Hope is always at the heart of Esperanza Shelter. Today, I’m excited to share news that strengthens our ability to bring that hope to even more individuals and families throughout Northern New Mexico.
Esperanza Shelter’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit status has been retroactively reinstated.
While this milestone is important, what matters most is what it makes possible. Our commitment to survivors has never wavered, and our renewed nonprofit status opens new doors for the future—strengthening partnerships, expanding funding opportunities, and increasing our ability to serve those who need us most.
As we celebrate this new chapter, we also celebrate more than 50 years of serving our community. For generations, Esperanza Shelter has been a trusted source of safety, support, and hope for survivors of domestic violence.
Today, we are building on that legacy by expanding evidence-based, trauma-informed services that help individuals and families move toward safety, healing, and long-term stability.
Throughout the past year, while restoring Esperanza Shelter’s nonprofit status, one thing never changed: our commitment to the people who depend on us. Every day, we work to remove the barriers that keep people from seeking help. Every service we provide is free, confidential, and available in both English & Spanish, because everyone deserves access to safety and support—regardless of their circumstances.
Domestic violence affects people of every age, race, culture, gender, and socioeconomic background. In New Mexico, 1 in 3 people will experience domestic violence in their lifetime—a reminder that this is an issue that impacts our entire community.
The encouraging news is that more people are turning to Esperanza Shelter for help than ever before. Thanks to our extraordinary staff, dedicated Board of Directors, committed volunteers, and supporters like you, Esperanza emerged from the past year stronger than ever. Together, we restored our 501(c)(3) status, strengthened our organization, and—despite operating with limited resources—served 54% more adults and children while delivering 82% more direct client services than the previous year.
Thank you for believing in Esperanza Shelter and standing with survivors and families throughout Northern New Mexico. Your generosity has helped bring us to this exciting new chapter, and together, I know we can accomplish even more.
Together, we are creating safety today and ending violence tomorrow.
Jan McCray, JD
Chief Executive Officer