NM Human Services Dept – Emergency Assistance

Housing & Financial · New Mexico · Free

Emergency financial help for rent, utilities, and basic needs administered by the NM Human Services Department. Dads facing eviction, utility shutoff, or food insecurity can ask about TANF, LIHEAP, SNAP, and other safety-net programs. Visit 2009 S Pacheco St in Santa Fe or call 800-283-4465 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. Apply online at hsd.state.nm.us with income verification.

Contact & Details

Address: 2009 S Pacheco St, Santa Fe, NM 87505

Phone: 800-283-4465

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

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About Housing & Financial for Fathers

Housing and financial assistance for fathers comes through a combination of federal programs (HUD, SNAP, TANF, LIHEAP) and state/local efforts. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing are administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) with long waitlists in most markets. Emergency shelter and rapid rehousing are funded through the federal Continuum of Care program — every region has a Coordinated Entry system that assesses and places homeless adults and families. Rental assistance, utility assistance (LIHEAP), and one-time emergency funds are available through community action agencies and 211 referral lines. Fathers with children in their custody may qualify for Section 8 family priority and TANF, though state rules vary. This directory covers PHAs, shelter systems, 211 call lines, and community action agencies that serve single dads.

Housing & Financial in New Mexico

New Mexico district courts handle divorce and custody in each of its 13 judicial districts. The Child Support Enforcement Division operates under HSD. Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe are the largest cities. New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid organization.

More Housing & Financial in New Mexico

  • NM Mortgage Finance Authority — State agency administering affordable housing programs, rental assistance, and homebuyer help across New Mexico. MFA offers down-payment ass
  • Albuquerque Housing Authority — Public housing and Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher programs for low-income residents of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. The authority ma
  • Salvation Army – New Mexico — Emergency rent, utility, and shelter assistance for New Mexico families, along with food pantries, case management, and holiday programs. Da
  • Habitat for Humanity – NM — Affordable homeownership program for qualifying New Mexico families, built on sweat equity, no-profit mortgages, and volunteer construction.
  • United Way 211 – New Mexico — Dial 211 for free, confidential referrals to housing, emergency rent help, food pantries, and other community assistance across New Mexico.
  • Las Cruces Housing Authority — Public housing and Section 8 vouchers for low-income residents of Las Cruces and Dona Ana County. The authority maintains waitlists and hand

Housing & Financial — Common Questions

How long is the waitlist for Section 8?
Varies wildly — from a few months in some markets to 5+ years in hot metros (LA, NYC, DC). Apply to multiple Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in your area. Some PHAs give preference to families with children, veterans, or homeless applicants.
What does 211 do?
211 is a free nationwide referral service operated by United Way and partners. Call or text 211 to reach a live specialist who connects you to local help with rent, utilities, food, childcare, employment, and more. Available 24/7 in most areas.
Can single dads get TANF?
Yes. TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is gender-neutral — any qualifying parent or caretaker with a dependent child in the home can apply. Benefit amounts and time limits vary by state. Work requirements apply after a brief grace period.
What's LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state's LIHEAP office. Both annual assistance and emergency crisis payments are available. Don't wait until disconnection — apply at the start of the heating season.