.3

Fair 49 9.7 9.7 20.0

Poor 149 29.6 29.6 49.6

Do Not Know 228 45.2 45.2 94.8

Missing 26 5.2 5.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Food Pantries

There are food pantries in the county but information on food pantries is not readily

available. 31.3% indicated they do not know about food pantries. 19.6% of the

respondents indicated they perceive it as poor and 16.9% perceived it as fair. 16.7%

were of the opinion that it is good. 10.7% of the participants indicated that it is

excellent. Although it was not widely known at the time of the survey, there were


42

food pantries. Most churches in the county have food pantries. Tri-county partners

with Care and Share to distribute food boxes in the county. Volunteers are actively

involved in the distribution. Through this service even residents in isolated areas are

reached.

Table 35: Food Pantries


Cumulative

Percent


Good 84 16.7 16.7 27.4

Fair 85 16.9 16.9 44.2

Poor 99 19.6 19.6 63.9

Do Not Know 158 31.3 31.3 95.2

Missing 24 4.8 4.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

6.5 Perception of Problems in the County

The community needs assessment CNAQ, community profile, research cafés, focus groups and

interviews identified specific problems in the community. Information was gathered from

county residents, service providers and community leaders. It is important to understand that the

data collected addressed perceptions of problems. Reports provided information on reported

incidents. The problems rated as highest in the CNAQ were related to substance abuse and

conditions of housing. The category of social problems is divided into questions on family

violence, elder abuse, neglect and exploitation, physical assault, drug/alcohol abuse, drug

manufacturing, drug dealers, and gangs. The questionnaire information specific to social

problems is supported by interviews, focus groups, and the community profile.

Condition of Houses

Participants experience the conditions of houses in San Augustine County as a problem.

This is evident from the community needs assessment questionnaire whereby 40.5% of the

participants indicated that they perceive it as a problem. 39.9% are of the opinion that it is


43

not a problem and 13.7% do not know. In addition, observations of houses in the county

show several structures that possibly create a danger for the community.

Table 36: Condition of Houses


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 204 40.5 40.5 40.5

No 201 39.9 39.9 80.4

Do Not Know 69 13.7 13.7 94.0

Missing 30 6.0 6.0 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Cost of Housing

39% of the participants indicated they do not perceive it as a problem. However 28%

indicated that they perceive it as a problem. While 25.4% did not know if it is a problem.

Data from the focus groups and the community profile indicated that it is considered as a

serious problem. Young adults who participated in the focus groups in San Augustine and

Broaddus were of the opinion that housing is preventing young people from living in the

county. Rent is high and residents who are underemployed are not able to afford the rent.

One of the community residents summed up the reality of housing - “due to

underemployment and many being unemployable many are living in substandard

conditions”

The community profile by Cooper (2013) gives an example how a resource is available

but is problematic: “In terms of housing, the San Augustine Housing Authority operates

an apartment complex with 72 units, including 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom apartments.

Interestingly, their complex has approximately 20 units open and no waiting list. The

staff attributed this to the county’s economic situation (San Augustine County Housing

Authority staff, personal communication, January 9, 2013). Specifically, many of the


44

families who need housing assistance are unable to afford their portion of the rent. The

county also has an assisted living facility and a privately owned and operated housing

facility for senior citizens. Section 8 housing is available through the Deep East Texas

Council of Governments (DETCOG)” (p. 23).

Table 37: Cost of Housing


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 141 28.0 28.0 28.0

No 201 39.9 39.9 67.9

Do Not Know 128 25.4 25.4 93.3

Missing 34 6.7 6.7 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Vandalism

According to the CNAQ, perceptions about vandalism differs 47.4% indicated they do not

perceive it as a problem and 26.6% do not know. 19.8% indicated they perceive it as

problem.

Table 38: Vandalism


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 100 19.8 19.8 19.8

No 239 47.4 47.4 67.3

Do Not Know 134 26.6 26.6 93.8

Missing 31 6.2 6.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


45

Burglaries

As with vandalism the responses differ. 26.6% were of the opinion that burglaries are a

problem, 41.5% indicated that they do not perceive it as a problem, and 26.4% did not

know.

Family Violence

During interviews, service providers and county residents verbalized that family violence

is a problem. However, 38.9% of the CNAQ, participants indicated that they do not know

if it is a problem, 22.8% consider it as problem, and 32.3% do not perceive it as a

problem. Limited information is available about family violence and there was no

reference to it in focus groups. According to the community profile roundtable

participants mentioned that domestic violence among other contributing factors were

observed as part of a generational history of poverty and child abuse/neglect.

Table 40: Family Violence


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 115 22.8 22.8 22.8

No 163 32.3 32.3 55.2

Do Not Know 196 38.9 38.9 94.0

Missing 30 6.0 6.0 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Table 39: Burglaries


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 134 26.6 26.6 26.6

No 209 41.5 41.5 68.1

Do Not Know 133 26.4 26.4 94.4

Missing 28 5.6 5.6 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


46

Elder Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation

A high number of participants (43.5%) indicated that they do not know if elder abuse is a

problem. 35.7 % do not perceive that it is a problem, and 13.9% indicated that they

perceive it as a problem. 6.9% of the participants did not give a response.

