A free directory of 1434 places to get help in and around Grant County, New Mexico: shelter, food, recovery, health care, benefits, legal help and more. Kept up to date by the Silver City Gospel Mission.
Once a month, up to 10 free items of clothing per family member (for example 1 blanket, 1 coat, 1 pair of gloves, 1 pair of shoes), plus household items as needed. You can pick up a food box at the same visit.
Mail service: get your mail hereconfirmed October 2026
Phone, mail and internet
No address? Get your mail at the Mission for free. Use this address: Your Name, c/o Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, NM 88061. Pick it up at the front desk. Ask at the front desk to sign up.
Who it's for: Anyone who needs ID or documents for work, housing or benefits. NO ID AT ALL - suggested order: 1) BIRTH CERTIFICATE (born in NM): Grant County Public Health Office, 2610 N. Silver St., Suite 7 (call 575-538-5318 first; vital records hours are limited). Form 607 plus the homeless Self-Attestation form = free (otherwise $10). With no photo ID, bring 2 or more backup papers (Social Security card, medical records, school records, tax form, baptismal certificate, voter card, tribal or school ID), or have a parent, sibling, grandparent, adult child or spouse with ID request it. Born in another state: use the CDC Where to Write listing. 2) STATE ID: MVD Silver City field office, 1876 Hwy 180 E (book an appointment, 888-683-4636). The Standard ID (not good for flights or federal buildings) is easiest: an identity paper from MVD List A (birth certificate, Social Security card, NM Corrections or federal prison photo ID, DD-214, Medicaid or Medicare card, SNAP/benefits printout from the HCA office, medical record under 1 year old (not ER/urgent care), Mexican consular ID, tribal ID, or an ID expired less than 1 year). If homeless, an affidavit or notarized letter from Mission staff stating where the person stays or receives services replaces the 2 proofs of NM address. The ID card is free if homeless (the person or the Mission signs an attestation; no notary needed) or 75+. A temporary paper ID is given the same day. A REAL ID also needs a birth certificate or passport plus SSN proof and 2 address proofs. 3) SOCIAL SECURITY CARD (free): with the new ID, order online at ssa.gov/myaccount (US citizens 18+, no changes), or start online and finish at the Las Cruces office (2141 Summit Ct.) within 45 days; questions 800-772-1213. 4) JUST RELEASED FROM NM PRISON: ask the probation/parole officer (Silver City 575-388-7312) to help with documents; keep the NMCD photo ID and release papers.
Volunteer: free tax preparer (AARP Tax-Aide)confirmed October 2026
Money and banking · Volunteering
Become an IRS-certified volunteer and prepare free tax returns for low- and moderate-income people, or help as a greeter (client facilitator) or computer helper.
Hours: Tax season, about February to April
Who it's for: No tax experience needed; free training and IRS certification each year (usually December-January). AARP membership not required.
AA meetings in Silver City outside the 180 Clubconfirmed October 2026
Alcohol and drug recovery
Silver City AA meetings not at the 180 Club: Back to Basics (beginners), Step Sisters women's step meeting (hybrid), and an 11th Step meditation meeting. All open.
Hours: Mon 7pm Back to Basics, St. Vincent de Paul Church library, 420 W Market St; Tue noon Step Sisters (women), First Methodist, 300 W College Ave; Sat 10am 11th Step Meditation, 1818 N Silver St
Where: 420 W. Market St. (St. Vincent de Paul Church library), Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: Anyone who wants to stop drinking; Step Sisters is for women.
Volunteer: hospice companionconfirmed October 2026
Seniors and disability · Volunteering
Visit hospice patients at home or in assisted living and nursing homes: read, play music, walk or sit outside, hold a hand, and give family caregivers a break. No hands-on patient care. Part of the 'no one dies alone' program.
Who it's for: Drug test, TB test and background check required (scheduled and paid by Ambercare). Valid driver's license and auto insurance. Training provided. No minimum hours.
Veterans post: fellowship, referrals and possible emergency helpconfirmed October 2026
Veterans · Faith and community
Silver City's American Legion post (Allingham-Golding Post 18). Veterans can find fellowship and ask about help with benefits; the post has given holiday food baskets to families in need. Email post18nm@gmail.com.
American Red Cross - Arizona and New Mexico Region2 services
Free smoke alarm installation (Home Fire Campaign)confirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Weather and disaster
Red Cross volunteers install up to 4 free battery smoke alarms in qualifying homes and give a fire safety plan. Request online; a technician contacts you within about 14 days. Does not repair wired alarms.
Volunteer: Red Cross disaster and shelter volunteerconfirmed October 2026
Weather and disaster · Volunteering
Join the Disaster Action Team that helps families after home fires and local disasters, staff emergency shelters (registration, feeding, dorms), or use a nursing/EMT license in shelters.
Cariño Family Health (Aprendamos Family of Services)
Free home visiting: Nurse-Family Partnership and Parents as Teachersconfirmed October 2026
Medical care · Children, youth and families
Free bilingual home visits from pregnancy to age 5: nurse visits during pregnancy (Nurse-Family Partnership), parenting help (Parents as Teachers), breastfeeding and prenatal education, low-cost car seats with installation, free bassinets.
