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.
1Talk about what they need
You can ask"How much can you pay each month, including utilities?"
You can ask"Do you have a pet, a car, children, or need to be near a bus stop or work?"
You can ask"Are you in recovery? Would a sober house help you?"
You can say"Sharing can save a lot of money. Let's find a safe setup and get it in writing."
2Places to look
Housing New Mexico (NM Mortgage Finance Authority)
Find affordable and subsidized apartments (online search)
505-843-6880
In recovery? Shared recovery homes give structure and support.
SPIN (Supporting People In Need)
Recovery / transitional homes
575-494-1128
1620 E. Pine St. (main office), Silver City
Oxford House
Oxford Houses - Las Cruces
301-587-2916
Las Cruces · Interviews held weekly at each house; see vacancy site
SPIN (Supporting People In Need)
Permanent supportive housing
575-494-1128
1620 E. Pine St. (main office), Silver City
3Stay safe and avoid scams
You can say"Always see the room in person before you pay anything."
You can ask"Is the person who rents the room the owner, or on the lease?" If they are a renter, the landlord must say yes.
Afraid of someone they live with now? See the guide "Afraid to go home because of a roommate or landlord".
4Put the deal in writing
Help them write a simple agreement and both sign it. Each keeps a copy.
Write down: rent and due date; who pays which bills; deposit; house rules (people, smoking, pets, noise, food); how much notice to move out.
Housing New Mexico (NM Mortgage Finance Authority)
Renter's Guide and fair housing rights
505-843-6880
5Check how it affects benefits
At the Gospel MissionOur case worker can help them report changes.
Silver City Gospel Mission
Case worker: housing and benefits help
575-388-5071
111 S. Texas St., Silver City · Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00am-1:00pm
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 Is something out of date?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.