Service providers and volunteers identified isolation of elderly and inaccessibility of

services as problems. Service providers at two facilities identified the importance of

creating more support groups for elderly residents, a broader volunteer base to transport

elderly residents to medical services (such as dialysis) and community-based services.

Service providers at these facilities also informed the team that staff-turnover is a barrier

to care. In addition, churches provide a range of support services to their elderly residents.

Table 41: Elder Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 70 13.9 13.9 13.9

No 180 35.7 35.7 49.6

Do not know 219 43.5 43.5 93.1

missing 35 6.9 6.9 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Physical Assault

Again as with other problems, the highest response was that 38.5% do not know, 34.3%

do not perceive it as a problem, and 20.4% perceive it as a problem.

Table 42: Physical Assault


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 103 20.4 20.4 20.4

No 173 34.3 34.3 54.8

Do Not Know 194 38.5 38.5 93.3

Missing 34 6.7 6.7 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


47

Substance Abuse

Questions specific to substance abuse included perceptions about drug and alcohol abuse,

drug manufacturing and drug dealing. During the research cafés, and initial interviews

with service providers it became evident that problems related to drug abuse exist.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

45% of the participants indicated that drug/alcohol abuse is a problem in their specific

area. 26.6% indicated they do not know if it is a problem, and 21.2% do not perceive it as

a problem.

Table 43: Drug and Alcohol Abuse


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 227 45.0 45.0 45.0

No 107 21.2 21.2 66.3

Do not know 139 27.6 27.6 93.8

missing 31 6.2 6.2 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Drug Manufacturing

It is evident that drug manufacturing exists in San Augustine County. Several major roads

connect San Augustine County with larger cities in the area and it enhances opportunity

for drug manufacturing and dealing. Services providers and volunteers identified

problems related to drug manufacturing. Abuse and neglect of children and the elderly,

neglect of houses and property, financial problems are some of the problems related to

drug manufacturing. Dangerous living conditions (for example fire hazards) create a

danger to county residents.

38.7 % of the participants indicated that the manufacturing of drugs in the area where

they live is a problem. 32.5% did not know if it is a problem and 23.5% did not

consider it as a problem.


48

Table 44: Drug Manufacturing


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 195 38.7 38.7 38.7

No 117 23.2 23.2 61.9

Do Not Know 164 32.5 32.5 94.4

Missing 28 5.6 5.6 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Drug Dealing

40.7 % indicated that the existence of drug dealers is a problem in the area where they

live. 30.6% indicated it is not a problem and 30.6% indicated they did not know. There

are limited services related to drug abuse in San Augustine County and this is an

important issue to be addressed.

Table 45: Drug Dealing


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 205 40.7 40.7 40.7

No 116 23.0 23.0 63.7

Do Not Know 154 30.6 30.6 94.2

Missing 29 5.8 5.8 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0


49

Gangs

Most of the participants in the CNAQ do not know if there are gangs in the

county (46%). 37.3% are of the opinion that there are no gangs and only

8.5% indicate that it is a problem. 8.1 % of participants (8.1%) did not

answer the question.

According to research café participants and service providers they are not

aware of gangs.

Table 46: Gangs


Cumulative

Percent

Valid Yes 43 8.5 8.5 8.5

No 188 37.3 37.3 45.8

Do Not Know 232 46.0 46.0 91.9

Missing 41 8.1 8.1 100.0

Total 504 100.0 100.0

Other Problems

Participants were asked to identify if there were other problems. 30.6% of participants

indicated that they do not know if there were other problems in the county. A high

number (45.8%) did not answer the question. Specific problems as identified by

participants were related to condition of streets, recreational activities by trespassers,

gangs and environmental concerns.

7. POPULATIONS AT RISK

In all counties there are certain populations considered at risk. The Center for Disease Control

and Prevention identify certain at risk populations including but not limited to people with

disabilities, children, aged persons, immigrants and young adults. For the purpose of this

discussion at risk populations include abused and neglected children, elderly residents, young

adults and Hispanic residents. Research café participants identified specific problems

experienced by these populations.


50

Abused and neglected children - children living in dangerous situations for example where drug

manufacturing occurs, possible underreporting of abuse/neglect and limited awareness of what

constitutes abuse;

Elderly residents – living in isolated areas, no family or support to access resources and neglect

due to lack of care;

Young adults – limited employment for youth, lack of resources such as child care for families

with young children;

Hispanic residents – living in isolated areas and barriers in terms of language.

7.1 Child Abuse and Neglect

According to DFPS 2012 Data Book (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services), San

Augustine County has 1,840 children. In several conversations it became evident that county

volunteers believe child abuse and neglect is a problem in the county. The project team

determined that there might be a strong reluctance to respond to a questionnaire that included

questions about child abuse and to prevent an overall low response rate this issue was not

included. Data from other sources were collected to develop a better understanding of child

abuse and neglect. According to the DFPS 2012 Data Book (Texas Department of Family and

Protective Services), the following was reported for San Augustine County by CPS:

Table 47: Confirmed CPS Victims and Investigations

Confirmed Victims of Child Abuse/Neglect 15

Total CPS Completed Investigations 49

Confirmed CPS Investigations 12

Table developed based on data DFPS 2012 Data Book (TDFPS)

In addition, 7 children were in substitute care, 6 children entered care (removals) and 4 children

were in foster care (P. 160).


