ABQ Times

Volunteers and staff members served Christmas meals to individuals experiencing homelessness at Gateway West, the city's largest shelter. Mayor Tim Keller participated with 26 volunteers who provided 620 meals, along with desserts such as pies, cakes, and cookies.

"Everyone deserves the basics of warmth, safety and sustenance this season and year-round, and our community continues to come together to help those in need," said Mayor Keller. "We’re working to break cycles of homelessness by connecting folks to resources including case management offered at Gateway West to help folks on their path to stability."

Gateway West accommodates up to 660 people per night. The City is renovating all 12 dorms at the facility, with updates including fresh paint, new floors, LED lights, bathroom upgrades, and new beds with lockable storage. Renovations are being conducted sequentially to maintain capacity. The community is invited to volunteer for bed building on January 9, 2025.

Community members can assist by donating clothing, blankets, and toiletries until January 9. Donations should be delivered to any of the four Health & Social Service Centers and designated for Gateway West.

ACS offers after-hours transportation service between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m., which includes transport to the new First Responder Receiving area at the Gateway Center during overnight hours.