Single mothers seeking assistance with expenses
A single mother of four, including a disabled 12-yearold son, says her only monthly income at the moment is from Supplement Security Income benefits, which cover her mortgage and some other bills. She says she needs nearly $1,500 to replace a broken heater and help paying her propane bill.
An unemployed single mother of three is looking for assistance with rent, electric bills, propane expenses, a truck payment and insurance, as well as Christmas gifts.
They are among hundreds of people seeking help from neighbors this season through the Empty Stocking Fund.
The Empty Stocking Fund is a project of The Santa Fe New Mexican. The Santa Fe Community Foundation, Los Alamos National Bank, The Salvation Army, Presbyterian Medical Services, The Life Link and Linda Zingle donate services to jointly administer the Empty Stocking Fund.
The newspaper will run stories featuring requests for assistance from local residents. The information from the initial application will be verified if the applicant is selected for assistance.
To donate: Make your taxdeductible donation at www.santafenewmexican.com/empty_stocking or mail a check to The New Mexican’s Empty Stocking Fund c/o The Santa Fe Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1827, Santa Fe, NM 875041827. Donors can request to remain anonymous.
If you can provide a service such as roofing or home repairs, call 505-983-8968.
If you can contribute food, clothing, toys, housewares, furniture, firewood, or other items or services, call 505-988-8054.
If you donate online in honor of a friend or loved one, a custom e-card can be sent from the Empty Stocking Fund to let them know about your contribution, courtesy of the Santa Fe Community Foundation and InSight Foto.
To apply for assistance: Applications for help must be received by 5 p.m. Dec. 8 to be considered by the Empty Stocking Fund Committee.
Applications can be submitted at www.santafenewmexican.com/empty_stocking. People who do not otherwise have access to the internet can go to any of the city’s three public libraries or to the New Mexico Workforce Solutions office at 301 W. De Vargas St.
Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria will be considered without regard to race, creed, place or country of origin, age, disability, ethnicity, color, gender identity, marital status or sexual orientation.
Recipients must live in Santa Fe County or Rio Arriba County and provide a Social Security number.