51

Table 48: Child Abuse and Neglect in San Augustine County

Initial Intakes 69

Child Abuse/Neglect Reports Assigned for Investigation 61

CPS Workers Responsible for Intake or Investigation by Office

Location

0

Investigation Initiation Response Time in Completed Investigations

Priority 1:

Within 24 hours

Over 24 hours

10

0

Investigation Initiation Response Time in Completed Investigations

Priority 2:

Within 72 hours

Over 24 hours

38

1

Alleged Victims of Child Abuse/ Neglect 68

Alleged Victims in Unconfirmed Investigations 49

Alleged Victims in Ruled Out Investigations 30

Alleged Victims Provided Services * *Subcategory of unconfirmed investigations DFPS 2012 Data Book (TDFPS)

16

Alleged Victims not Provided Services ** **Only includes children who received post-investigation services DFPS 2012 Data

Book (TDFPS)

52

Children Removed from Home *** ***Children removed from homes as a result of a completed investigation without

regards to concurrent open family stages, a subset of total children entering

substitute care DFPS 2012 Data Book (TDFPS)

3

Table developed based on data DFPS 2012 Data Book (TDFPS)

A review of CPS data from 2010-2012 show that completed investigations, in home services and

substitute care are received at a lower rate in San Augustine County (DFPS, 2010, 2011, 2012,

see Table 49 for complete data). In home services are used to preserve families to avoid removal

of children but maintain their safety, while substitute care are placements outside the home such

as, kinship care, foster homes, residential treatment facilities, foster group homes, juvenile

facilities and independent living facilities for older youth.


52

Table 49: CPS Data Comparisons between San Augustine County and Texas

Table developed based on data from DFPS 2010, 2011, 2012 Annual Report and Data Books

CPS

Fiscal Year

Children in Substitute Care per 1,000 Children

State SA County

2010 6.0 1.8

2011 6.7 1.3

2012 6.4 3.8

Average 6.36 2.3

CPS

Fiscal Year

CPS Completed Investigations per 1,000 children

State SA County

2010 25.7 24.1

2011 26.3 27.6

2012 23.5 26.6

Average 25.16 26.1

CPS

Fiscal Year

Confirmed Victims of Child Abuse/Neglect per 1,000 Children

State SA County

2010 10.1 7.8

2011 9.8 11.5

2012 9.1 8.1

Average 9.7 8.8

CPS

Fiscal Year

Number of Removals per 1,000 children

State SA County

2010 2.4 4.6

2011 2.5 0.4

2012 2.4 3.2

Average 2.43 2.73

CPS

Fiscal Year

Children Receiving In-Home Services per 1,000 Children

State SA County

2010 14.9 7.4

2011 13.9 9.6

2012 11.9 13.0

Average 13.56 10


53

According to the roundtable discussions, and research cafés, service providers, community

leaders and volunteers believe that there is a low intake of child abuse cases partly due to a lack

of CPS presence in the county. When asked for their opinions, the child welfare and law

enforcement professionals agreed that child abuse/neglect is underreported (Roundtable

Participants, Personal Communications, March 2, 2012 in Cooper (2013)).

Additionally, San Augustine County demographics include characteristics of children and

families that indicate a higher incidence of child abuse/neglect than what is being reported.

These characteristics relate to unemployment, lower socioeconomic status, single parent family

structure and county metropolitan status, as well as the child’s race/ethnicity (Sedlak,

Mettenburg, Basena, Petta, McPherson, Greene, and Li, 2010). According to the Fourth National

Incidence Study of Child Abuse and Neglect (NIS–4), “rates of maltreatment for Black children

were significantly higher than those for White and Hispanic children” (Sedlak et al., 2010, p.10).

The following are comparisons between San Augustine County and Texas for the above

mentioned characteristics (Annie E. Casey Foundation, 2013):

Unemployment - SA 12.4%; Texas 7.9%

Socioeconomic status

o Poverty (ages 0-17) - SA 37.9%; Texas 26.6%

o Children living in areas of concentrated poverty - SA 39.1%; Texas 17%

o Free/reduced-price lunch recipients – SA 94.7%; Texas 62.4%

o Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) – SA 38.8%; Texas 26.4%

o WIC recipients (ages 0-4) – SA 60.1%; Texas 43.6%

o Medicaid enrollment (ages 0-18) – SA 57%; Texas 33.6%

o SSI recipients (ages 0-17) – SA 38.1%; Texas 19.8%

Family Structure

o Children in single parent families – SA 56.6%; Texas 29.9%

o Births to single teens (ages 13-19) – SA 18.8%; Texas 11.2%

Finally, levels of child abuse and neglect are twice as high for rural counties compared to urban

counties (Sedlak et al., 2010), which indicates an even greater risk for San Augustine County

children.


54

Clearly, community leaders and professionals have cause for concern when it comes to

protecting the county’s children from abuse and neglect. The number of reports is likely to be

considerably lower than actual maltreatment occurrence, and when there are confirmed victims

of abuse, the level of services are provided at a lower rate than for Texas children as a whole

(DFPS, 2010, 2011, 2012, see table 59 for complete data). In addition to the residents’ reluctance

to call in suspected child abuse, there are no CPS workers responsible for intake or investigation

by office location for San Augustine County (DFPS, 2012). This data emphasizes the importance

of educating not only professionals that come in contact with children but all county residents

about child abuse and neglect and the need to report. Because of the rural nature of the

population, it is also critical to have a CPS office location in the county with child protection

workers to develop relationships with rural community members and enhance accessibility to

CPS investigations and services.

