Legislative Update

During this legislative session, Esperanza Shelter proudly advocated for policies that strengthen support for survivors and the agencies that serve them.

One of the most critical measures was HB 130, which sought an additional $5 million in funding for domestic violence service providers across New Mexico. While this bill did not advance out of committee, it reflected the growing recognition of the urgent needs facing survivors statewide. Similarly, HB 2 did not include new funding for domestic violence services this year.

We are encouraged, however, by the passage of SM 22. This memorial establishes a task force of relevant state agencies to examine the transparency and accountability of the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) regarding legislative funds designated for domestic violence services. The task force will review how funds are administered and distributed — including who receives them and for what purposes — and will provide recommendations on the level of funding needed to fully support domestic violence services across New Mexico.

Through multiple public records requests submitted by the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence, we have learned that state funding for domestic violence services has declined each year since FY23. At the same time, demand for services continues to rise. Here at Esperanza Shelter, requests for support have increased between 30–50% in the last fiscal year alone — a trend reflected across our sister shelters throughout the state.

As public funding decreases and community need grows, your support becomes even more vital. Your generosity ensures that survivors in North Central New Mexico have access to safe shelter, advocacy, and the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Thank you for standing with survivors and with Esperanza Shelter. Together, we continue to provide safety, hope, and healing when it matters most.

Impact Report is Now Available

Esperanza Shelter's 2024/2025 annual report is here! We are excited to share news about our successful programs, services and new efforts. Our service numbers are always a highlight, and in the report you'll see that we provided more than 5,000 bed nights and 3,200 services free of charge over the course of the year.

Another highlight for our work in 2025 is the Santa Fe Strangulation Task Force started by Esperanza CEO Jan McCray, bringing together key community partners to create a unified response to strangulation, grow awareness for what is often the "last warning shot" before homicide, and reduce domestic violence-related homicides and injuries.

READ OUR IMPACT REPORT

Program Highlight: Court Advocacy

Courtrooms, legal procedures, and unfamiliar terminology can feel overwhelming — especially for survivors of domestic violence who must face the person who harmed them. For many, the legal system is not only confusing, but deeply intimidating.

Esperanza Shelter’s Court Advocacy Program exists to ensure survivors do not have to navigate that process alone.

Our court advocates assist survivors with filing Orders of Protection, child custody paperwork, and divorce documents, and they help individuals understand and navigate the criminal justice process. While advocates are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice, they prepare survivors for hearings, explain what to expect, and offer steady, compassionate support — including accompanying them to court.

The impact of this program continues to grow. Last fiscal year, our court advocates served 156 clients and provided 1,012 services. In just the first half of this fiscal year alone, they have already served 272 clients and delivered more than 1,800 services — a powerful reflection of both the increasing need in our community and the trust survivors place in Esperanza Shelter.

We are deeply proud of Ashley, Brett, and Donna for the dedication, professionalism, and heart they bring to this work every day. Because of supporters like you, survivors walk into court with knowledge, advocacy, and someone by their side.

Thank you for making this life-changing support possible.

Awareness and Education

Did you know that the Esperanza Shelter team offers community education sessions? We are available to speak to schools, businesses and other organizations and groups to share information about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, as well as other topics including teen dating violence, elder abuse, domestic violence in the workplace, and strangulation. To schedule a session for your group, please call 505-394-1061. 

Esperanza's Counseling Services

The trauma experienced by survivors of domestic violence can affect every aspect of their lives — but with the right support, healing is possible.

Esperanza Shelter offers free, confidential individual counseling for both adults and children, providing a safe space to process trauma, rebuild confidence, and begin the journey toward healing. We also offer survivor support groups for both men and women, creating opportunities for connection, shared understanding, and community.

In addition, our Abuse Intervention Program works with individuals who are seeking to change harmful behaviors in their relationships. Participants may be court-ordered or may choose to attend voluntarily, engaging in weekly sessions focused on accountability, healthy communication, and building safer, non-violent relationships.

To learn more about counseling services for adults or children, please call 505-416-8415.

To learn more about our Abuse Intervention Program, please call 505-416-8411.

Because of your support, these critical services remain accessible to individuals and families working to create safer futures for themselves and their loved ones. Thank you for helping make healing possible.

"Blooming through Adversity" is the theme of this year's event at Hotel Glorieta. Proceeds from this event benefit Esperanza Shelter, so be sure to get your tickets soon!