CASA of Luna, Hidalgo and Grant Counties (Luna County)
CASA volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children (Grant County)confirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Children, youth and families
Trained community volunteers, appointed by the judge, speak up in court for children in abuse and neglect cases. Also recruits and trains new volunteers.
Free online tax filing with IRS-certified volunteer helpconfirmed October 2026
Money and banking
Free online tax filing with IRS backing. File with Help: a certified volunteer prepares your current and past-year returns (2023-2025) remotely. File Myself: free software with support. Helps people claim refunds and credits without an in-person site.
Who it's for: File with Help: household income up to $69,000. File Myself: income up to $89,000 (2026 season). Available in every state, including New Mexico.
Bring: Photo ID, Social Security cards or ITINs for everyone on the return, W-2s/1099s and other income forms; a phone and email.
Deaf Crisis Line (ASL videophone and text)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Domestic and sexual violence · Seniors and disability
24/7 crisis support in ASL by videophone, and by text (text HAND to 839863), for people who are Deaf, hard of hearing or DeafBlind, including crime victims.
Free online depression and bipolar peer support groupsconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis
Free peer-led online support groups for people living with depression or bipolar disorder, plus groups for young adults, veterans, rural, LGBTQ+, and family/friends.
Hours: Many groups weekly; see schedule online
Who it's for: Adults living with depression or bipolar disorder, and their family and friends. Free account on ShareWell required.
Federal Bonding Program (through NM Workforce Connection)
Free job-honesty bond to help people with records get hiredconfirmed October 2026
Jobs and training · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Free insurance bond that covers an employer for the first 6 months after hiring someone with a criminal record or other barrier. Ask Workforce Connection staff once you have a job offer; the bond can often be set up by phone.
Free Christian counseling consultation by phone (marriage and family)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Children, youth and families · Faith and community
Free one-time phone consultation with a licensed or pastoral Christian counselor about marriage, parenting, grief and family problems, plus referrals to Christian counselors near you. Leave a message; a counselor calls back.
Free clothing mending day (with Southwest Women's Fiber Arts Collective)confirmed October 2026
Clothing, showers and laundry
Volunteers from the Southwest Women's Fiber Arts Collective mend clothes free while you wait (hems, tears, buttons, seams, sweaters) and teach mending; learners get a small sewing kit. Held on a Saturday every few months.
Hours: Saturdays 10 am-12 pm, every few months ("Mending Our Ways" repair day). Next: Sat Nov 21, 2026
Volunteer: community makerspace helpersconfirmed October 2026
Jobs and training · Volunteering
Help at the community makerspace: guide visitors, prepare and work events, and help in the woodshop, metal shop, jewelry, textiles and 3D printing rooms. Shifts of 1 to 6 hours.
Where: Silver City, NM
Who it's for: Sign up on The Volunteer Center site.
Volunteer: hospital auxiliaryconfirmed October 2026
Medical care · Volunteering
Hospital volunteers at Gila Regional: front desk information, gift shop and flower sales, Cancer Center help, Teddy Bears program, and running the Medication Assistance Program (MAP). Interview, orientation and training required.
Gila Resources Information Project (GRIP)2 services
Volunteer: monthly community trash cleanupconfirmed October 2026
Faith and community · Volunteering
Join the monthly Pick It Up - Toss No Mas litter cleanup in Silver City, or borrow bags, gloves and vests to run your own neighborhood or church cleanup. Adopt-A-Roadway is also available.
Volunteer: Silver City Watershed Keepers Adopt-A-Streamconfirmed October 2026
Volunteering
Adopt a stretch of local stream: check it each quarter with a phone app, and pick up litter twice a year or help with restoration or water testing. Training and a t-shirt provided.
Who it's for: 18 and older (under 18 with a parent). One-year commitment. Individuals, churches, scouts, schools and businesses welcome. Must sign an agreement and waiver.
Online jail roster - check if someone is being heldconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Children, youth and families
Free online 'Prisoner in Custody' list (JailTracker) shows who is currently held at the Grant County Detention Center. Helps families and staff find a missing client before calling the jail.
Grant County District Court (Sixth Judicial District) - Clerk's Office
District court clerk, self-help forms and pro se reviewconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry
Clerk's office has legal forms and packets for people without a lawyer. A pro se attorney can review your paperwork before it goes to the judge (by appointment through the clerk) but does not give legal advice.
Lost, missing or stranded person in the wilderness - call 911confirmed October 2026
Weather and disaster
Volunteer search and rescue team for Grant County (Gila, Continental Divide Trail, flooded roads). You do not call the team directly: dial 911 - all NM search and rescue is dispatched through New Mexico State Police. Free.
Who it's for: Anyone lost, injured or stranded outdoors, or a person reporting someone missing.
Call first · Free · No ID needed
Volunteer: join Grant County Search and Rescueconfirmed October 2026
Volunteering
Volunteer search and rescue team (not part of county government); missions are called out by NM State Police. No special skills needed, only willingness to train. Monthly meetings with training; email secretary@gcsar-nm.org to ask about joining.