7.2 Elderly Residents

It was important to include the voices of the elderly county residents. This was done by

interviewing elderly residents (including residents in senior living facilities). The CNAQ was

administered to many elderly residents living in the county.

Elderly participants who were included in the focus groups were in a nursing home and in an

assisted living facility. Overall the themes are positive and suggest strengths rather than

limitations.

Nursing Home Environment

The physical, social and emotional environment in the nursing homes impacts the elderly

resident’s well-being. Cleanliness and the overall neatness of the nursing home facility make an

impact on their perspective of their surrounding environment. According to the residents, the

absence of odor that is commonly associated with nursing home settings contributes to a positive

atmosphere.

Staff

Perceptions about staff are overall positive. The staff decorates the nursing homes, which creates

a positive environment. Residents feel that they can build positive relationships with the staff.

The residents enjoy being loved and cared for by the staff at the nursing home. Helping the staff


55

in the nursing home gives the residents a sense of purpose. The participants stated that they

appreciate being considered as equals by the staff. The staff has a significant influence on the

well-being of residents. The participants noted the extra efforts from the staff; such as the staff

telling the residents they love them, giving them hugs and “kisses” [Participant Colonial Pines]

and making sure they have the things they need on a daily basis adds value to their lives.

“It makes all the difference that we have more than a good relationship with the staff of the

nursing home” [Participant Colonial Pines].

Community Support

The involvement of the church positively impacts the resident’s well-being. The participants

stated that the involvement of the churches from the community gives them a connection with

the outside community and gives them a sense of socialization with others outside of the nursing

home. They feel positive about church members visiting them. The participants stated that they

would feel lost if they did not have regular church services within the nursing home. Friendships

with staff and other residents positively replace the absence of long distance relationships with

family and friends. It gives elderly residents a sense of belonging. The participants also stated

that the established relationships and friendships with other residents provide a sense of family.

It was noted in the focus groups that one of the areas that need improvement in the nursing home

environment is more involvement from the community for the residents who do not have any

family or friends. The residents stated that it would benefit those residents with no family to

receive visits from county residents and volunteers.

Quality of Life

Residents in the nursing homes are attuned to and affected by one another. Whenever a fellow

resident is in distress or discomfort it hinders the other residents. The focus group participants

indicated that the choice to live in nursing home is a difficult decision. All participants stated that

they felt a sense of control and independency from being able to make the decision to live in a

nursing home. It was a life choice they made that would benefit them by living in an

environment that fit their health and physical needs, without burdening their loved ones.

The right to make decisions enhances the independency of nursing home residents. One

residents said: “Being able to make choices from what I will wear for the day to having a choice


56

of what to have for breakfast, lunch and dinner is important” The residents also believe that

being in a rural community enriches their lives and connects them with other county residents.

Stigma

Residents are aware of the fact that there is a stigma about nursing homes. The participants

stated that while they made the decision to live in a nursing home on their own there were some

apprehensive feelings towards the idea because of the general negative perception of nursing

homes. The residents take pride in their nursing home environment. The participants noted the

nice furnishings within the nursing home, the decorations during various holidays, and the

cleanliness of the nursing home. Being treated with respect is important to residents. The

participants stated that their dignity and self-worth surfaced from being respected by the staff at

the nursing home. Given the opportunity to retain or improve their physical abilities is an

important factor. (For example, the opportunity to improve their walking capabilities)

7.3 Young Adults (County Residents Age 18 -30)

Twenty-one county residents participated in the focus groups in the cities of San Augustine and

Broaddus. It was important to include the youth to ensure their input since the CNAQ had low

representative of residents aged 18 – 30.

Many of the young adults interviewed live in San Augustine permanently and have family

connections in the county. The main challenges identified by the young adult population of San

Augustine County are - adequate employment opportunities, nearby activities and entertainment,

and continuing education programs.

The following table provides a sample of demographic information of the one focus group.


57

Table 50: Sample Demographics

Gender Race Age Employment Commute

to work?

Marital

Status

Children

F W 28 Self-employed No S 0

F W 27 Student Yes M 2

M W 26 Funeral Home No S 0

M W 30 Trade Services Yes S 0

F W 27 Stay-at-Home Mom No M 2

M W 22 Unemployed No S 0

F W 27 County Employee No S 0

F W 30 Student/Stay-at-Home

Mom

No M 2

F B 27 Educator No S 0

F B 27 Educator No S 1

Employment

It is evident that it is difficult for young adults to obtain adequate employment and many are

forced to settle for what they can find if they want to stay in the county. According to the focus

group participants, once a person graduates from high school, there are many obstacles that stand

in the way of young adults furthering their education. There are also no continuing education

programs located within the county.

