Need Has No Season
Poverty and hunger do not distinguish between seasons, nor do they care about the weather. When you are poor and hungry you need food and basic essentials regardless of either. Often we wish to be of help in our hearts, we have that intention, but we never actually act on it. Place yourself in the shoes of a poverty-stricken individual who is half starving, out in the cold in the middle of winter. Any little bit of assistance means a great deal to these people. No amount of help is too small. This is where the old saying that "it's the thought that counts" really shines brightly. But that thought must also become a reality, even if it is a small one. A little kindness goes a long way. Remember when your mother kissed your injuries and somehow they seemed to be not so bad? The principle is the same here as well. A small amount of kindness at a crucial time can make all the difference in the world.
New Mexico's poverty rate is listed as 4th lowest in our country. A large percentage of those receiving emergency food are women, and children under the age of 18. Every day a great number of the elderly and 35% of our children go hungry.
Following are some statistics regarding the number of people we have served since 2001:
| Year | People Served | |
| 2001 | 9,228 | |
| 2002 | 22,168 | |
| 2003 | 43,584 | |
| 2004 | 59,312 | |
| 2005 | 61,148* | |
| * In 2005 we closed two weeks early and also moved. |
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We serve people of all races and cultural or religious backgrounds. None are refused the help they need provided we have the resources to serve them. This includes Hispanics, Anglo-Saxons, African Americans, American Indians, Asians, Mexicans and others. We primarily serve people who have a median income (if any) significantly below the Federal Poverty Level definition, which for Santa Fe is less than $23,100 for a one-person household. Often these families have several children plus adults who are attempting to survive on a very meager income. Many of the homeless we serve have no income at all.
Exercise your heart and please help us to help these people. We are all human beings sharing life together on this planet.