Our Programs
As the issue of hunger, basic needs and housing in New Mexico continued to grow, the food pantry expanded its operations in 1996 to include food boxes for those who needed help but were not homeless. Our programs aim to support our vulnerable populations including the homeless, elderly, children, the handicapped, and disabled. We further our mission to help those in need in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas. We are always accepting donations from our ONGOING BASIC NEEDS list.
THE HOMELESS
The homeless population continues to grow and Bienvenidos Outreach does what it can to help them. Mondays through Thursdays, they can come to 1511 Fifth Street for a bag lunch and clothing. At the end of our fiscal year of 2023 we gave out 15,257 lunches. Many of them are transient, just passing through, but the word spreads quickly as to where they can find a meal, clothing, a sleeping bag, and personal care items.
THE FOOD PANTRY
With our economy continuing to struggle, we feel certain that we will see the number of new clients continue to grow. Clients may come in every two weeks to receive a box containing fresh vegetables and fruits, canned goods, meats, bread, pastry, and other essential staples to supplement their existing food supplies at home. Clients may also visit Cathy’s Closet, our clothing and household donation room.
LIMITED INCOME FAMILIES
This is the fastest-growing segment of our clientele: families with at least one member in the workforce, but not making enough money to cover their basic needs. Sometimes these families have to choose between paying utility bills or putting food on the table.
THE ELDERLY
The number of elderly citizens utilizing our services continues to increase. These are our neighbors, living on fixed incomes with funds that do not always last through the month. We are able to help them with food boxes, clothing, and household items to help make life a little easier.
THE SMART BREAKFASTS=SMART CHILDREN PROGRAM
We have continued to secure grants and donations for our “Smart Kids” program which allows us to buy “kid-friendly” healthy snacks. Each household on the food box program may get one “snack bag” with each box every two weeks. Bienvenidos Outreach also partners with Global Give-A-Book Program in encouraging people to read.
The Holiday Gift Program
The Holiday gift program is available to children 15 and under. In 2024, we were able to help 569 children in collaboration with many sponsors, including Immaculate Mary Church, St. Anne’s Church, Rio Grande School, First National Bank 1870, Century Bank, The Rotary Club, Sufi Center, and many more. Together, we were able to give out over 1,138 gifts to children who might not have received a gift at all. For more information on this program, you can reach us at 505-986-0583
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Many of our clients have disabilities which prohibit their ability to earn a living. They are always welcome to come for food and many of them will volunteer to help where they may assist in the preparation of lunches and food boxes.
ELDORADO FARMERS’ MARKET
Bienvenidos Outreach, Inc proudly organizes the Eldorado Farmers’ Market. Proceeds from the market help support our Smart Breakfasts=Smart Kids program and our healthy eating programs for seniors and those with medical conditions.
GARDENS-FOR-ALL
Bienvenidos Outreach is a non-profit organization who has the honor to receive a grant from the United Way of North Central New Mexico. This grant has allowed us to provide hydroponic gardens to anyone who would like one regardless of income. With this growing system you can grow vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, jalapenos and herbs to enjoy a salad, pizza and much more in your own home. For more information you can contact Alice Montoya at 505-479-0611 or board@bienvenidosfoodpantry.
PET FOOD PROGRAM
Bienvenidos Outreach, Inc supports animal wellfare. Become a Sponsor for our Pet Food Program. We provide shelf-stable pet food.
ELDORADO DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Bienvendios Outreach, Inc in partnership with the Santa Fe County Extension Office offers bi-monthly distribution of food boxes, pet food, and Kids program for Smart Kids Breakfast. Distribution is located the Eldorado Senior Center every other Thursday. Location: 1 La Hacienda Loop, Santa Fe, NM 87508.