ABQ Times

The City of Albuquerque, in collaboration with Goodwill Industries of New Mexico, organized a resource fair at Gateway West, one of the city’s largest shelters. The shelter accommodates up to 700 individuals each night. Over 25 service providers were present, facilitating more than 1,200 interactions with the shelter's residents.

Homeless Innovations Officer, Maria Wolfe, emphasized the significance of these events, stating, “A wide range of services are offered at each resource fair, tailored to meet the unique needs of residents.” Wolfe expressed gratitude towards community partners for supporting the unsheltered population.

Services available at the fair covered a broad spectrum, including mental health support, substance use disorder treatment, veteran resources, assistance with food and SNAP benefits, Medicaid and Medicare enrollment, domestic violence support, employment training, job opportunities, and housing resources.

Mayor Tim Keller acknowledged the importance of providing these critical services, saying, “Pathways out of homelessness often start with access to essential resources and support, including those offered today. We are meeting people where they are and offering the chance to take the next step toward reshaping their lives.”

Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC) joined the fair for the first time as Gateway West's new operator, offering their expertise in social, mental health, housing, and education services. Goodwill, having co-hosted previous fairs, underscored their commitment through Melissa Stock, Chief Administrative Officer, who stated, “Goodwill Industries of New Mexico is proud to sponsor this important event. Now more than ever, we believe that a hand up is necessary for many of our friends, neighbors, and communities.”

Participating organizations included Chicanos Por La Causa, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, NM Department of Workforce Solutions, Heading Home-Job Connect, United Healthcare, UNM Office of Community Health: Case Management, and many others. Their joint efforts aim to provide a better future and hope for Albuquerque's unsheltered community.