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.
1Start with where they are
You can say"Lots of people come back to work after a long time away. You can do this, one step at a time."
You can ask"How long has it been, and what kind of work did you do before?"
You can ask"What gets in the way: ID, a phone, a ride, health, a record, or confidence?"
You can ask"Do you get SSI, SSDI, SNAP or cash aid right now?"
2Make a plan at the job center (free)
The job center helps people start over. They can help pay for training and work costs.
NM Workforce Connection - Silver City (America's Job Center)
Job search, training and unemployment help
575-538-3737
420 W. Broadway St., Silver City · Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm (may close 12-1 for lunch)
America's Job Center New Mexico - Southwestern Area (SAWDB / SCCOG)
On-the-Job Training (OJT) placements
(575) 538-3737
420 W. Broadway Street, Silver City · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, closed noon-1pm
On SNAP? SNAP job training is free.
New Mexico Health Care Authority - SNAP Employment & Training
SNAP E&T: job search help, training, work experience, apprenticeships for SNAP r
(800) 283-4465
3Programs that fit their situation
Age 55 or older with low income: paid part-time job training.
NM Aging & Long-Term Services Department - Senior Employment (SCSEP)
Paid part-time job training for low-income people 55+
800-432-2080
· Statewide phone/online; weekday business hours
Has a disability or health condition:
NM Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) - Silver City office
Vocational rehabilitation (jobs for people with disabilities)
575-538-5351
3088 32nd St Bypass, Suite A, Silver City · Weekday business hours (call)
Gets SSI or SSDI and worried about losing it? Free benefits counseling:
Social Security Administration - Ticket to Work Help Line
Free work help and benefits counseling (WIPA) for SSI/SSDI recipients
866-968-7842
· Mon-Fri 8am-8pm Eastern
4Brush up skills and confidence
Silver City Public Library
Open Tech Lab - free help with phones, tablets and computers
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · First Tuesday of each month, 3-5 pm
See the guide "Wants to volunteer, or needs community service hours".
At the Gospel MissionPeer support counselors can walk with them. Ask the case worker.
5Explain the gap honestly
You can say"Keep it short and true: 'I was taking care of my health (or family). Now I'm ready to work.'"
See the guide "Needs help with a resume or job applications".
See the guide "Has a job interview coming up".
At the Gospel MissionEmergency clothing for interviews is available. Ask at the clothing bank.
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.