Grants for Seniors in Albuquerque

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Albuquerque, New Mexico(2026 Guide)

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help

If you are at risk of losing housing this month, contact the City’s rental assistance resources right away: City of Albuquerque Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention.

Key Takeaways

  • There are multiple layers of help in Albuquerque: city programs, state programs, and trusted nonprofits. Start with 211 and the City’s Family & Community Services pages to get connected quickly.
  • Many pandemic-era programs have closed or changed. Always check the current status on official pages linked in this guide.
  • For rent help, check the City’s eviction prevention resources. For utilities, look at LIHEAP (state), City assistance, PNM (electric), and the Water Authority.
  • For food, use TEFAP monthly food boxes, senior meal sites/home-delivered meals through the Area Agency on Aging, Meals on Wheels, and Roadrunner Food Bank partners.
  • For health and dental, the City’s Health & Social Services Centers, Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless, Medicare counseling (SHIP), and Dental Lifeline Network are strong options.
  • Keep documents handy: photo ID, Social Security or I-94, proof of income, lease/utility bill, and bank statements.

Quick Help at a Glance

Need Primary Programs Where to Start
Rent & housing City of Albuquerque Eviction/Rental Assistance; State and federal housing programs; Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless (if homeless/at risk) City Rental Assistance • ABQ Healthcare for the Homeless
Utilities LIHEAP (state); City Utility Assistance; PNM customer assistance; Water Authority low‑income options LIHEAP – NM HSD • City Utility Assistance
Food TEFAP food boxes; Area Agency on Aging senior meals; Meals on Wheels; Roadrunner Food Bank partners TEFAP Food Box Info (PDF) • AAA – Senior Services
Health & mental health City Health & Social Services Centers; SHIP for Medicare; ABQ Healthcare for the Homeless; community clinics City Health & Social Services • ABQHCH
Cash or crisis help TANF (for those able to work); nonprofit emergency aid; ADRC navigation TANF – NM HSD • NM Aging & Disability Resource Center

Reality check: Programs change and funds can run out. Apply early in the month, respond quickly to requests for documents, and ask about waitlists or alternative funds.

Housing and Rent Assistance in Albuquerque

City of Albuquerque Eviction Prevention and Rental Help

  • What it is: City-backed assistance to prevent eviction for low- and very low-income households. Scope and length of help vary by case.
  • Good for: Seniors behind on rent or facing eviction.
  • How to apply: See current options and eligibility at City of Albuquerque – Rental Assistance.

Tip: If the first door is closed, ask the City page for other partners or funds. Housing agencies often refer to multiple programs.

State Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) – Current Status Varies

  • What it is: New Mexico previously offered rent/utility help during COVID through the Department of Finance & Administration. Many ERA programs nationwide have closed or paused.
  • What to do: Check status and alternative housing resources at New Mexico DFA – Office of the Secretary. If ERA is closed, ask about other state or local programs.

Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless (ABQHCH)

  • What it is: Health care and housing navigation for those who are homeless or close to it, plus support connecting to shelter and case management.
  • Good for: Seniors in unstable housing or without housing.
  • Contact: Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless.

Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing

  • What it is: Federal HUD programs administered locally to reduce rent for eligible low-income households.
  • Reality check: Waitlists can be long and may open/close. Look for regional openings (Albuquerque and neighboring counties) and sign up for alerts.
  • Where to learn more: Start with HUD’s local resources and contacts via HUD – New Mexico resources.

Legal Help for Eviction and Tenant Rights

  • What it is: Free or low-cost civil legal help for low-income seniors facing eviction, housing conditions problems, or benefits denials.
  • Where to start: New Mexico Legal Aid can advise and may represent eligible clients.

Utility and Home Energy Support

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – New Mexico

  • What it is: Helps pay heating/cooling costs and may assist with crisis situations.
  • Where to apply: New Mexico HSD – LIHEAP.
  • Tip: Apply early in the season. Ask about crisis benefits if your service is shut off or you have a shutoff notice.

City of Albuquerque Utility Assistance

Electric, Gas, and Water Providers

Tip: Bring your latest bill, ID, and proof of income to appointments. Ask about budget billing to even out seasonal spikes.

Food and Nutrition

TEFAP Food Boxes (City of Albuquerque)

Albuquerque Area Agency on Aging (AAA)

  • What it is: Congregate meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals for homebound seniors; also offers caregiver support, case management, and more.
  • Start here: AAA – Senior Services in New Mexico.

Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque

  • What it is: Home-delivered meals, including special diets (doctor-prescribed).
  • Learn more: Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque or search “Meals on Wheels Albuquerque” for the latest intake details.