Hours: 3rd Thursday monthly, 6:30 pm meeting plus training, Silver City Annex 2nd floor, 1203 N Hudson St (per team website; confirm)
Where: Silver City, NM
Who it's for: Adults willing to train (FEMA courses, CPR/First Aid).
Volunteer: Habitat builds and ReStoreconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Volunteering
Help build homes with local families, or help at the Habitat ReStore, which resells donated building materials, furniture and household goods to fund home building.
HMS Blessing Box - Silver City (24/7 free food and hygiene)confirmed October 2026
Food · Hygiene and personal care
Free 24/7 'take what you need' box outside the HMS Med Square clinic. Stocked with canned goods, snacks, boxed meals, toothbrushes, soap, feminine products and seasonal items like socks, gloves and hand warmers. No forms, no questions.
Mobile dental unit bringing exams, cleanings, fillings and simple extractions to outlying communities (Lordsburg, Animas and other rural areas), at least one day every other week.
Volunteer: Our Paws' Cause Thrift Shopconfirmed October 2026
Pets · Volunteering
Stock and display donated items, tidy the sales floor, greet and help customers, or join the cleaning crew. Store sales pay for low-cost spay/neuter coupons and shelter improvements.
Renter's Guide and fair housing rightsconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Free Renter's Guide (English and Spanish, with NM Legal Aid) explaining leases, deposits, repairs and eviction rules, plus fair housing rights information.
Free monthly books for children under 5 (Dolly Parton Imagination Library)confirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Children, youth and families
Mails a free, age-right book every month to children from birth to age 5, any family income. Sign up online or with help from El Grito Head Start, GRMC Beginning Years, clinics or child care centers.
Free eye assessment for babies 6-12 monthsconfirmed October 2026
Dental and vision · Children, youth and families
Participating optometrists give a free eye and vision assessment to babies in their first year (ideally 6-12 months) to catch lazy eye, crossed eyes and other problems early.
Hours: By appointment with a participating optometrist
Who it's for: Babies about 6 to 12 months old, regardless of family income or insurance.
KidTalk Warmline (call or text for kids)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Domestic and sexual violence · Children, youth and families
A line kids can call or text to talk with a caring volunteer about bullying, family problems, abuse, relationships, drugs or pregnancy. Callers can stay anonymous.
Land of Enchantment Manufactured Home Owners' Alliance (LEMHOA)
Know-your-rights help for mobile home park residentsconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Group for people who own a mobile or manufactured home on a rented lot. Explains your rights under the NM Mobile Home Park Act (rent increases, late fees, leases, park sales) and holds free monthly Zoom meetings with the NM Center on Law and Poverty.
Hours: Zoom meeting first Thursday of every month, 6:15 pm
Who it's for: Manufactured or mobile home owners who rent their lot in a park or land-lease community in New Mexico, and their families.
Local LGBTQ+ community, support and youth programconfirmed October 2026
Children, youth and families · Faith and community
Local nonprofit for LGBTQ+ people: community events, education, resources, and an after-school program offering connection, leadership and support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Volunteer: adult literacy, ESL and GED tutorsconfirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Volunteering
Tutor adults one-on-one or in small groups in reading, English as a Second Language, high school equivalency (GED/HiSET) prep, citizenship test prep, computer and money skills.
Hours: Office Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; tutoring during library hours
Where: 515 W. College Ave. (inside Silver City Public Library), Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: Patient, kind people who like teaching. Fill out a tutor intake form and sign a background check form in front of a notary; Literacy Link pays the background check fee. Some training provided. Flexible schedule.
Lawyers Serving Warriors: free help with discharge upgradesconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Veterans
Free volunteer lawyers for veterans of any era, anywhere, on 4 Defense Department issues: discharge upgrades (an other-than-honorable discharge can block VA benefits), medical retirement, Combat-Related Special Compensation and TSGLI. Apply online.
Who it's for: Veterans and service members needing help with a discharge upgrade, medical retirement, CRSC or TSGLI. Does NOT take VA claims, criminal, family or other cases.
Overdose prevention phone line (stay on the line while using)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Alcohol and drug recovery
Harm reduction hotline: a volunteer stays on the phone while you use. If you stop responding (about 30 seconds), they send EMS to your address. No lecturing; recovery help if you ask.
Who it's for: Anyone in the U.S. who is going to use drugs alone. Caller gives exact location and call-back number; real name not required. Alternate line: 877-696-1996.
New Mexico Borderland Animal Rescue Coalition (NM BARC)
Volunteer: foster, walk and transport rescue animalsconfirmed October 2026
Pets · Volunteering
All-volunteer, foster-based animal rescue. Volunteers foster pets at home, feed and walk dogs at area shelters, help with trap-neuter-return for cats, drive animals to other shelters, and promote adoptable pets online.
Renter and mobile home resident rights helpconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Statewide advocacy group that takes calls on housing problems, including eviction and mobile/manufactured home park questions, and publishes tenant information.
24/7 problem gambling helpline and treatment referralsconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Alcohol and drug recovery
24/7 bilingual (English/Spanish) confidential crisis line for gambling problems. Refers to certified gambling counselors, intensive outpatient and Gamblers Anonymous; help for families and youth too.
