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.
1Find out what they need
You can ask"Do you have a phone that works? Can you get mail somewhere safe?"
You can say"Agencies send letters and call. Having a phone and an address helps you keep your benefits and your place on waitlists."
2Get a free government phone
At the Gospel MissionAsk staff about a government (Lifeline) phone from the stuff drawer.
Lifeline gives a free phone and monthly service to people on SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, public housing or a veterans pension, or with low income.
TruConnect
Free Lifeline cell phone service (Silver City area)
800-430-0443
· Phone/online
Assurance Wireless (T-Mobile)
Free Lifeline cell phone service (Silver City area)
888-321-5880
· Phone/online
SafeLink Wireless (TracFone / Verizon)
Free Lifeline cell phone service (Silver City area)
800-723-3546
· Phone/online
Bring
- ID
- proof of SNAP, Medicaid or other benefits, or proof of income
NM Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing - TEDP
Free loaned phones and tablets for people with hearing or speech loss
800-489-8536
· Statewide phone/online; Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm
3Get mail at the Mission (free)
At the Gospel MissionThe Mission is a free mail service for people. Anyone without a safe address can get mail here.
Their address is: Their Name, c/o Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, NM 88061.
They pick it up at the front desk, Mon-Fri 9:00am-1:45pm.
At the Gospel MissionAsk at the front desk to sign them up.
4Or set up General Delivery mail at the post office
People without an address can get mail at the main post office for free.
Their address is: Their Name, General Delivery, Silver City, NM 88061.
They pick it up at the counter at 500 N. Hudson St. Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 10am-noon.
US Postal Service - Silver City Post Office
Post office (General Delivery mail)
575-538-2831
500 N Hudson St, Silver City · Retail Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm; Sat 10am-12pm
5Tell agencies the new address and phone
Help them update it with each place that sends them mail.
At the Gospel MissionUse YES New Mexico (yes.state.nm.us) to update SNAP and Medicaid contact details.
6Get free internet and computer help
Silver City Public Library
Free computers, internet and Wi-Fi
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm; closed Sun
Adults with a library card can borrow a Wi-Fi hotspot for one week.
Silver City Public Library
Wi-Fi hotspot lending
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City
GCFGlobal LearnFree
Free online lessons: computer basics, email, internet, Microsoft Office, job sea
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
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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.