Availability of jobs is a barrier to their quality of life. There are limited options within the

county. One participant stated, “If you stay here in Broaddus you’re mainly going to be a

teacher or a truck driver. That’s basically all you’ve got here”. Of the jobs that are available,

there is a perception that very few hire outside of the family who owns the business, pay well

enough or provide adequate benefits to fulfill the needs of a young adults who are trying to

support a family, or themselves. One participant stated, “If I were to go back and get my masters

in occupational therapy like I planned to, I would make more in a bigger city then I would here”.


58

Participants stressed the idea of the need for larger businesses within the county that could

provide young adults with more jobs, especially those that would provide lifelong careers.

Growth and Progress

Focus group participants felt that lack of progress, especially geared towards the younger

generation, is one of the main challenges in the county. One participant stated, “I think there’s a

lot of really good progress being made, but none that will actually affect the younger group”. In

regards to community progress another participant stated, “I just don’t see it. That’s all I’ve got

to say about that”. Overall, participants agreed that the amount of effective progress is severely

lacking within this county.

Poverty

Young adults experience financial difficulties and poverty. They are also concerned about the

levels of poverty in the county. One participant stated that poverty is, “probably the biggest issue

in San Augustine County”. Participants explained that the poverty within the county is often

persistent within families, making it challenging for future generations to escape that lifestyle. In

regards to poverty, one participant stated, “There’s a saying with the poor people, I can’t buy a

car because I don’t have a job and I can’t get a job because I don’t have a car. And that’s where

you’re stuck at”. Participants felt the extreme poverty seen within some areas contributes to the

county being unappealing to outsiders. One participant stated, “It’s the norm to live in poverty.

It’s the norm not to try and do better”.

Education

Participants were of the opinion that there is a lack of opportunity for higher education and

continuing education located within the county. There are however opportunities available in

surrounding counties such as Nacogdoches County. Participants are frustrated and discouraged

about this. One participant stated, “Let’s say, I want to get a better education…I’m an hour from

the nearest spot to get that so, it’s kind of hard to like have to drive all the way out there”.

Participants also stated that many young adults do not consider the importance of higher

education. One participant stated, “If you have parents that are uneducated then, it’s not

influenced in your household for education to be important”.


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Safety

Participants were clear about how safe they feel living in San Augustine County. They are

positive about safety and the overall law enforcement in the county. There was not a single

participant that expressed concerns about feeling unsafe while living in this community. Both

focus groups had participants who mentioned that they often sleep with their doors unlocked.

One participant stated, “I think it’s pretty safe. I’ve been here a year and I mean, I can’t really

remember any crime in town”. Participants take great pride of the idea that they do not have to

worry about safety within this community.

Recreation Activities

There is a need for more activities and entertainment directed at young adults and families with

children. According to the participants, there is a lack of activities and entertainment geared

towards the young adult population. Participants stated that they often have to go outside of the

county just to go to the movies, shopping or to dine. The nearest places for entertainment are

between forty five minutes to an hour away and participants stated that many people are unable

to make that trip for a number of reasons, but mainly due to lack of time, money and

transportation. In regards to this issue one participant stated, “…everybody’s so broke now;

nobody wants to drive an hour to Lufkin”. Participants also expressed how they struggle with

finding activities and entertainment for their children to do within the county. One participant

stated, “We have to travel to Center or Nacogdoches for my daughter to do anything. Like get

into sports, extracurricular, and stuff”.

Availability of Drugs

The use of illegal drugs is one of the most prevalent issues and it affects all age groups,

particularly the young adult population. Participants mentioned that the use of illegal drugs is a

popular activity that many young adults encounter. One participant stated, “Drugs is one of the

biggest problems in San Augustine”. An important contributing factor that contributes to this

issue is the lack of recreational activities within the county.

A participant stated, “…there’s nothing to do but to get in trouble around here”. Participants

explained that when education is not a priority and there is so little activities/entertainment for


60

people to engage in, people often turn to drugs. It is also believed that if more effective

measures were taken to address this issue, the problem would be minimized.

Social Support

The focus group members consider the friendliness of county residents as a contributing factor to

their positive attitude towards the county. Participants explained that everyone knows each other

and it enhances support in the community. One participant stated, “I enjoy the fact that a lot of

people are friendly. Even if I see somebody five times a day, I’m still going to wave five times

that day. And we’re close knit”. Participants stressed the idea that people are always willing to

“lend a helping hand” [words of a participant] when they know someone may be in need or

going through a difficult time. One participant stated, “I love how everybody is there to help

each other and like when somebody loses somebody you know…like, everybody pulls together

and like helps them and you know…is there for them”.

Participants stated that they feel as though community support is geared towards the elderly

population. They are of the opinion that the county is a retirement community that is more

concerned with meeting the needs of the older population. One participant stated that the view

of San Augustine is “Come here to retire, but don’t stay if you’re young”. There are many

young adults who are motivated to be involved or support the community. One participant

stated, “I think there would be support, but there are not enough of us”.

7.4 Hispanic/Latino Residents

The Hispanic/Latino population was included in the needs assessment through a CNAQ

translated in Spanish as well as interviews with key informants. A family based event was

organized where the Latino population was to share their thoughts and experiences about living

in the county. Personal interviews were also conducted and a group discussion was held for any

comments or questions for participants. The information available is limited; however it does

provide some insight in how Latino residents experience strengths and barriers in the county.