New Mexico Courts - Magistrate Court Mediation Program
Free mediation by Zoom for magistrate court civil casesconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Trained volunteer mediators help both sides of a magistrate court civil case try to settle it over Zoom. Covers general civil cases and landlord-tenant disputes over security deposits and damage to a unit. Mediators do not give legal advice.
Who it's for: People with a general civil case or deposit/damage landlord-tenant case in any New Mexico magistrate court (including Silver City and Bayard) that the judge sends to mediation.
New Mexico Courts HelpLine (Administrative Office of the Courts)
Eviction and landlord-tenant self-help guide and formsconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Plain-language court guide on eviction notices (3-, 7- and 30-day), the court process, how to answer a petition, plus court forms and a June 2026 list of free legal help for renters.
Who it's for: Any New Mexico tenant or landlord, including people facing an eviction case in magistrate court.
Where: 2005 Hwy 180 W, Suite 500, Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: Low-income residents
Call first · Free
Free statewide legal teleclinics (lawyer consultation by phone)confirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry
Monthly statewide teleclinics where a volunteer lawyer calls you for a free consultation: divorce/custody, support, debts, wills and probate, landlord/tenant, jobs and unemployment, kinship guardianship. Apply online ahead of time; spots are limited.
Hours: Monthly; apply from the 15th to the end of the month before (Nov 19, 2026, 1-4pm; apply Oct 15-31)
Who it's for: New Mexico residents with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines who also meet asset limits. Civil (non-criminal) issues only. Depends on attorney availability. ASL interpreter on request.
Bring: A phone number where you can be reached and basic income information for the online application.
Free eye exam and glasses vouchers for kids without Medicaid or insuranceconfirmed October 2026
Dental and vision · Children, youth and families
Gives eye exam and glasses vouchers to students ages 3-18 who need vision care but have no Medicaid or private insurance (or no local eye doctor taking Medicaid). Also free vision screenings for ages 3-9 at schools and daycares.
Who it's for: New Mexico students ages 3-18 who need vision care and are not eligible for Medicaid, have no private insurance, or live where no eye professional accepts Medicaid.
New Mexico Medical Reserve Corps (NM Department of Health)
Volunteer: Medical Reserve Corps (medical and non-medical)confirmed October 2026
Weather and disaster · Volunteering
State registry of volunteers who help during public health emergencies and disasters (clinics, shelters, outreach). Both licensed health workers and non-medical helpers can sign up online through NM MRC Serves.
Who it's for: Adults; medical and non-medical volunteers. Upload training records (FEMA, CPR/First Aid) and sign code of ethics.
Mobile crisis intervention team (limited)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis
Mobile crisis team that responds to people in acute distress with on-site assessment, de-escalation and support, to avoid hospital or police involvement and connect to mental health care.
Volunteer: join a search and rescue teamconfirmed October 2026
Weather and disaster · Volunteering
Statewide council of volunteer search and rescue teams that respond to missions run by NM Department of Public Safety. They help you find the nearest team and training.
Who it's for: Join a member team and train. Email the membership director to get started.
Become a foster or kinship (relative) parentconfirmed October 2026
Children, youth and families · Volunteering
Get licensed to care for a child in foster care, including relatives or family friends caring for a child (kinship). Training and home study through CYFD; children get full medical coverage, child care help and behavioral health support.
Who it's for: Adults over 18 (single, married or cohabiting). Federal and local background checks for all adults in the home, physical exam, required training and home study. Process takes about 4-6 months.
NM Corrections Department - Probation and Parole District 6A
Help getting birth certificate, Social Security card and ID while on supervisionconfirmed October 2026
ID and documents · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Probation and parole officers can help people under supervision get vital records (birth certificate, Social Security card) and connect them to housing, food, clothing, transportation and treatment help. Ask your officer.
ID, Social Security card and birth certificate before release from prisonconfirmed October 2026
ID and documents · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Every NM state prison has an MVD kiosk that can issue a REAL ID or driver's license before release. Reentry coordinators and classification officers also help request a replacement Social Security card and birth certificate.
Hours: Through facility reentry staff
Who it's for: People held in NM Corrections Department prisons. Reentry planning starts about 210 days before release. Family or the Mission can encourage the person to ask their reentry coordinator or classification officer to start ID paperwork early.
Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (seniors and WIC families)confirmed October 2026
Food · Seniors and disability
Yearly benefit of about $30-$50 to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets and farm stands. Seniors apply online at nmwic.org/fmnp (opens mid-February) or with a paper form from a senior center or WIC office.
Hours: Season runs about July through October; applications open mid-February
Who it's for: Low-income seniors 60 and older (55 and older for Native Americans) who meet income limits; active WIC families qualify automatically (apply at local WIC office from July 1).
NM Department of Veterans Services - Benefits Division2 services
State veteran property tax exemptions and reduced vehicle feesconfirmed October 2026
Benefits · Veterans · Utilities and bills
Up to $10,000 off the taxable value of a veteran's property; full exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability on their home; reduced car registration for veterans without enough property; free state park pass.
