Last Updated on September 6, 2023 by Lori Pace
If you’re a single mom in New Mexico, navigating assistance programs can be daunting. I understand the challenges firsthand and want to make this process as clear as possible for you. In this article, I’ll guide you through various programs that offer support, especially in the realms of housing, utilities, nutrition, and more.
Assistance Programs for Single Moms in New Mexico
Housing and Urban Development Rental Assistance (HUD) for Single Mothers
HUD plays a crucial role in providing quality, affordable rental homes to low-income individuals and families in New Mexico. To kickstart your journey, visit the HUD Resource Locator; this tool helps you find an affordable place in your area. Next, reach out to the Public and Indian Housing customer service at 800-955-2232 or visit the official U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website.
For a more comprehensive understanding of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in New Mexico, consider exploring the landlord-tenant laws on the American Apartment Owners Association website.
St. Elizabeth Shelter
For those facing homelessness, the St. Elizabeth Shelter is a beacon of hope. They offer emergency shelters, food, case management, counseling, and supportive housing. This organization caters to a diverse range of needs, including shelters for women, men, families, and housing for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as seniors. To delve deeper into their services, please visit the St. Elizabeth Shelter website or call them at 505-982-6611.
Utility Bill Assistance for Single Mothers
Balancing utility bills can be challenging, but several agencies are here to help. To begin, explore ways to reduce your utility costs and make your home more energy-efficient on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s page about Home Ownership in New Mexico.
Additionally, here are some agencies that specialize in assisting with utility bills:
- Iamosa Multi-Service Center: 505-836-8800
- East Central Multi-Service Center: 505-256-2070
- HELP: Bernalillo County: 505-265-3714
- John Marshall Multi-Service Center: 505-848-1345
- Los Griegos Center: 505-761-4050
- Deming – Love Inc.: 575-544-2400
- Faith at Work Community: 505-471-6323
- Santa Fe Senior Citizen Center: 505-955-4799
- Ruidoso Southeast Community Action Corp: 575-257-6937
SNAP for Single Moms in New Mexico
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) aims to improve the quality of life for low-income individuals and families by providing food assistance through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. This program supplements your food budget, making it feasible to purchase more nutritious food for your family. Begin your application online or gather more information on the Benefit.gov website. You can also contact SNAP at 800-432-6217 or 800-221-5689. Additionally, you can locate a SNAP field office through the Human Services Department.
Low-Income Telephone Assistance Program (LITAP) for Single Mothers
Staying connected is crucial, and the Low Income Telephone Assistance Program (LITAP) can help ease the financial burden of phone services for eligible applicants.
Through the Lifeline program, which receives federal funding, you can receive a monthly discount of $13.50 to reduce phone bill expenses. The Link-Up program provides a 50% discount, up to $30, for telephone connection installation, benefiting those eligible for Lifeline or Tribal Lifeline.
Initiating your application is simple; you can do so on the LITAP webpage or contact them directly at 575-748-1241.
Energy Assistance
The Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to low-income individuals and families, aiding them in covering heating and cooling expenses. This program extends its support to both renters and homeowners, with eligibility determined by the household’s gross income. For detailed information, visit the New Mexico Human Services Department website or contact them at 505-827-7258 or 800-283-4465. Tribal households can apply through their tribe’s social services contact list.
Visit or call 505-827-7258 or 800-283-4465 to learn more.
You can also apply through the tribe’s social services contact list for tribal households.
Prescription Assistance Program
Accessing essential medications is crucial, and the New Mexico Prescription Drug Card makes it more affordable. This card is available to all residents, providing savings of up to 75% on medications. It’s widely accepted at pharmacies like Albertsons Sav-on, Smith’s, CVS pharmacy, Kmart, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and over 56,000 participating national and regional pharmacies.
Obtaining the card is hassle-free; simply print your own pre-activated Prescription Drug Card from the New Mexico Prescription Drug Card website or contact them at 505-764-3740 for further details.
Foreclosure Assistance for Single Mothers
Programs like mortgage company services can help reduce your house payment or provide financial assistance temporarily. So, please visit Keep Your Home New Mexico to learn more about stopping foreclosure.
What If You Need Additional Support for Single Moms?
If you find that these assistance programs are still out of reach, consider exploring options for free housing, even if they may not be located within New Mexico. This additional support can alleviate some of the burdens you may be facing as a single mom.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Many programs and organizations are here to support you during difficult times, helping you build a brighter future for you and your family in New Mexico.