The following questions were asked during the personal interviews:

1. Do you live in San Augustine? Do you commute for work?

2. What services would you like to see here? What services would your family benefit

from?


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3. What will keep you here in the future?

4. Why do you want to stay in San Augustine?

5. What can the county change?

6. What strengths and challenges do you face?

7. What major problems do you see in the community?

From the interviews with key informants certain barriers were identified:

Job Opportunities

Limited job opportunities exist for Latino families. They have to travel to Nacogdoches or Center

(for example to the Tyson plant) for work. Jobs are considered as strengths even though they have

to commute. A county resident commented: “There are no jobs here. I have to commute. My job is

my strength – it keeps me going everyday”

Family

The most important factor keeping Latino families in San Augustine County is the stability of

family. Having extended family to help with child care is an important factor in trying to reach

financial stability.

Barriers to Services

Accessibility to medical care is considered as a barrier. Elderly Latino residents specifically are in

need of care. However the participants were positive about medical care according to the

following responses: The medical care provided by the Government is helpful” and “Even though

we travel far for medical attention, they at least charge a low cost”.

Language barriers are considered a factor in not seeking services. The participants indicated that

education for Latinos such as offering English classes would increase job opportunities, learning

new skills and communicating with other people in the community.

It seems that Latino residents are hesitant to ask for services.. One of the responses emphasized

this: “Even if there were services available to Spanish speaker, many times people do not want to

inform us or work with use because they see us as taking all their resources”. There was some


62

resistance in participating in the interviews and completion of the CNAQ. Some Latino residents

voiced a sense of uncertainty.

8. CONCLUSION

San Augustine County residents participated in a comprehensive county needs assessment. A

participatory action model was used to develop a community profile, identify and explore needs

related to social services, collect residents’ perceptions related to problems and services in the

county, describe at risk populations and identify strengths and challenges.

Overall the needs assessment highlighted strengths in the county. Residents are actively involved

in the community and are positive about making a difference. The importance of addressing the

limited availability of social services was highlighted through this project. Residents are actively

volunteering to address the gaps due to the lack of services. The strong will and commitment to

take care of residents in need is a strength in the county. Residents perceive several problems as

high priority. Substance abuse and problems related to manufacturing drugs impact quality of life

of county residents. Specific at risk populations were identified namely elderly county residents,

children, young adults and Hispanic/Latino residents. Each of these groups experiences their own

challenges and due to the lack of social services, their meets are not being met.

9. RECOMMENDATIONS

1. In order to effectively address the problems in San Augustine County, it is important to

provide social services located within the county. Getting funded agencies tasked to deliver

established services should be a priority. These social services should address the needs

identified in the study – substance abuse, mental health, child and adult protection services

(including the elderly). An increase and presence of service providers in the county will raise

awareness of the needs of certain at risk populations including the elderly, mental health

patients, children who are abused and those affected by substance abuse and addiction. It is

anticipated that the number of reports will increase and it will create an atmosphere of

support and help to the community;


63

2. In order to develop social services, it is important to focus on prevention, treatment and after-

care. It is recommended that services provided in the county focus on a continuum of care

rather than one part of the continuum. For example, if county residents have to receive after-

care services in other counties, it may impact the success rate of services;

3. Services should be accessible in terms of language – specifically to the Spanish speaking

population. The program to teach English to non - English speaking residents is a valuable

resource. It is important to raise awareness on the availability of this important resource;

4. By ensuring services, the need for volunteers will also increase. San Augustine County

residents are committed to the enhancement of their quality of life. The strong volunteer

support can be used to strengthen social services. It is recommended that an alliance of

volunteers is created to strengthen and structure the volunteer base. Information about

volunteer services should be readily available to county residents;

5. A one-stop model for social services is recommended. The model enhances accessibility for

service delivery. Such a model will enable service providers to effectively refer clients or

patients without the need for additional transportation;

6. Addressing the needs of the youth in the county should be a priority. Existing resources for

the youth should be strengthened. It is also important to raise awareness about the different

resources for youth;

7. It is important for the county to identify sustainable strategies to keep young individuals and

families in the county. These strategies should be strengthened by sustainable economic

development and an increase in educational opportunities to develop a trade or a profession;

8. It is recommended that a partnership network is developed to strengthen efforts for grant

applications and service development. The partnership network should include agencies and

institutions with resources. It is important to include county residents who will take

ownership of sustainable change;


64

9. Information on support groups, food pantries and services should be made available to

county residents on a continuous basis. In addition to the resources guide, information should

be published and distributed through churches and newspapers;

10. The county should raise awareness of the existing services. The San Augustine County

Resource Guide (2013) provides comprehensive information about the services. This

information should be distributed to churches, the schools, medical centers and all agencies

delivering services;

11. The need for child care service should be a priority. Child care services will enable parents to

work and will contribute to financial stability of families. Training in child care should be

developed;

12. Adequate infrastructure specific to garbage collection and animal control should be

developed and strengthened;

13. Medical services and dental care should be strengthened;

14. A recreation center or a central community center should be developed. It should include a

place where activities for children and youth can be presented;

15. Volunteers, teachers and other professionals should be trained to identify risks in the county.

Specific training on the identification of child abuse, elderly abuse and substance abuse

should be a priority;

16. Educational opportunities should be brought to San Augustine County. This should include

the development of a vocational training program;

17. The lack of public transportation creates challenges for many residents. The development of

a transportation system with access for all county residents should be a priority;

18. It is recommended that further research on economic development and resources be

conducted. Further research on at risk populations including children who have been abused

and neglected, elderly, young adults and undocumented persons is necessary. Other groups


65

include persons with disabilities and people who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS;

19. A follow-up study of the needs assessment is important. It is also recommended that after

services have been implemented in the county, an evaluation should be done;

20. The current strategic plan of the county already includes information based on the county

needs assessment. It is important to include and update the information as it relates to the

strategic plan.


