Gateway West, the largest shelter in New Mexico, is undergoing significant changes to provide more than just emergency housing. The facility has renovated 10 out of its 12 dormitories and introduced new services such as case management, quarterly resource fairs, and increased healthcare access.
Joshua Talley, who previously stayed at Gateway West after losing his job and housing in November 2023, described how the shelter helped him during a difficult period. Through Albuquerque Community Safety, he was connected to Gateway West where he could stay with his two dogs. He later moved into a sober living facility and now returns to Gateway West to share his experience and help others connect with available resources.
“All I needed was a chance to get some rest and cleaned up. You get three meals a day. It’s safe. It’s warm in the wintertime, it’s cool in the summertime,” said Joshua. “Now, some of the people that I’ve spoken to, they just love the renovations that are being done in the dorms.”
Mayor Tim Keller commented on the evolution of Gateway West: “7 years ago, we began offering around-the-clock shelter out of an urgent community need for a safe space to sleep at night,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Now we’re transforming Gateway West into a space that goes beyond shelter. It’s meeting people where they are by providing services that create pathways to healing and housing.“
Health, Housing and Homelessness Director Gilbert Ramirez also noted: “Joshua’s story highlights the importance of providing entry points where people can safely rest and access resources,” said Health, Housing and Homelessness Director Gilbert Ramirez. “Gateway West has become a vital component of the Gateway System of Care. It’s meeting the immediate needs of our unhoused neighbors and connecting them to their next step.“
The ongoing changes at Gateway West reflect broader efforts by local authorities to address homelessness through both immediate support and long-term solutions.