Who it's for: NM-resident veterans (honorable discharge) and unmarried surviving spouses; disabled veteran exemption requires a VA service-connected disability rating.
Veteran college scholarships (Vietnam, Wartime, Children of Deceased Veterans)confirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Veterans
State scholarships that pay tuition (plus books/fees) at NM public colleges for Vietnam veterans, veterans with post-1990 campaign medals, and children of certain veterans who died in service. Also in-state tuition for veterans and families.
New Mexico Works (job help for families on TANF cash aid)confirmed October 2026
Benefits · Jobs and training · Children, youth and families
Job program for people getting TANF cash aid. Career Link pays for part-time (20 hr/week) work with private employers; Wage Subsidy places people in full-time government jobs. Also helps with HSE (GED) and training.
Veteran employment services and Jobs4Vetsconfirmed October 2026
Jobs and training · Veterans
Veterans and eligible spouses get first access to job services. Veteran Employment Representatives at America's Job Centers help with job search, training and employer connections. Jobs4Vets job board online.
New Mexico PreK (free preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds)confirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Children, youth and families
Free, voluntary PreK for 3- and 4-year-olds at schools and child care centers (Grant County sites include El Grito and WNMU). Not based on income. Find sites on the PreK map, then contact the provider.
Constituent Services (complaints about benefits handling)confirmed October 2026
Benefits
HCA's constituent liaison handles complaints and stuck cases about HCA services (SNAP, Medicaid, cash aid) when the local office or call center has not solved the problem.
Medicaid choice for Native Americans (IHS, tribal clinics, fee-for-service)confirmed October 2026
Medical care · Benefits · Native American services
Most Native Americans on NM Medicaid can choose to stay in regular fee-for-service Medicaid instead of a Turquoise Care plan, and can always use IHS or tribal clinics either way. Customer service helps enroll or switch.
Who it's for: American Indian and Alaska Native people on NM Medicaid. Can opt out of a plan in the first 90 days of each 12-month lock-in period. An HCA Native American Liaison is reachable by an online contact form.
Move-In and Eviction Prevention fund (MIAEP) - serious mental illnessconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Mental health and crisis · Utilities and bills
State behavioral health fund that pays rent, damage deposit, utility deposits or utility bills (reported up to $1,000 every 3 years) for people with serious mental illness who are homeless or at risk. Applied for through a contracted local provider.
Who it's for: Applicant or dependent has a diagnosed serious mental illness or co-occurring substance use disorder, is homeless or at risk of homelessness, and is active in behavioral health services.
Bring: Proof of diagnosis/active services from your provider, ID, lease or bill
Office of Fair Hearings: appeal a SNAP, Medicaid, cash aid or LIHEAP decisionconfirmed October 2026
Benefits · Legal help, courts and re-entry
If benefits are denied, cut or closed, ask for a fair hearing by phone, mail, email or fax. A judge usually hears the case by phone. Medicaid health plan problems: finish the plan's own appeal first. SNAP: ask within 90 days of the notice.
Who it's for: Anyone who applied for or gets SNAP, Medicaid (Turquoise Care), TANF/General Assistance, LIHEAP or other HCA benefits, or child support enforcement, and disagrees with a decision. A helper can be named as authorized representative.
Bring: Name and case number, the notice you got, the reason you disagree and what benefit was affected, and a phone number to reach you.
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) grocery money for kidsconfirmed October 2026
Food · Children, youth and families
$120 per child on an EBT card for summer groceries. Kids on free/reduced school meals, SNAP, Medicaid, or who are homeless, migrant or in foster care get it automatically by mail; others apply. 2026 deadline was Aug 22; next round opens spring 2027.
Who it's for: School-age children attending a school that offers the federal school lunch program, with household income at or below 185% of poverty, or automatically eligible through SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, free/reduced meals, or homeless/migrant/foster status.
Turquoise Care Community Benefit (in-home care instead of a nursing home)confirmed October 2026
Benefits · Seniors and disability
Medicaid program for people who qualify for nursing-home care but want to stay home: personal care aides (a family member may be paid), respite, adult day, home-delivered meals, home changes, emergency alert buttons. Ask the plan care coordinator.
Who it's for: Turquoise Care (Medicaid) members who meet nursing facility level of care, assessed at home by their plan's care coordinator. Not for 24-hour care. People not on Turquoise Care: call the Aging and Disability Resource Center 1-800-432-2080.
NM Health Care Authority - Income Support Division (Grant County office)
State burial assistance (up to $200) for people on assistanceconfirmed October 2026
Benefits · Death and burial
The state may pay up to $200 toward funeral costs for someone who was getting state financial or medical assistance, when the estate and legally responsible relatives cannot pay and no one else will. Family or the funeral home can request it.
Where: 3088 32nd St Bypass, Suite A, Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: Person who died was receiving state financial/medical assistance; resources available for the funeral under $600 (counts cash, burial insurance, Social Security/VA death benefits); spouse or parents of minor unable to pay. Claims decided within 30 days.
Bring: Death certificate, funeral home bill, info on any insurance or death benefits
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) help for familiesconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Native American services
State MMIP program: 'What to do if someone goes missing' guide, connects families of missing or murdered Native relatives to law enforcement, victim services and other resources; hosts Missing in New Mexico Day for filing reports and DNA.