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REFERENCES

Annie E. Casey Foundation. (2012). Kids Count profile for San Augustine County. Retrieved

from

http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/bystate/stateprofile.aspx?state=TX&group=All&loc=

6717&dt=1%2c3%2c2%2c4

Annie E. Casey Foundation. (2013). Selected Kids Count indicators for San Augustine County.

Retrieved from http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/customreports/6717/any

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2011). Other At Risk Populations. Retrieved from:

http://www.cdc.gov/

City County Data Book (2012). Retrieved from http://www.city-data.com/county/San_Augustine

County

Cooper, H.S. (2013). San Augustine County Social Services Needs Assessment and Community

Profile. Nacogdoches, TX: SFA.

Rural Assistance Center. (n.d.). What is rural? Retrieved from

http://www.raconline.org/topics/what-is-rural/

San Augustine County Resources Guide. (2013). San Augustine County, TX: San Augustine

County Judge’s Office.

Sedlak, A.J., Mettenburg, J., Basena, M., Petta, I., McPherson, K., Greene, A., and Li, S. (2010).

Fourth National Incidence Study of Child Abuse and Neglect (NIS–4): Report to

Congress, Executive Summary. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human

Services, Administration for Children and Families.

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, DFPS. (2010). 2010 Annual Report and

Data Book. Retrieved from

http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/About_DFPS/Data_Books_and_Annual_Reports/2010/default

.asp




.asp

http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/bystate/stateprofile.aspx?state=TX&group=All&loc=6717&dt=1%2c3%2c2%2c4

http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/bystate/stateprofile.aspx?state=TX&group=All&loc=6717&dt=1%2c3%2c2%2c4

http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/customreports/6717/any

http://www.cdc.gov/

http://www.city-data.com/county/San_Augustine%20County

http://www.city-data.com/county/San_Augustine%20County

http://www.raconline.org/topics/what-is-rural/

http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/About_DFPS/Data_Books_and_Annual_Reports/2010/default.asp





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.asp

U.S. Department of Commerce, & United States Census Bureau. (2010).San Augustine

County [Data file]. Retrieved from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/48/48405.html.

U.S. Department of Commerce, & United States Census Bureau. (2012a).San Augustine

County [Data file]. Retrieved from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/48/48405.html.

U.S. Department of Commerce, & United States Census Bureau. (2012b). Table 76. Religious

Bodies—Selected Data [Data file]. Retrieved from

http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2012/tables/12s0076.pdf




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APPENDIXES

San Augustine County

Community Needs Assessment Questionnaire

Dear community member,

Thank you very much for taking the time to help us with the community needs assessment. This

questionnaire will help us to determine the specific needs in your area. We anticipate that it will take 30

minutes to complete the questionnaire. Please or encircle your answer. Your feedback is valuable to us.

Thank you for your time!

Section 1:

1. What 3 things do you like most about living in San Augustine County?

2. What kind of struggles are you facing?

3. Where do you get most of your support in the community

4. Do you feel that there are opportunities for you in this community (For example raising a family,

work, education)? Explain.

5. What 3 things would make a better life for you and your family?

Section 2:

1. How would you rate the following in your area:

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

Do not know

Law enforcement Emergency 911 Fire protection

Appendix 1


69

Animal control Garbage collection Storm drainage Library service Ambulance service Medical/dental services Mental health services Public transportation Roads/highway/streets Education (public schools) Substance abuse services Child care services Youth programs and recreation Elderly services Government assistance (Medicaid, food stamps, Social Security) Counseling (such as crisis intervention, family counseling) Food pantries

2. How safe do you feel where you live?

Day

Very Safe

Safe

Undecided

Unsafe

Very unsafe

Night Very Safe

Safe

Undecided

Unsafe

Very unsafe

Please explain your answer

3. Which, if any are problems in your area?

Yes

No

Do not know

Condition of houses Cost of housing Vandalism Burglaries Family violence Elder abuse, neglect and exploitation Physical assault Drug/alcohol abuse Drug manufacturing Drug dealers Gangs Other


70

If other, please explain:

4. Do you have access to the following?

Internet - at home? Yes No Internet – at work? Yes No Internet – at library? Yes No Landline (phone) Yes No Cell phone Yes No Dependable vehicle Yes No

5. Background Information

The following information is important to assess the needs of San Augustine County for future growth

and development. Please do not give your name.

5.1 Age: _____

5.2 Gender:

Male

Female

Both answered questionnaire

5.3 Address: (nearest two crossroads)

5.4 Employment

Employed

Unemployed

Self employed

5.5 The major wage earner is employed in the following:

Agriculture

Logging and timber

Oil and gas production

Services (such as lawn, auto, repair, cleaning)

Construction

Manufacturing

Retail/wholesale

Transportation, communications and public utilities

Finance, Insurance, real estate

Health/Medical care

Clergy

Government

Education

Service

Retired

Homemaker

Student

Important!


