Help from Storehouse West emergency programs.
Income based assistance programs are administered by Storehouse West. The client service team at the agency partner with local organizations (such as the Salvation Army) as well as the applicants themselves in an effort to meet basic needs of food, clothing, utility bills, housing, and more. Most of the support is for foor and clothing only, but they can generally offer referrals for other aid. Not only will assistance be provided to people from Sandoval County who qualify, but follow-up services are also arranged.
Food bank services and emergency aid
Anyone in need, whether from a short term crisis such as a job loss or from long term challenges, can stop by the main office at Storehouse West. The staff will explore any type of financial aid or other support that can be provided.
One key service, the food bank, is for very short term needs. Participants may receive some form of assistance a few times per year. Or, if the person has prior approval, then there may be more frequent use in special circumstances. Thousands of residents from all backgrounds are fed or receive food from the non-profit each year.
The pantry operates like a grocery store. This in effect means that the center will allow people to pick what they need. So they can use a cart to select canned items or fresh fruits, if they are available. Or a single mom may need free formula. So the goods vary based on the family's situation.
Storehouse West will try to collect items to satisfy special dietary needs as well. This can in particular help the elderly or children in Sandoval County. There may be food for diabetics, gluten free, baby formula, and more. Other goods at the pantry may be toiletries, diapers, soaps, paper goods, and more in stock.
Basic needs are met by Storehouse West. When possible, the agency provides direct help for families to meet needs for clothing, utilities, food, rent and other housing costs. As an example, if someone needs some money to move into a new home, then assistance may be available for paying a security deposit.
A Clothing closet will also provide items for children. This can be school supplies or items such as shoes, coats, or backpacks. This service is for income qualified families that are clients of Storehouse West.
Additional services for the low income
Much of below is provided by partner agencies, such as the Salvation Army or other agencies. But Storehouse West is a source of information.
When stable, Transitional Housing, is available. There are centers for the most vulnerable in the region. All programs are income based located within the city of Bernalillo. Transitional Housing assists low-income families, the formerly homeless and individuals in their pursuit of self-sufficiency.
Anyone that is enrolled will be able to participate in an intensive case management process. If this is successful, then the client will be assisted in their quest for safe and affordable permanent housing. Each tenant will need to pay a portion of their income for rent and deposits. But because of this, they will receive personalized case management based on self-identified goals.
There are some qualifications. Residents of Transitional Housing are required to have income prior to entry and they need to pay about 30% of their total household annual income for rent and all of their own utilities. So this is limited to who it will help.
The uninsured and very low income can get their medical needs met. Local Community Health Centers in Sandoval County are an alternative to using a hospital. The clinics will try to meet the needs of a growing number of medically under-served people in Sandoval County. While the specifics of each service will vary, the center provides both health care and pharmacy services to clients who meet eligibility requirements.
Many other services are arranged for addressing an emergency. This ranges from Rental/Mortgage Assistance, Eye Glasses / Eye Exams, Christmas Tree Program, and Energy bill assistance. There can also be employment needs met, such as for clothing or a voucher for gasoline.
When applying for financial aid from the organization, applicants need to bring current proof of income. That may be pay stub, unemployment, or Social Security checks. Also, applicants should bring to Storehouse West or a partner agency copy of latest income tax forms, current bank statement, letter from Social Security or DHS stating status, and other proof.
Storehouse West senior programs in Sandoval County
Senior Outreach and Assistance provides referrals to link the elderly with specific needs to available resources. Follow up is arranged too. The goal is to keep senior citizens independent and residing in their own homes. So to this end everything from home care to meals and transportation may be arranged. The team will provide assistance to those seniors that face language and cultural barriers.
Nutritional needs can be met by Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). This federal funded program, in which Storehouse West can offer referrals, works to improve the health of elderly people at least 60 years of age. It does this by supplementing their diets with nutritious USDA commodity foods. Everything given is free, and clients may receive canned meat, vegetables, fruits, cheese, grains, milk, cereals and juices.
The main office of Storehouse is at 1030-F Veranda Dr. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Note they only serve the county, and much of what is offered is in the form of linkage to other agencies.
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