Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC) has assumed the role of operator for Gateway West, Albuquerque's largest shelter. This transition marks a change from Heading Home, which had managed the facility since 2018 and is now preparing to launch the Gateway Medical Respite Center.
CPLC will soon extend its services at Gateway West by offering case management for residents up to 59 years old. Currently, Sierra Health Care provides these services to senior citizens under a contract with the Department of Youth and Family Services. According to data from the City/County Area Agency on Aging, Sierra is working with 151 individuals at Gateway West, with 63 people currently on their way to securing housing.
Since taking over operations, CPLC has been serving an average of 600 individuals nightly, with numbers exceeding 630 during colder winter nights.
The City of Albuquerque is in the process of renovating all dormitories at Gateway West. These renovations include new beds, secure storage options under beds, and laundry facilities. To date, nine out of twelve dorms have been completed.
Mayor Tim Keller commented on the transformation: “Eight years ago, Gateway West was only a winter shelter that served a couple hundred people. Now we are transforming Gateway West into a hub where people get more than just shelter.” He emphasized that residents would be connected to case managers and vital resources as part of their journey toward housing stability.
Gilbert Ramirez, Director of Health, Housing and Homelessness added: “We are creating a safer, more welcoming Gateway West that meets the needs of our community... CPLC is key to creating this culture.”
Joseph Griego, President of CPLC New Mexico stated: “For more than 14 years...we have been able to adapt our services to meet the needs of our neighbors where they need it most.” He highlighted CPLC's commitment to supporting individuals in building empowered lives with stable shelter.
Founded in 1969 by community members combating racial discrimination, CPLC has grown significantly over time. The organization offers health and human services across six southwestern states and has assisted over 200,000 individuals in New Mexico alone.
CPLC brings extensive experience managing similar shelters in other states such as Arizona and Texas. They have operated facilities like Domestic Violence Shelter and Homeless Family Shelter in Phoenix and provided emergency services for unaccompanied minors in Hidalgo County.
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