71

Other - Please identify _______________________________________________

5.6 What is your family income?

Less than $10,000

$10,000 - $19,999

$20,000 - $29,999

$30,000 - $39,999

$40,000 - $49,999

$50,000 - $59,999

$60,000 and more

5.7 What was the last year or grade in school your completed?

Grade school

Some high school

High school graduate /GED

Some college/vocational

College graduate

Graduate degree

5.8 How long have you lived in San Augustine County? _____________years

If you have additional comments and/or ideas to assist in assessing San Augustine County needs

please feel free to share them.

Thank you.


Condado de San Agustín

Cuestionario de Evaluación de Necesidades de la Comunidad San Agustín

Estimado miembro de la comunidad:

Muchas gracias por darnos su tiempo en ayudarnos con la evaluación de necesidades para su

comunidad. Este cuestionario nos ayudara determinar necesidades especificas en su área.

Anticipamos 30 minutos de su tiempo para completar el cuestionario. Porfavor o circule su

respuesta. Su opinión es valiosa para nosotros. Gracias por su tiempo!

Sección 1:

6. Qué 3 cosas le gustan mas de vivir en el condado de San Agustín?

7. Qué tipo de luchas enfrenta usted?

8. De donde recibe usted la mayoría de apoyo en su comunidad?

9. Piensa qué hay oportunidades para usted en la comunidad (Por ejemplo crear una familia,

trabajo, educación)? Explique.

10. Qué 3 cosas haría una mejor vida para usted y su familia?

Sección 2:

6. Cómo calificaría los siguientes en su área:

Excelente

Bueno

Regular

Malo

No sabe

Appendix 2


Aplicación de la ley Emergencia 911 Protección contra incendios Servicio de control de aimales Colección de basura Drenaje de aguas de tormenta Servicio de biblioteca Servicio de ambulancia Servicios medicos/dentales Servicios de salud mental Transporte public Carreteras/autopista/calles Educación (escuelas públicas) Servicios de abuso de sustancias Servicios de cuidado de niños Programas para la juventud y recreación Servicios para los ancianos Asistencia del gobierno (Medicaid, estampillas de comida, Seguridad

Social)

Apoyo psicológico (como intervención de crisis, asesoramineto

familiar)

Despensas de alimento

7. Qué seguridad siente donde vive usted?

Día

Muy Seguro

Seguro

Sin decisión

Inseguro

Muy inseguro

Noche Muy Seguro

Seguro

Sin decisión

Inseguro

Muy inserguro

Por favor explique su respuesta.

8. Cuales, si algunos son problemas en su área?

Si

No

No sé


Condición de casas Costo de la vivienda Vandalismo Robos Violencia familiar Maltrato al anciano, negligencia, explotación Agresión fisica Abuso de droga/ alcohol Fabricación de drogas Traficantes de drogas Pandillas Otra cosa

Si otro, por favor explique:

9. Tiene usted acceso a lo siguiente?

Internet – en casa? Si No Internet – en el trabajo? Si No Internet – en la biblioteca? Si No Teléfono de casa Si No Teléfono de cellular Si No Vehículo seguro Si No

10. Información previa

La siguiente información es importante para evaluar las necesidades de el Condado de San

Agustín para futuro crecimiento y desarollo. Por favor no de su nombre.

5.1 Edad: _____

5.2 Sexo:

Masculino

Femenino

Ambos respondieron la encuesta

Importante!


10.3 Dirección: (dos intersecciónes mas cercanas)

5.4 Empleo

Con empleo

Sin empleo

Independiente

5.5 La principal fuente de ingresos es empleado en las siguientes:

Agricultura

Explotación forestall y productor de madera

Producción de petroleo y gas

Servicios (como de césped, auto, reparar, limpieza)

Contrucción

Trabajo de fabricación

Venta comercial/venta al por mayor

Transportación, communicación, y servicios públicos

Finanzas, Seguro, Bienes y raices

Asistencia medica y de salud

Clero

Empleo del gobierno

Educación

Servicio militar

Jubilado

Ama de casa

Estudiante

Otro – Por favor identifique

______________________________________________

5.6 Cuál es su ingreso familiar?

Menos de $10,000

$10,000 - $19,999

$20,000 - $29,999

$30,000 - $39,999

$40,000 - $49,999

$50,000 - $59,999

$60,000 o mas

5.7 Cuál fue el último año o grado en la escuela qué completo?

Escuela primaria


Alguna escuela secundaria

Graduado de escuela secundaria /GED (diploma de equivalencia general)

Algunos estudios universitarios/formación profesional

Graduado de la universidad

Maestría

5.8 Cuánto tiempo ha vivido en el condado de San Agustín? _____________años

Si usted tiene comentarios adicionales o ideas de asistir en la evaluación de necesidades del

condado de San Agustín, por favor de compartir.

Gracias.

Documents

SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY, TEXAS COMMUNITY …sacounty/admin/resources/san-augustine...Director of United Way, The Burke Center, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, and Judge Paul White’s