Roadrunner Food Bank

Reality check: Pantry lines can be long near the end of the month. Go early, bring a cart if possible, and ask about senior boxes and home delivery options.

Health, Mental Health, and Dental Care

City Health & Social Services Centers

  • What they offer: Low-cost/no-cost services including pharmacy, transportation support, behavioral health, audiology, lab work, nutrition, radiology, and more. Uninsured and low-income residents are prioritized.
  • How to connect: City of Albuquerque – Health & Social Services.

Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless (ABQHCH)

  • What they offer: Primary care, behavioral health, dental referrals, and help with housing for individuals experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk.
  • Learn more: ABQHCH.

Medicare Counseling (SHIP)

Dental Lifeline Network – Donated Dental Services (DDS)

  • What it is: Volunteer dentists provide extensive treatment to eligible seniors with disabilities or medical fragility (waitlists common).
  • Learn more: Dental Lifeline Network – New Mexico.

Mental Health and Crisis Lines

Tip: Bring your Medicare card and a medication list to appointments. Ask clinics about sliding-scale fees and transportation options.

Home Repairs, Weatherization, and Accessibility

New Mexico Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants/Loans)

  • What it is: For very low-income homeowners in eligible areas, seniors 62+ may qualify for grants to remove health/safety hazards (loans also available).
  • Learn more: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants.
  • Reality check: Rural eligibility rules apply; parts of Bernalillo County outside the urban core may qualify.

Nonprofit Home Repair Programs

  • Rebuilding Together affiliates often help seniors with critical repairs and accessibility modifications. Look for Albuquerque/Central NM affiliates via Rebuilding Together – Find an Affiliate.
  • Ask 211 for current local programs if you can’t find an open affiliate.

Tip: For safety upgrades (grab bars, ramps), ask your doctor for a letter of medical need. It can help with approvals or funding.

Transportation

  • City bus and paratransit: Check ABQ RIDE for routes, accessibility, and paratransit (Sun Van) eligibility and scheduling: ABQ RIDE – Official Site.
  • Regional connections: Rio Metro provides commuter and regional services: Rio Metro Regional Transit District.
  • Non-emergency medical transport (Medicaid): If you have Centennial Care (Medicaid), ask your plan about rides to medical appointments.

Tip: For paratransit, apply early and have your healthcare provider complete the medical section.

Financial Assistance and Cash Aid

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – New Mexico

Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC)

  • What it is: Nonprofit offering training and technical and financial resources; may connect eligible seniors to emergency aid and utilities/food support through partners.
  • Learn more: RCAC Programs & Services.

Benefits Checkup and ADRC Navigation

Reality check: Cash assistance is limited and often tied to work or specific conditions. If TANF isn’t a fit, ask ADRC about other options like SNAP, Medicare Savings Programs, and property tax relief.

Property Tax Relief and Discounts

Tip: Bring proof of age, income, and your property’s legal description. Ask the assessor about any senior or disability exemptions.

Phone and Internet Discounts

  • Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Federal program that reduces the cost of phone or internet for eligible households.
  • Where to apply: Lifeline – USAC.
  • Reality check: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has faced funding changes. If ACP is unavailable, Lifeline may still help; ask your provider about their low-cost plans for seniors.

Three Steps to Get the Most Help Fast

  1. Call 211 and the ADRC. Get a caseworker or navigator to help you apply for multiple programs at once.
  2. Pull your documents together: ID, Social Security card, proof of address, lease/utility bill, proof of income (award letters, paystubs), and bank statements.
  3. Apply to at least one program in each category you need: rent, utilities, food, and healthcare. Ask every program if they can refer you to others.

Housing Programs – Details and Contacts

Program What it does Who it helps Where to apply
City Eviction/Rental Help Prevents eviction with short-term rent help Low/very low-income tenants behind on rent City Rental Assistance
ERA (if open) Past federal/state rent/utility aid; status varies Tenants impacted by hardship NM DFA – Updates
ABQ Healthcare for the Homeless Health care + housing navigation People homeless or near-homeless ABQHCH
HUD Programs (Vouchers/Public Housing) Lowers rent in private/public housing Low-income seniors HUD – NM resources
Legal Aid Eviction defense and tenant rights Low-income seniors New Mexico Legal Aid

Reality check: Keep communicating with your landlord while you seek help. Get everything in writing.

