Homelessness is still a serious problem in Albuquerque. Many people and families suddenly lose their housing because of job loss, eviction, or personal problems. Hotel vouchers are a helpful short-term option because they give people a safe place to stay right away.
Who Helps Provide These Hotel Vouchers?
City and County Programs
The City of Albuquerque Department of Health, Housing, and the Homeless collaborates with local agencies to provide hotel vouchers to people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. They offer short-term emergency housing while also helping people access long-term support, such as housing vouchers or shelters.
Heading Home
Heading Home is a local nonprofit organization that provides community outreach services and voucher support. Its StreetConnect team collaborates with police, hospitals, and city outreach teams to directly connect people with hotel vouchers when needed.
Other Local Groups
Other nonprofit organizations and agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Salvation Army partners, and organizations involved in the homeless care system, also help connect people with hotel vouchers or other emergency housing assistance. Some focus on families, veterans, or people with health conditions.
Religious and Church-Affiliated Assistance
Churches and faith-based groups sometimes assist people in crisis by providing hotel vouchers, referring people to support groups, or partnering with shelters. These groups often offer additional support, such as meals, clothing, or case management. (Note: Details about specific churches should be confirmed directly with the organization, as availability and policies change.)
Organizations That May Provide Hotel or Motel Vouchers in Albuquerque
Heading Home
Heading Home works closely with community outreach teams and the city to assist people experiencing homelessness.
Through its StreetConnect outreach program, the organization helps people access housing resources, including hotel and housing vouchers.
Clients are typically referred by local agencies, hospitals, or city departments that serve people in need.
Phone: 505-344-4340 (Shelter Helpline)
Barrett Foundation
Barrett Foundation focuses on assisting families and women experiencing homelessness.
It offers shelter, rapid rehousing services, and housing assistance.
It may offer motel voucher assistance when funds are available and typically includes case management support.
First Nations Community HealthSource
First Nations Community HealthSource operates a community outreach program for people experiencing homelessness that connects individuals with housing resources.
Motel vouchers are available based on eligibility and funding availability.
People who receive vouchers typically work with a case manager during their stay.
Good Shepherd Center
This long-established shelter and service provider supports people experiencing homelessness with housing assistance programs.
It offers housing voucher programs, such as rapid rehousing and supported permanent housing, to help people find stable housing.
Hotel Vouchers for Specific Groups of People
Families with students: The Bernalillo County Hotel Voucher Program partners with the APS McKinney-Vento program to provide temporary hotel housing for homeless families with school-aged children.
Contact: Contact the McKinney-Vento office at 505-256-8239.
Veterans: Homeless veterans can access emergency housing through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Contact: Call the National Homeless Veterans Call Center at 1-877-424-3838.
Who is eligible for hotel vouchers?
Not everyone who applies automatically receives a voucher. Eligibility generally depends on factors such as:
- Being homeless or without a safe shelter.
- Having a documented emergency (such as medical problems, family safety concerns, etc.).
- Being referred by social workers, law enforcement, shelters, or other social service agencies.
- Sometimes, meeting certain income or residency requirements may apply.
Programs may prioritize families with children, individuals with health needs, or others who cannot safely sleep outdoors or in shelters.
How long can you stay?
Hotel stays with vouchers are usually short-term. The length of stay can vary depending on the program and funding:
From a few nights to a few weeks in most emergency cases.
Longer stays are permitted in very specific situations (such as prolonged medical recovery or family emergencies) when additional support is allowed.
How to apply for or get help with hotel vouchers
If you or someone you know needs a hotel voucher, follow these steps:
Call 2-1-1 United Way or the Homeless Helpline (505-768-HELP).
These hotlines can connect you with current resources, shelter listings, and voucher programs.
Visit or call your local social services agencies.
Groups like Heading Home and others work directly with people experiencing homelessness and can help you begin the process of obtaining a voucher.
Ask first responders or shelter staff.
Police outreach teams and community service workers often know who has vouchers available and how to contact them quickly.
Be prepared to share information.
Agencies may ask about your situation, identification, and immediate needs to determine your eligibility.
Remember: It’s best to start early, as availability can change daily.
Final Summary
Hotel vouchers in Albuquerque offer temporary, free stays in hotels or motels for people experiencing homelessness, especially during urgent crises or when shelters are full. These vouchers are short-term and temporary, helping people get a good night’s sleep while connecting them with long-term housing support and services.
