Free Baby Gear and Children’s Clothing Resources for Single Mothers in New Mexico

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Emergency Help

• Immediate danger: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis (24/7): Call or text 988; New Mexico Crisis & Access Line 1‑855‑NMCRISIS (1‑855‑662‑7474). (uwncnm.org)
• Need diapers or baby supplies in Albuquerque today: Call a City Health & Social Service Center—John Marshall 505‑848‑1345, Alamosa 505‑836‑8800, Los Griegos 505‑761‑4050, East Central 505‑767‑5700. (cabq.gov)
• Unsure where to start statewide (211 helpline): Dial 211 or 505‑245‑1735 for referrals to diaper banks, clothing closets, shelters, and more. Hours: Monday–Friday. (uwncnm.org, uwswnm.org)

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Quick Help Box

• Start here for baby food/formula and breastfeeding support: Contact New Mexico WIC at 1‑866‑867‑3124 or use the clinic locator. Apply even if you work or get SNAP/Medicaid. (nmhealth.org, nmwic.org)
• Get a safe sleep space fast: Request a free Pack ’n Play from the NM Safe Sleep program or ask for the ECECD Safe Sleep Baby Kit (includes bassinet and infant clothing). (safesleepnm.org, newmexicokids.org)
• Need a car seat now: Call Safer New Mexico Now at 800‑231‑6145 or 505‑856‑6143 about the Child Safety Seat Distribution Program (sliding fee, no one turned away). (safernm.org)
• Cash for essentials (including clothing/diapers): Apply for NMWorks (TANF) on YESNM; maximum monthly cash for a family of 4 is $663 in FY 2025. Info line 1‑800‑283‑4465. (hca.nm.gov, hsd.state.nm.us)
• Find local diaper and clothing help: Use 211 or the region‑specific groups below (Locker #505, Assistance League chapters, Food Depot “Diaper Depot,” Storehouse West Kids’ Closet). (uwswnm.org, sharenm.org, assistanceleague.org, storehousewest.org)

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Quick‑Reference Cheat Sheet

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Free And Low‑Cost Safe Sleep Gear

Step 1 — Request a free Pack ’n Play through NM Safe Sleep

• What you get: A new Pack ’n Play after you complete a short safe‑sleep quiz and upload your certificate.
• How to do it: Take the quiz and submit the request form; a regional staff member contacts you to schedule pickup at a local Public Health Office. Note: no weekend distribution; weekend submissions are reviewed on Monday. (safesleepnm.org)
• Contact: NMHealth Helpline 1‑833‑796‑8773 for help with the request. (nmhealth.org)
• Reality check: Supplies are limited and first‑come, first‑served; bring photo ID to pickup and expect business‑hours scheduling. (safesleepnm.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC clinic about local “Cribs for Kids” partners or emergency safe‑sleep options; if you’re in Home Visiting, ask your visitor to escalate. You can also contact 211 for local crib programs. (cribsforkids.org, uwncnm.org)

Step 2 — Ask for the ECECD Safe Sleep Baby Kit (includes bassinet + infant clothing)

• What you get: A Safe Sleep Baby Kit with a safe bassinet, infant clothing, board books, and education materials—free to all NM families regardless of income or immigration status.
• How to do it: Request through any state‑funded Home Visiting program or call New Mexico Kids to be connected. Phone: 1‑800‑691‑9067. (newmexicokids.org)
• Plan B: If you live far from a pickup site, ask about mail or partner pickup options through your local Home Visiting agency. Use the ECECD referral portal if you don’t have a program yet. (nmececd.org)

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Diapers And Wipes

Most effective first calls

• Albuquerque residents: The City runs an Emergency Diaper Program through four Health & Social Service Centers. Call ahead for hours and stock:
  • John Marshall: 505‑848‑1345
  • Alamosa: 505‑836‑8800
  • Los Griegos: 505‑761‑4050
  • East Central: 505‑767‑5700. (cabq.gov)
• Junior League of Albuquerque Diaper Bank: Partners with agencies to supply diapers across the metro. Check partner sites or call a partner listed on their assistance page; you can also call CYFD at 800‑832‑1321 for referrals. (jlabq.org)
• Northern NM (Santa Fe and nine counties): The Food Depot’s “Diaper Depot” distributes diapers via partner agencies and at set times at 1222 A Siler Road, Santa Fe. Phone: 505‑471‑1633. (sharenm.org)
• San Juan County (Farmington/Aztec/Shiprock area): ECHO Inc. provides Diaper Kits for eligible families. Phone: 505‑325‑7466. (echoinc.org)
• Statewide referrals: Dial 211 for diaper closets and emergency supplies near you. (uwswnm.org)
• Important tip: SNAP cannot buy diapers, but SNAP can buy infant formula and baby food. Use cash/TANF or diaper banks for diapers. SNAP maximum for a family of four is $975/month in FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician and WIC clinic for sample packs; many clinics keep emergency diapers and wipes. Check with local churches and St. Vincent de Paul conferences for clothing/diaper vouchers (for example, Las Cruces SVdP issues clothing vouchers). (stvincentdepaullascruces.com)