Utilities and Internet – At a Glance

Service Program What it covers How to apply
Energy LIHEAP (state) Heating/cooling costs, crisis help NM HSD – LIHEAP
City City Utility Assistance Discounts or monthly help City Utility Help
Electric PNM Assistance Payment plans, bill help programs PNM – Help & Programs
Gas New Mexico Gas Co. Payment assistance, plans NMGC – Assistance
Water Water Authority Low-income credits/help ABCWUA – Customer Assistance
Phone/Internet Lifeline Discount on service USAC Lifeline

Tip: Ask utility reps to screen you for every program you qualify for.

Food and Senior Nutrition – Summary

Program What you get How to connect
TEFAP Food Boxes Monthly food boxes for eligible households TEFAP Info (PDF)
AAA Senior Meals Congregate & home-delivered meals; case management Area Agency on Aging – Senior Services
Meals on Wheels ABQ Home-delivered meals, custom diets Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque
Roadrunner Food Bank Pantries and mobile food support Find Help – Roadrunner

Reality check: If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other diet needs, tell the intake worker so they can match options.

Health, Dental, and Mental Health – Quick View

Service Program What it offers How to connect
City Clinics Health & Social Services Centers Pharmacy, labs, behavioral health, more City Health & Social Services
Homeless Health ABQHCH Medical, behavioral health, housing supports ABQHCH
Medicare Help SHIP Plan choices, MSP screening SHIP – NM
Dental Dental Lifeline Network (DDS) Donated dental care for eligible seniors DLN – NM

Tip: For Medicare Part D reviews, bring your medication list and preferred pharmacy.

Who Qualifies and What to Expect

  • Income limits: Many programs use federal poverty guidelines or area median income. Ask staff to screen you; limits vary by program.
  • ID and residency: Most programs need photo ID and proof you live in Albuquerque or Bernalillo County.
  • Immigration status: Some programs aid households regardless of status; others have restrictions. Ask about “household-based” eligibility if someone in your household is eligible (for example, a U.S. citizen child).
  • Processing time: Can range from same day (food boxes) to weeks (rental and utility help). Keep your phone on and check email for document requests.

Documentation checklist:

  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Social Security card or I-94 (if applicable)
  • Proof of address (lease, current bill)
  • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, paystubs)
  • Bank statements (last 1–3 months)
  • Eviction notice or utility shutoff notice (if applicable)
  • Medical necessity note (for accessibility upgrades), if needed

Inclusive Resources

Veteran Seniors

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Disabled Seniors

  • ADRC can connect you to in-home supports, Medicaid waivers, equipment, and benefits: Aging & Disability Resource Center – NM.
  • Independent Living Centers in New Mexico offer skills training and home modification referrals. Find providers through ADRC.

Tribal Members and Native Elders

  • Indian Health Service – Albuquerque Area provides clinics and elder health supports: IHS Albuquerque Area.
  • Ask your Pueblo/Nation social services office about elder programs, food distributions, and home repair resources specific to your community.

Rural Seniors (near Albuquerque)

  • If you live outside the urban core, you may be eligible for USDA home repair grants and weatherization. Start with: USDA Section 504 and MFA Weatherization.
  • For transportation gaps, ask ADRC about volunteer driver programs and Medicaid rides (if eligible).

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is rental assistance still available in Albuquerque?

It changes over time. Start with the City’s rental assistance page to see what’s currently open: City of Albuquerque – Rental Assistance. If a program is closed, ask staff for other local options or waitlists.

How do I lower my utility bills right now?

Apply for LIHEAP through the state: NM HSD – LIHEAP. Call your utility (PNM, New Mexico Gas Co., Water Authority) and ask for payment plans and low-income credits. The City also has assistance: City Utility Assistance.

Where can I get meals delivered to my home?

Check the Area Agency on Aging for home-delivered meals and case management: AAA – Senior Services. Also contact Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque.

I’m on Medicare and overpaying for prescriptions. Who can help?

Get free counseling from SHIP: New Mexico SHIP. Bring your medication list and pharmacy info.

I need a ramp and bathroom grab bars. Any help for that?

Ask your doctor for a letter of medical necessity, then contact Weatherization, USDA Section 504, and local nonprofits (211 can refer you). Start with MFA Weatherization and USDA Section 504.

I’m a veteran. Where should I start?

Begin with the Albuquerque VA for health care and benefits referrals: Albuquerque VA Health Care. The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services can help with claims: NMDVS.

I don’t use the internet much. How can I still apply?

Call 211 and the ADRC to apply by phone or set up in-person help:

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the agency or organization before applying. This guide links to official or well-established sources to help you verify current information.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: January 2026
  • Sources Verified: January 2026
  • Next Review: April 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in daily life.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.