Denver -- A just released report shows the recent economic slump and fewer construction jobs has increased the unemployment rate for Hispanics in the U.S.

The report by the Washington-based Pew Hispanic Center says recent immigrants, particularly from Mexico, have been most affected by the increased unemployment.

Nationally, 8.4 percent of Mexican immigrants were unemployed at the end of the first quarter of this year, up from 5.5 percent last year. The report analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Census Bureau.

The slumping economy has hurt some businesses targeting Hispanics. Aurora business owner Luciano Martinez says fewer people are buying the colorful heart-shaped ornaments he sells to celebrate baptisms and the quinceaneras that are a staple for Hispanic girls turning 15.