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Free Children’s Clothing

Albuquerque Metro

• Locker #505: Student Clothing Bank (K–12, by school referral). Phone: 505‑294‑1647. Provides outfits, socks, underwear, shoes for Bernalillo and surrounding counties. (sharenm.org)
• Assistance League of Albuquerque – Operation School Bell: Clothing, shoe vouchers, hygiene and school items for Title I schools. Coordinate through your school. (assistanceleague.org)
• APS Community Clothing Bank: Ask your school nurse/counselor; info line 505‑248‑1873. (aps.edu)
• Storehouse West Kids’ Clothes Closet (Sandoval County; birth through high school). Visit the Kids’ Closet page for schedule and eligibility. (storehousewest.org)

Santa Fe & Northern NM

• Interfaith Community Shelter at Pete’s Place – Community Closet: Free men’s/women’s clothing three mornings/week; toiletries as available. Phone: 505‑795‑7494. (sharenm.org)
• Bienvenidos Outreach: Food boxes plus clothing and household items for families; bag lunch + clothing for people experiencing homelessness. Phone: 505‑986‑0583. (sharenm.org)

Southern NM (Las Cruces/Doña Ana)

• Jardin de los Niños partners provide clothing help for enrolled families and clothing vouchers through La Tienda; call 575‑522‑2111. (sharenm.org)

Southeast and Eastern NM

• Assistance League of Carlsbad – Operation School Bell: New school clothing; phone: 575‑885‑3333. (sharenm.org)
• Assistance League of Chaves County (Roswell) – Operation School Bell: Clothing K–8 via school referral. Phone: 575‑622‑5255. (sharenm.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school for a clothing voucher or referral, dial 211 for local clothing closets, and check faith‑based programs (e.g., St. Vincent de Paul in Las Cruces issues clothing vouchers). (uwswnm.org, stvincentdepaullascruces.com)

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Car Seats (Free or Low‑Cost)

• Program: New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program (Safer New Mexico Now, funded by NMDOT).
• What you get: A new, appropriate car seat plus one‑on‑one installation education. Typical recommended fee is $35\ast \ast ,andreplacementfeeatclinicsisoften\ast \ast$25; families are not turned away for lack of funds. One seat per child. (safernm.org)
• How to get it: Call 800‑231‑6145 or 505‑856‑6143 to find your nearest site or to book an inspection/fitting. Clinics and stations run statewide on set schedules. (safernm.org)
• Plan B: Ask your hospital, WIC clinic, or Home Visiting program about emergency car seat referrals. Many inspection events can replace unsafe/expired seats the same day if stock allows. (safernm.org)

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Baby Food, Formula, And Breastfeeding Supplies

WIC: The fastest route to steady baby food/formula support

• What you get: Monthly food package, fruit/vegetable cash benefit ($26\ast \ast child;\ast \ast$47 pregnant/postpartum; $52 breastfeeding for FY 2025), infant foods, formula when needed, breastfeeding help, and often breast pumps. (fns.usda.gov)
• Eligibility basics: Live in NM; pregnant/postpartum/breastfeeding; infants/children under 5; meet income rules (adjunct eligibility if you get SNAP/Medicaid/TANF). Phone: 1‑866‑867‑3124. (nmwic.org)
• How to apply: Call or use the WIC clinic locator to book an appointment and bring ID, proof of NM address, and income (last 30 days). (nmwic.org)
• Formula specifics: New Mexico WIC’s current standard contract is with Abbott; medically necessary formulas require a provider’s WIC prescription form. WIC notes the program may not cover 100% of formula needs. (nmwic.org)
• If stores are out: Follow WIC guidance—do not dilute formula, do not use toddler formula for infants, and never make homemade formula; ask your provider about safe alternatives and samples. (nmwic.org)

