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 matters most
You can ask"What do you need to keep safe: papers, medicine, a phone, tools, or bigger things?"
You can ask"Have you lost things before? What happened?"
2Protect papers first
Take clear photos of their ID, Social Security card, birth certificate, DD-214 and benefits letters.
Help them email the photos to themselves, so they can get them from any computer.
Silver City Public Library
Copies, printing and free scanning
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm
At the Gospel MissionMail can come to the Mission for free: Their Name, c/o Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, NM 88061.
3Keep medicine and phone safe
Keep medicine in its labeled bottle, in a small bag on their body.
If medicine is lost or stolen, see the guide "Has a prescription but can't afford the medicine".
4Places to keep bigger things
You can ask"Is there a friend, family member or church you trust who could keep a box for you?"
If they have a car, see the guide "Living in a car or vehicle".
Women with children may ask about Sierra House.
At the Gospel MissionSierra House is a shelter for women and children. Ask Mission staff about space.
5Carry less, carry smart
Keep only what they need and can carry. A good backpack is easier to keep safe.
At the Gospel MissionThe clothing bank (2 visits every 30 days) can replace clothes, so they don't have to carry as many.
At the Gospel MissionAsk about a survival kit.
If they need a tent, sleeping bag or blankets, see the guide "Sleeping outside and needs gear (tent, sleeping bag, blankets)".
6If their things were stolen or thrown out
If someone stole their things, see the guide "Was robbed, beaten or hurt by a crime".
If they lost their ID, see the guide "Has no ID at all".
If they lost everything in a fire or flood, see the guide "Lost their home or belongings in a fire, flood or disaster".
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 Is something out of date?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.