Where: 1220 S. St. Francis Dr., Santa Fe, NM (map)
Who it's for: Families and friends of missing or murdered Indigenous people in New Mexico. Report a missing person to police right away (911); there is no waiting period.
NM Public Regulation Commission - Consumer Relations Division
Utility complaints and shutoff help (electric, gas, water, phone)confirmed October 2026
Phone, mail and internet · Utilities and bills
State office that investigates complaints against regulated utilities (PNM, NM Gas, electric co-ops, phone and some water companies), including shutoff notices, billing disputes and winter shutoff protection.
Who it's for: Any New Mexico customer of a utility regulated by the PRC. Helpful when a shutoff is coming and the utility will not agree to a payment plan, or a LIHEAP household is threatened with winter shutoff (Nov 15-Mar 15).
Bring: Account number, shutoff notice, bills and notes of calls with the utility
Safe at Home address confidentiality for survivorsconfirmed October 2026
Domestic and sexual violence · ID and documents · Phone, mail and internet
Gives survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking a free substitute address to use for school, work and agencies. The state forwards their mail so the abuser cannot find their new home.
Who it's for: NM residents who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, attempted sexual assault or stalking and who have moved (or will soon move) to a place unknown to the abuser. Parents/guardians can apply for a child.
Bring: Application packet completed with an application assistant at a DV or sexual assault program; must be notarized
Veterans Justice Outreach (veterans in jail or court)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Legal help, courts and re-entry · Veterans
VA staff work with jails, courts and police so veterans who are arrested, in jail or leaving incarceration get VA mental health and substance use treatment and housing help.
Veterans Justice Outreach and Health Care for Re-entry Veteransconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Veterans
VA staff work with veterans in jail, in court (including treatment courts) or leaving prison. They link them to VA mental health, addiction treatment, housing and other VA services and plan for release.
Who it's for: Veterans involved with the justice system: arrested, in jail, facing court, or within months of release from state or federal prison. VA health care eligibility applies to some services.
Bring: DD-214 if available; name of the jail/court and case information.
Parkinson's Helpline (1-800-4PD-INFO)confirmed October 2026
Medical care · Seniors and disability
Free helpline with trained Parkinson's information specialists: answers questions about treatment, daily living and caregiving, and refers to local support groups, exercise classes, doctors and help with medicine costs or respite. English and Spanish.
Free Home Energy Checkup and free fridge/thermostat (income-qualified)confirmed October 2026
Utilities and bills
Free in-home or virtual energy checkup with free energy-saving items installed; income-qualified customers may also get a free refrigerator and smart thermostat. Free Easy Savings Kit (LED bulbs, power strips) too.
Emergency help paying a PNM electric billconfirmed October 2026
Utilities and bills
PNM (Silver City's electric company) gives once-a-year grants toward past-due electric bills for households facing disconnection. In Silver City, apply by appointment through St. Francis Newman Center (575-538-3662) or Hidalgo Medical Services Family Supp
Where: 114 W. 11th St. (HMS Family Support), Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: PNM electric customers who get LIHEAP or SNAP this year and have a past-due or disconnect notice (seniors 60+ do not need to be past due). Up to $120 per year total; seniors automatically get the maximum. Silver City partners: St. Francis Newman Center, 914 W. 13th St., 575-538-3662; HMS Family Support, 114 W. 11th St., 575-597-2745.
Bring: Proof of current-year LIHEAP or SNAP, past-due or disconnect notice (not needed for seniors), photo ID matching the name on the PNM account
Recovery Dharma online recovery meetings (Buddhist-inspired)confirmed October 2026
Alcohol and drug recovery
Peer-led recovery meetings using meditation and Buddhist teachings instead of the 12 steps; for any addiction. 200+ free online meetings a week. No in-person group found near Silver City.
Hours: Daily online; see schedule
Who it's for: Anyone wanting recovery from any addiction (substances or behaviors). No religion required.
Support for families after a homicide or violent deathconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Legal help, courts and re-entry · Death and burial
Free advocacy for families after a murder or other violent death: explains the police and court process, support groups (some virtual), and referrals for counseling, legal help and money help. Cannot pay for burials. English/Spanish.
Trained Roadrunner staff help people apply for SNAP (food stamps), answer questions and help with keeping benefits under new work rules. Call, email snap@rrfb.org or fill out the web form; they call back within about 2 business days.
Who it's for: Anyone in New Mexico who may qualify for SNAP, including single adults, seniors, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness.
SNAP Outreach Hotline (help applying or recertifying by phone)confirmed October 2026
Food · Benefits
Trained staff pre-screen for SNAP and help people complete or renew a SNAP application by phone, statewide. They also train partner agencies and volunteers to help clients apply.
Who it's for: Anyone in New Mexico who wants help applying for or renewing SNAP, including people experiencing homelessness, seniors, people with disabilities and working families.
Bring: ID, income information and household details if available; staff can explain what documents are needed.