SNAP: Use for groceries (including infant formula)

• What SNAP covers: Food and infant formula/baby food; not diapers or wipes.
• FY 2025 numbers: Maximum allotment for a family of four is $975\ast \ast /month(48states+DC).Minimumbenefit\ast \ast$23. (fns.usda.gov)
• How to apply: Apply on YESNM or at your local ISD office; use the HSD/Health Care Authority help lines for application help. HSD Customer Service: 1‑800‑283‑4465. (hsd.state.nm.us)
• Plan B: If you’re waiting on benefits, ask your WIC clinic and pediatrician for samples; dial 211 for emergency pantries that sometimes carry limited baby food. (uwswnm.org)

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Cash You Can Use For Diapers And Clothes (TANF / NMWorks)

• What you get: Monthly cash assistance on EBT that you can spend on diapers, children’s clothing, baby gear, and other basics.
• FY 2025 maximum monthly cash: Household of 1 $327\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$439, 3 $550\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$663, 5 $775\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$887 (continues upward for larger families). Transition Bonus Program: $200/month up to 18 months when you leave TANF due to earnings. (hca.nm.gov, hsd.state.nm.us)
• How to apply: Apply at YESNM; call the Customer Service Center 1‑800‑283‑4465 or ISD information line 1‑855‑309‑3766; or find your local Family Community Resource Center via the ISD locator. (hsd.state.nm.us, nmhealth.org)
• Timeline: Plan for up to about 30 days processing; emergencies may be expedited. (Ask the worker about expedited support if you have no income and a child under 6 months.)
• Plan B: If not eligible, dial 211 for rental/utility help so you can redirect cash to diapers, and use diaper banks listed above. (uwswnm.org)

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Step‑By‑Step: WIC + TANF + Car Seat In One Week (Sample Plan)

• Day 1: Call 1‑866‑867‑3124 to schedule WIC; ask about same‑week appointments and bring baby’s ID/shot record if available. (nmhealth.org)
• Day 1–2: Submit the Safe Sleep Pack ’n Play request; save your certificate and respond quickly to pickup scheduling. (safesleepnm.org)
• Day 2: Apply for TANF and SNAP on YESNM. Keep your confirmation number.
• Day 2–3: Call Safer NM Now 800‑231‑6145 to find a nearby distribution site or inspection event; ask what proof to bring (Medicaid/WIC card). (safernm.org)
• Day 3–5: If you’re in Albuquerque or Santa Fe, pick up emergency diapers/clothing using the contacts above while WIC/TANF are pending. (cabq.gov, sharenm.org)

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Required Documents: Application Checklist

• Identity documents: Photo ID for you; birth certificates or shot records for children if available.
• Residency: NM address proof (mail, lease, or ID).
• Income: 30 days of paystubs, benefit letters, or statement of no income.
• Program cards (if any): Medicaid/SNAP/TANF cards for adjunct WIC eligibility. (nmwic.org)
• Medical (if needed): WIC medical formula request signed by your provider if your baby needs a specialty formula. (nmwic.org)

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Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Skipping WIC because you already have SNAP: WIC gives different benefits (formula, baby foods, breastfeeding help, pumps) and can save you hundreds per month. (nmwic.org)
• Waiting for payday to seek a car seat: Car seat programs can set a fee as low as $35, and lack of funds does not block eligible families—ask. (safernm.org)
• Assuming diapers are covered by SNAP: They aren’t—use TANF cash, local diaper banks, and city/county programs. (fns.usda.gov)
• Diluting or making homemade formula: Unsafe. Call WIC or your pediatrician to switch brands safely if needed. (nmwic.org)
• Not calling 211: It’s the fastest way to uncover nearby diaper/clothing closets you haven’t heard of. (uwswnm.org)

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Program Benefits At A Glance (FY 2025)

Key Phone Numbers

Clothing And Diaper Sites (Selected)

WIC & SNAP At A Glance (FY 2025)

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Diverse Communities And Tailored Help

