PNM offers help during Good Neighbor event
Financial aid, range of other services will be available
With winter chill setting in, the PNM Good Neighbor Fund and the City of Albuquerque are offering a helping hand to struggling residents at a public assistance event Oct. 27.
Participants can get on-the-spot financial aid to help pay their electric bills plus access a range of services available for low-income or struggling families and individuals.
“Many of us have been in a tough spot where even a little bit of help makes a world of difference,” said PNM spokesperson Shannon Jackson. “Whether you’re a single parent, a struggling student, or a family on a fixed income, this is the event to find out what assistance is available and get help accessing it.”
The fund itself provides immediate financial aid for people behind on their electric bill because of emergencies or other extenuating circumstances. That could include any unexpected financial hardship. “Even if you’re not behind but are struggling to make a payment next month, it will pay toward that,” Jackson said.
The fund is financed by volunteer contributions from PNM customers and employees. PNM shareholders match all donations dollar-for-dollar. Last year, the fund paid out $32,000 to help 428 customers pay their electric bills, Jackson said.
The city’s Family and Community Services Department is co-hosting the fair, with more than 40 public and private agencies participating. Organizations will offer help in English and Spanish on housing, foreclosures, food, medical care, legal aid property taxes, and financial literacy. Services for seniors, families with children, and people seeking employment will also be available, including free baby diapers and free flu shots.
The event runs from 9-11 a.m. at Valley High School at 1505 Candelaria Road NW.