A 28-year-old mother of 3 children who resides in Española, New Mexico (Rio Arriba County) found herself in an abusive relationship. In July of this past year - an especially difficult year due to the ongoing pandemic - she gained the courage and made a plan to escape the situation with her children. While in housing limbo, this mother applied for Section 8 housing in Rio Arriba, however, the waiting list is up to two years. Maria, (not her actual name), found a home where her abuser could not find her while waiting for housing assistance. Maria’s rent is $700.00.
In October Maria's work hours were greatly reduced due to COVID-19. This brought on more stress for this determined mother as she did not know whether to pay part of her November rent or use the money for food for her and the children. Thankfully, funds from Con Alma Health Foundation were available to help the client pay for her full November rent. Through tears of joy, a grateful Maria stated to her Santuario del Corazón Family Navigator “My children and I will have food for Thanksgiving, and among many things, I am thankful for the kindness in people for helping my family.”
This is just one instance of a family being assisted by one of Las Cumbres' Family Navigation programs. This critical work would not be possible without generous donors and funders such as Con Alma Health Foundation. It takes a village to support our neighbors, friends, and community members.