The Monterey County Commission on the Status of Women has launched its 2025 survey, aiming to hear directly from women across the county about the challenges they face or any concerns they may have from housing instability, access to childcare, equal pay, and more. The goal is to build a comprehensive picture of what life is like for women and families in Monterey County and use that data to advocate for change.

The brief survey is available in both English and Spanish and will remain open until December. At the end of the year, the Commission will present the survey findings to the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, with the aim of making sure that community concerns are not just heard, but acted on.

“This is our way to advocate for all the women and have their voices be heard,” said Adriana Narez-Tapia, a management analyst for the county’s Department of Social Services. “We want to reach all the areas of Monterey County, to make sure we get responses from a diverse group of women, from all economic statuses.”

During the Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday, commissioners gave a presentation, detailing the importance of the survey and highlighting the commission’s role in sharing information.

The Commission does not currently have a budget, but it provides guidance and referrals to resources for women in need. Among the most pressing issues raised in past surveys are housing, domestic violence and legal services as well as access to childcare.

Commissioners emphasized that every voice matters — especially in a county as economically and geographically diverse as Monterey. The commission’s goal is 2,000 survey responses.

“This survey asks what do you need, as a woman living here?” Narez-Tapia said.

“We use the answers to advocate — to bring your concerns to the people with the power to change things.”

The Commission on the Status of Women meets every second Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at 1000 S Main Street, Room 110, Salinas. Meetings are open to the public and community members are encouraged to attend.

To take the survey, visit the official County of Monterey CSW page.