Use when someone has itching, bites, a rash, or bugs in hair, clothes or bedding, and needs treatment and a way to clean their things without shame.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
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.
1It happens to anyone
You can say"This is common and treatable. It's not about being dirty."
2Head or body lice
Lice treatment shampoo is sold at drugstores without a prescription. Follow the box exactly, then comb out eggs with a fine comb.
Repeat in 7-9 days if the box says to.
Body lice live in clothing seams. Washing clothes and bedding in hot water and a hot dryer, and a shower, usually clears them.
3Scabies
Scabies is tiny mites under the skin. It itches worst at night, often between fingers, wrists, waist and groin.
It needs a prescription cream or pills from a clinic. Everyone they sleep near should be treated at the same time.
Hidalgo Medical Services
Tranquil Skies Community Health Center: Same-day medical appointments
Bed bugs bite at night, often in lines on the arms, legs or back. Look for small dark spots on mattress seams.
Dry clothes, bags and bedding on HIGH heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills them.
Things that can't be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for several weeks.
5Clean clothes and a shower
At the Gospel MissionShowers and laundry are at the Mission on weekdays, 9:30-11. Ask quietly at the front desk.
At the Gospel MissionThe Mission's clothing bank can help replace clothes (once a month, 10 items per family member).
If the rash gets red, hot, swollen, or has pus, see a doctor. Scratched skin can get infected.
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 Is something out of date?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.
📞 We need volunteers to keep this guide up to date. You can help from home, an hour a week. See how →
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.