City to Stand up Community Hub, Continues to Help Evacuees
May 13, 2022
The City of Albuquerque is continuing its efforts to support neighboring communities impacted by the wildfires in northern New Mexico. One week after activating the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in a supportive capacity, City staff across departments have stepped up to increase resources available to the approximately 1,500 evacuees in Albuquerque.
The City is currently providing emergency shelter to over 300 evacuees at five area hotels and the RV lot at Balloon Fiesta Park. The hotels are being staffed by responders from the Albuquerque Community Safety department and the department of Family and Community Services. There are no hotel rooms available today. Those in need of lodging can access rooms as they become available by calling 505-244-8604 beginning tomorrow, Saturday, May 14.
“One of the most important things you can do in life is to let people know they are not alone. I am humbled to walk alongside them offering support and empathy,” said Elaine, ACS Community Oriented Response and Assistance Responder.
Meals are being provided to individuals staying in some of the hotels, but for those staying in lodging that is not providing meals or with family members, the EOC will be standing up a community hub beginning Monday, May 16. Evacuees can receive food boxes and other much needed supplies from the hub. More information will be available on this resource at cabq.gov/wildfires or 311.
“Our goal was to get these resources in place quickly and expand according to need. So many hands across New Mexico are making this collective lift to help our neighbors and support the first responder fighting the fires. I’m grateful to our team at the City for jumping into action and getting relief to those in need,” said Mayor Keller. “We will continue to do all we can to provide aid and stay ready to help throughout the fire season.”
Evacuees interested in receiving text alerts with information on resources and more can text ABQEVAC to 78015. Albuquerque residents interested in helping can find a list of donation needs at cabq.gov/wildfires. Evacuees from impacted areas can get updated information by visiting cabq.gov/wildfires or calling 311 or 505-768-2000 for those calling from outside of the city.
The City continues to provide free access to the zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, and Balloon Museum for evacuees.