Support after miscarriage, stillbirth or infant deathconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Children, youth and families · Death and burial
Phone and email support, online support groups and chats, peer companions and free resource packets for families whose baby died during pregnancy, at birth or in early infancy. Spanish support (Esperanza).
Town court for traffic tickets, town ordinance violations and finesconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry
Handles Town of Silver City citations and misdemeanors. Fines can be paid by credit/debit card over the phone or in person. Call to ask about payment plans, community service, or clearing a failure-to-appear warrant.
Volunteer: museum greeter and store cashierconfirmed October 2026
Faith and community · Volunteering
Welcome visitors at the front desk, invite them to events, and help with museum tasks; or run the museum store register, help customers and keep the store tidy. Training on exhibits and local history provided.
Open Tech Lab - free help with phones, tablets and computersconfirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Phone, mail and internet
Staff and volunteers answer any tech question and help you start using the library's free digital services (Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy and more). Bring your own device. Periodic free mini-workshops too.
Silver City Senior Center (operated by the Village of Santa Clara)
Senior center and Meals on Wheels sign-upconfirmed October 2026
Food · Seniors and disability
Senior center; free Grab-n-Go lunch Mon-Fri 12-12:30 (registration required, donation optional); Meals on Wheels for homebound seniors. Run by the Village of Santa Clara since July 2026.
Care Solace - free help finding a counselor (Silver students and families)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Children, youth and families
District-paid service that matches Silver Schools students, families and staff with a mental health counselor that fits their insurance (incl. Medicaid) or no insurance. Call anytime or search anonymously online. Not a crisis line - use 988.
Victim advocate (Victim/Witness Assistance Program)confirmed October 2026
Domestic and sexual violence · Legal help, courts and re-entry
DA victim advocates help crime victims understand their rights and follow their case through court. Silver City PD has no separate published victim advocate line; call the DA main office and ask for the Victim/Witness Assistance Program.
Sixth Judicial District Attorney's Office - Grant County
Victim advocates for crime victimsconfirmed October 2026
Domestic and sexual violence · Legal help, courts and re-entry
The prosecutor's office for Grant, Luna and Hidalgo counties. Victim advocates explain the court process, keep victims informed about hearings, help with victim impact statements and can help apply for crime victim reparation money.
Who it's for: Victims of any crime being prosecuted in Grant County (the office does not limit help to the crimes listed in the NM Constitution), plus witnesses. The website has help pages for unsafe relationships, temporary orders of protection, case status, and Spanish speakers.
Bring: Police report or case number if you have it
The Commons Center for Food Security & Sustainability4 services
Volunteer: community service hours at The Commonsconfirmed October 2026
Legal help, courts and re-entry · Volunteering
People who need to complete community service hours can do them at The Commons (front desk, snack bags, cleanup and other tasks). Hours are tracked through The Volunteer Center.
Volunteer: food pantry helpers (Choose Your Own and Saturday pantry)confirmed October 2026
Food · Volunteering
Help with check-in, registration, restocking and handing out food at the grocery-style Choose Your Own Pantry, and set up and distribute food at the monthly Saturday pantry.
Who it's for: 18 and older. Requires walking and lifting. Shifts about 2 to 2.5 hours. Sign up for a shift on The Volunteer Center site or fill out a short application at The Commons.
Volunteer: The Volunteer Center of Grant County (sign up online)confirmed October 2026
Faith and community · Volunteering
Free online sign-up site run by The Commons. Make a profile, pick causes, and sign up for shifts at 30+ Grant County groups (food, animals, museums, outreach, schools). Sends reminders and tracks hours.
Online support chats for parents who lost a childconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Death and burial
Peer support after the death of a child of any age: live online chat rooms most evenings (special rooms for suicide loss, infant loss, no surviving children), private Facebook groups and free webinars. Nearest in-person chapter is Albuquerque.
Town hires water/sewer crew, streets, parks and recreation, police, library and office staff. Recent posts included water and sewer crew members and police officers.
24/7 support line for families of fallen military membersconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Veterans · Death and burial
Free 24/7 helpline, peer mentors, grief support groups and casework for anyone grieving the death of someone who served in the military (any cause of death, including suicide or illness).
Who it's for: Family members, friends and fellow service members grieving the death of anyone who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, no matter how or when they died.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Fair Housing
Housing discrimination hotline and complaintsconfirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Legal help, courts and re-entry
Free federal line to report housing discrimination (refused rental, different terms, no reasonable accommodation for disability, harassment) based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or having children.
Who it's for: Anyone who believes a landlord, property manager, lender or housing provider discriminated against them. New Mexico complaints are handled by HUD's Fort Worth regional office. TTY 800-927-9275.
Bring: Name and address of the landlord or company, address of the housing, dates and what happened
Free headstone, marker or medallion for a veteran's graveconfirmed October 2026
Veterans · Death and burial
VA provides a government headstone or marker (or a medallion for a private headstone) for an eligible veteran's grave in any cemetery, including private and unmarked graves. Apply with VA Form 40-1330.
Who it's for: Veterans not dishonorably discharged and service members who died on active duty (minimum service rules apply). Spouses/children only in national, state or tribal veterans cemeteries.
