Alamogordo NM
11-28-2024 4:43am

NMSP Takes on Violence Against the Unhoused Facts and Local Alamogordo Resources for the Unhoused

 From November 12th to November 25th, the New Mexico State Police, in collaboration with the Santa Fe Police Department and the Region III Task Force, conducted a proactive operation in Santa Fe to identify individuals who are victimizing the unhoused population through various criminal activities.

Officers contacted 479 individuals, and yielded the following results:

25 felony arrests
15 misdemeanor arrests
13 arrests involving drugs
19 arrests of habitual offenders.
242 fentanyl pills seized
Various amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, and psilocybin (mushrooms) were seized.

An NMSP civilian victims advocate was present with NMSP officers to provide resources to unhoused persons. 34 people opted to speak with an advocate, with only 3 refusing assistance.

In a statement from the New Mexico State Police they said that they are committed to understanding and tackling the root causes behind challenges faced by our unhoused population, which can lead to criminal activity. Through meaningful collaboration with state resources, NMSP aims to foster strong relationships that promote safety and enhance the quality of life for everyone in New Mexico.

For many Americans, finding affordable housing continues to be a challenge, whether one is renting or buying. In today’s real estate market, many overpriced homes sit vacant while populations experiencing homelessness continue to grow.

While both terms, “homeless” and “unhoused,” are used interchangeably, the preference often lies with “unhoused” as it emphasizes the temporary circumstance rather than defining an individual by their lack of shelter. It seeks to humanize the situation and underscore the systemic issues contributing to housing instability, fostering a more compassionate and respectful discourse. Ultimately, the choice of terminology can vary among individuals and communities, but the aim remains to address the issue with empathy and understanding.

Some notable national facts concerning the unhoused...

  • Despite how many houses are in the US, over 580,000 Americans are experiencing homelessness. There are currently 28 vacant homes for every one person experiencing homelessness in the U.S.
  • While cities like New York City, Los Angeles and Seattle have some of the largest unhoused populations in the country, Detroit has the most vacant homes per unhoused person–116 empty homes per unhoused person.
  • Syracuse, New York has the second-most vacant homes per unhoused person–110 vacant homes per unhoused person.
  • San Jose, California has the highest population of Gen-Z youth experiencing homelessness with nearly 85 unhoused Gen-Zers for every 100,000 residents.
  • Pacific Islander and Black Americans are the populations most at risk to experience homelessness.

How many people in the US are experiencing unsheltered homelessness?

In 2023, a record 256,610 people, or 39.3% of the homeless population, were unsheltered, facing significant challenges and risks associated with living without stable housing. (Source: endhomelessness.org)

Is there a link between housing costs and homelessness?

Yes, the number of renter households spending over 50% of their income on rent increased by 12.6% from 2015 to 2022. This severe housing cost burden is a major contributor to homelessness. (Source: endhomelessness.org)

Locally in Alamogordo resources available to the unhoused are limited but there are available resources...

Alamogordo is in need of more services and outreach to the homeless, addicted and at risk populations. This is one of several community partnerships addressing the need.

To learn more visit Runners Refuge Homeless Resource Center is located at 601 Delaware Ave, Alamogordo NM 88310 or contact the ministries of Runners Refuge. To hear an update on their programs visit https://youtu.be/86SwbiGrPE0?si=etZuUCBj6GBg13K1

Otero Hunger Coalition is a coalition that serves low-income and homeless people in Otero County. Their services include emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and connecting community resources. You can contact them at (575) 551-2939

APS Tiger Care Center is a center that serves homeless and at-risk children and is facilitated by Alamogordo Public Schools. It's primary focus is students and families of students or faculty of Alamogordo Public Schools. You can contact them by calling (575) 430-0191.

Homeless Veterans Initiative is a program that offers supportive housing and services for homeless people. You can call (877) 426-2838.

    A complete resources guide for Otero County on social services is found at 


    https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/DocumentCenter/View/4609/Otero-County-Resource-List---English-2022-PDF

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