We’re stepping up during COVID-19.

Social distancing measures
Self Help is doing our part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by creating an alternating staff schedule, implementing additional office cleaning procedures, and utilizing remote staff and volunteer shifts. We have transitioned to remote intake in most cases, but are still available by appointment for clients who need to visit in person.
The impact of COVID-19 on our community
The COVID-19 pandemic is difficult for all of us, but its effects are most felt by those already living on the edge–low-income families, undocumented workers, single parents, the elderly, and people with health risks. They are facing loss of income due to layoffs, quarantine, or illness, and are struggling to access aid.
Self Help provides a vital safety net to help those most impacted not fall through the cracks. We’re providing confidential emergency financial aid, advocacy, and important referrals to help people navigate a changing landscape. We work to prevent the most unconscionable outcomes–such as hunger, homelessness, and lack of access to medical care. And the need is growing.
As the pandemic progresses and reopening begins, those we serve are often not better off–in many cases policies designed to protect them are being relaxed as well, leaving people more at risk of eviction, utility disconnections, and illness at work. Our work is far from over.
We are increasing our fundraising efforts to provide as much aid as possible to those affected by the pandemic, and are actively recruiting volunteers to help manage call volumes. The support of our community is vital at this time!
HOW TO HELP
Support our emergency financial aid program by donating online via Paypal, debit, or credit card (no PayPal account required) or mail a check to Self Help, Inc at 2390 North Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544. Donations will be gratefully acknowledged via mail or emailed letter; we are a 501(c)3 organization, meaning your donation is 100% tax deductible. Your gift will be an immense blessing to families in need.
Interested in volunteering? We’re looking for remote client intake volunteers! Email Maura at director@selfhelpla.org to get involved. You’ll need to do some training, pick a regular weekly shift, and sign a confidentiality agreement. No prior social work experience is needed, but you’ll need to be a good listener and problem-solver, and have a phone and computer that you know how to use.
HOW TO REQUEST HELP
Leave a message for Self Help on our confidential voicemail at (505) 662-4666, or contact us via our web form. In either case, please let us know:
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- Your name
- What you need help with
- The best phone number to reach you
(If you do not have a working phone or are otherwise unable to complete a phone interview, let us know in your message and we will set up an in-person appointment with you)
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A staff member or volunteer will return your call within two business days (usually less). If your need has urgent time constraints (e.g. you’re running out of a vital medication or are about to be evicted), please mention this in your message so we can prioritize your case.
Depending on your need and location, we may need a copy of your bill (lease, utility bill, phone bill, medical bill, etc). It’s good to have this document on hand in case you need it. For utility assistance, please have your exact balance and account number available.
NOTE: as all our volunteers are working remotely, you may receive a callback from a private or unknown number. If your phone blocks unknown calls, you may need to turn this feature off for fastest response time to your case.
RESOURCES
New Mexico COVID-19 Information Hotline
1-833-551-0518
For information on school closures, job issues, financial or food aid. More information for those facing financial hardship is also available on the state website.
New Mexico COVID-19 Health Hotline
1-855-600-3453
For health-related questions about the coronavirus or how to get tested. General information is also available online.
New Mexico Legal Aid
1-833-545-4357 or apply online (preferred).
For legal help dealing with evictions, employer issues, benefits, domestic violence issues, and more.
New Mexico Crisis Access Line
1-855-NMCRISIS
For support and resource information 24/7.