Bring: Copy of DD214 or other discharge papers (not originals); VA Form 40-1330
Vet Center Call Center (24/7 talk line, readjustment counseling)confirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Veterans
Free, confidential 24/7 line staffed by combat veterans and family members. Talk about military experience or getting back to civilian life, and get connected to the nearest Vet Center for free counseling (including military sexual trauma).
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)confirmed October 2026
ID and documents · Veterans
Free photo ID card for veterans enrolled in VA health care. Request online (upload photo and ID) or ask the VA enrollment coordinator or at your next VA visit (Silver City VA clinic) to get the photo taken.
US Postal Service - Silver City Post Office2 services
General Delivery mail for people without an addressconfirmed October 2026
Phone, mail and internet
People without a home address can receive mail at 'Your Name, General Delivery, Silver City, NM 88061' and pick it up at the counter with ID. Mail is usually held up to 30 days.
USDA National Hunger Hotline (Hunger Free America)
National Hunger Hotline - find food near you (English and Spanish)confirmed October 2026
Food · Benefits
Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY (Spanish 1-877-8-HAMBRE) to find nearby food pantries, meal sites, SNAP, WIC and summer meals for kids. Also by text and online. Good backup when a client is traveling or moving.
SSVF veteran rent, deposit and rehousing help (serves Grant County)confirmed October 2026
Housing and rent help · Veterans · Utilities and bills
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): rapid rehousing, homelessness prevention, rent and utility payments and case management for veterans. Grant, Hidalgo, Luna and Sierra counties are in its service area.
Who it's for: Veterans (Active, Reserve or National Guard service) or an un-remarried surviving spouse, living in New Mexico, who are homeless or at risk of losing housing. Discharge must not be dishonorable; some programs need other-than-dishonorable or specific service. Apply even without a DD214 or ID - they will help.
Bring: DD214 or discharge papers if you have them, ID, proof of income, lease or eviction notice
24/7 veteran peer support lineconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis · Veterans
Confidential 24/7 peer support by phone, chat or email from fellow veterans and military family members. Separate from the VA; talking does not affect benefits or status.
Free counseling for WNMU studentsconfirmed October 2026
Mental health and crisis
Licensed therapists see enrolled WNMU students at no charge (paid by student fees). First floor of the Juan Chacon Building, Suite 139. After hours: 988 or the HMS crisis line 855-422-4334.
TimelyCare free 24/7 virtual counseling and medical visits for WNMU studentsconfirmed October 2026
Medical care · Mental health and crisis · Phone, mail and internet
Free 24/7 video/phone care for WNMU students: 'Talk Now' with a mental health professional any hour, scheduled counseling, and medical visits for common illnesses. Over 240 languages incl. Spanish. Sign in through Mustang Express.
Hours: 24/7
Who it's for: All WNMU undergraduate and graduate students, including online students in any state.
WNMU Student Accessibility Office (disability accommodations)confirmed October 2026
School, GED and reading · Seniors and disability
Sets up academic accommodations for WNMU students with disabilities (testing, alternate formats, etc.). Submit the Petition for Services form; staff schedule an intake. Questions by phone, email (accessibility@wnmu.edu) or walk-in.
Where: Global Resource Center, Meeting Room E, 1000 W. College Ave., Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: WNMU students enrolled in at least one credit hour who have a disability as defined by the ADA. Medical documentation is requested at intake.
Student One Stop (basic needs center)confirmed October 2026
Benefits · School, GED and reading
WNMU basic-needs center for students: the student food pantry, SNAP help and referrals to housing, health and other services. 3rd floor of the Student Memorial Building; weekdays 8am-4pm; bring your Mustang Card.
Where: Student Life Office, 3rd Floor, Student Memorial Building, 1000 W College Ave, Silver City, NM (map)
Who it's for: WNMU students (on-campus and online); show Mustang Card. The monthly mobile food pantry (1st Wednesday) is open to students, staff, faculty and the community.
Wellbriety online recovery circles (Native American 12-step)confirmed October 2026
Alcohol and drug recovery · Native American services
Culturally based Native American recovery circles (Medicine Wheel 12 Steps) held on Zoom and other online platforms. The website lists meetings with times and facilitator contacts.
Free credit reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnionnot yet confirmed: call first
Money and banking
The only official free credit report site. Anyone can check each of the 3 credit reports for free every week, online, by phone (mailed within 15 days) or by mail.
Some help people need still isn't available in Grant County, like inpatient detox, a local public defender office, and help applying for disability. See the list, and tell us if your organization can help fill one, or if you know of help we've missed.
📞 We need volunteers to keep this guide up to date
Phone numbers, hours and services change all the time. Volunteers call each place to make sure its listing is still right, so no one makes a trip for nothing. You can do it from home, on your own schedule. An hour a week makes a real difference.
For other organizations: this directory is free to use and share. Download the whole directory (spreadsheet, updated live).
Please credit the Silver City Gospel Mission, and remember that hours and services change: call ahead before sending someone.
Kept by the Silver City Gospel Mission · 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, NM 88061 · 575-388-5071 · Updated October 28, 2026.
Information comes from the providers themselves, public sources and our staff. It is offered as a help, not a guarantee; please call ahead.