Colonia Anapra, NM is one of the poorest and most disenfranchised communities in the country. Located within the city of Sunland Park, NM the area borders both El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juarez, Chihuaua in Mexico. There are disproportionately high levels of un- or underemployment, middle and high school drop out rates, teen pregnancy, gang affiliation, and drug use.

In addition, the community rests in a low-lying area surrounded by major industrial pollutants such as the ASARCO smelter, the El Paso Power Plant, and the Camino Real Landfill. The area has become extremely contaminated, and perhaps the worst effect of the long term toxic poisoning of the area is the history of mental and physical disabilities that plague residents. For decades children have been born with or have grown to suffer from learning disabilities, unusually high levels of irritability and aggression, hyperactivity and the inability to concentrate, developmental problems, respiratory diseases, chronic fatigue, seizures, and incontinence – to give a few examples.

Yet despite these obstacles, the community is thriving. Residents support one another and work hard to provide for themselves and their families. The heart of the colonia is a local community center - La Casita - that gives children a place to go after school and serves as the gathering place for local events.

In addition, a few years ago El Paso resident Taylor Moore began working with the children in Colonia Anapra to build a community garden with the hopes that it would serve as a rehabilitative tool for the community. Children are taught how to grow and care for plants, flowers and vegetables – and the products of their labor then earn them a bit of income when they sell at various local farmer’s markets and community events, as well as fresh produce for themselves and their families. Participating in the garden program is working to provide the children with a sense of stewardship towards bettering their community and their environment. The program has since grown to incorporate three growing sites which include Mr. Moore's home, the San Martin de Porras church and the main garden in Colonia Anapra. Mr. Moore visits the sites every evening and on the weekends with a revolving and ever-growing group of children.

This page will feature photo stories covering various aspects of life in Colonia Anapra.