These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Check if it's urgent
If they need power for oxygen, a breathing machine or other medical device, see the guide "The power is out and someone needs it for oxygen, medicine or heat".
You can ask"Do you need your phone for a job, a court date, a doctor or your caseworker today?"
At the Gospel MissionThey can use the Mission's phone for local calls.
Silver City Gospel Mission
Phone for local calls
575-388-5071
111 S. Texas St., Silver City · Monday-Friday, 8:30am-1:45pm
2Charge at the library (free)
The Silver City Public Library has charging stations and outlets for library members.
Silver City Public Librarynot yet confirmed: call first
Phone charging stations and outlets
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm; closed Sunday
A library card is free, and people without a home can get one.
Silver City Public Library
Free library card (homeless residents welcome)
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm
Other libraries have Wi-Fi and may let you plug in. Ask at the desk.
Bayard Public Library
Free computers and internet
575-537-6244
1112 Central Ave., Bayard · Mon-Fri 9:30 am-5 pm; Saturday only for special events
Santa Clara Public Librarynot yet confirmed: call first
Free computers and internet
575-537-4120
105 Fort Bayard St., Santa Clara · Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (call to confirm)
3Other places to try
Silver City Street Outreach
Street outreach and drop-in center
575-519-5810
215 W. College Ave., Silver City · Daily, about 10:00am-4:00pm, depending on volunteers (call to confirm)
SPIN (Supporting People In Need)
Seasonal Overnight Shelter (SOS)
575-956-6131
610 N. Silver St. (cul-de-sac at 7th St. and Gold, behind the public works yard), Silver City · Usually opens December 1, every night from 5:00 pm. May be open more of the year: SPIN reported 3,900 bed nights in one quarter of 2025. Call to check.
4Keep it charged longer
Turn on battery saver mode. Turn the screen down. Close apps you aren't using.
Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and location when not needed.
5No phone, or the phone is broken
They may qualify for a free Lifeline phone. See the guide "Needs a phone or a mailing address".
At the Gospel MissionAsk staff about a Lifeline phone from the stuff drawer.
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.