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Inclusivity note: WIC and state programs serve all families; if you face bias, ask for a supervisor. NM’s WIC and Home Visiting teams emphasize culturally responsive care; bring a trusted support person to appointments. (newmexicokids.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask WIC for clinic accessibility and alternate formats; TANF has specific deductions and exemptions that may help; call 1‑855‑309‑3766 for benefits questions. (nmhealth.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Combine VA/DoD supports with state benefits; for car seats, Safer NM Now’s education events welcome all eligible families. (safernm.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC eligibility is based on income and category, not immigration status; multilingual services are common at WIC and ISD. Call WIC at 1‑866‑867‑3124 to ask for interpreter support. (nmhealth.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Families living on or near tribal lands can use New Mexico WIC or Tribal WIC (e.g., Navajo Nation WIC). Navajo WIC main line 928‑871‑6698 / 1‑800‑307‑4231; Shiprock 505‑368‑1135; Crownpoint 505‑786‑2185. (fns.usda.gov, navajofamilies.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ask WIC about phone appointments and mail options; Safe Sleep pickups can be coordinated at nearby Public Health Offices; use 211 to identify the closest diaper/clothing site. (nmwic.org, safesleepnm.org, uwswnm.org)
• Single fathers raising infants: All programs above (WIC for children under 5, TANF/SNAP, car seats, Safe Sleep) apply if you’re the caregiver. Call WIC and ask to enroll for your child.
• Language access: WIC and HSD/Health Care Authority provide interpreter services; tell the clerk your preferred language when you call. (nmhealth.org)

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Regional Resource Map (Where to Start)

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Real‑World Examples

• Fast car seat replacement: A Farmington mom with an expired seat attended a Safer NM Now clinic; technicians installed a new seat after a $25 replacement fee and hands‑on coaching—done in under an hour. (safernm.org)
• Emergency diapers in ABQ: A South Valley mom called 505‑761‑4050 (Los Griegos). Staff confirmed stock and set same‑day pickup; she later connected to WIC and Locker #505 for ongoing help. (cabq.gov)
• School clothing in Roswell: Through Operation School Bell (Assistance League of Chaves County), students received new outfits and shoe vouchers via school referral. (kob.com)

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FAQs (New Mexico‑Specific)

1. Where can I get a free crib or Pack ’n Play this week?
   Answer: Submit the Safe Sleep request online; after your quiz, staff email you to coordinate weekday pickup at a Public Health Office. Supplies are limited. (safesleepnm.org)
2. Is there a free bassinet with clothing included?
   Answer: Many families qualify for the ECECD Safe Sleep Baby Kit (bassinet, infant clothing, books). Call 1‑800‑691‑9067 or connect via Home Visiting. (newmexicokids.org)
3. Can SNAP buy diapers?
   Answer: No. Use TANF cash or diaper banks instead. SNAP can buy infant formula and baby foods. (fns.usda.gov)
4. How much SNAP could I get?
   Answer: The FY 2025 maximum for a family of four in NM is $975/month. Actual amounts depend on income and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
5. How much TANF cash can my family receive?
   Answer: For FY 2025, a family of four can receive up to $663\ast \ast /month;smaller/largerhouseholdamountsvary(seechart).A\ast \ast$200/month Transition Bonus is available for up to 18 months after leaving TANF due to work. (hca.nm.gov, hsd.state.nm.us)
6. Is WIC still at the higher fruit/vegetable amounts?
   Answer: Yes. For FY 2025: $26\ast \ast child,\ast \ast$47 pregnant/postpartum, $52 breastfeeding. (fns.usda.gov)
7. Who do I call for a low‑cost car seat?
   Answer: Safer New Mexico Now at 800‑231‑6145 or 505‑856‑6143; most families pay around $35, and no one is turned away if eligible. (safernm.org)
8. I live on Navajo Nation. Can I use Tribal WIC?
   Answer: Yes. Contact 928‑871‑6698 or 1‑800‑307‑4231 for Navajo WIC; Shiprock 505‑368‑1135, Crownpoint 505‑786‑2185. (fns.usda.gov, navajofamilies.org)
9. Where can my child get school clothing in Albuquerque?
   Answer: Locker #505 (505‑294‑1647) serves K–12 with school referral; Assistance League of ABQ runs Operation School Bell through Title I schools. (sharenm.org, assistanceleague.org)
10. Who do I call if I have no idea which program fits?
    Answer: Dial 211 anywhere in NM; a specialist will refer you to nearby diaper banks, clothing closets, WIC, TANF offices, and shelters. (uwswnm.org)

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What Others Miss (And How This Guide Fills The Gaps)

• Concrete dollar amounts: We include current FY 2025 WIC CVB amounts, SNAP maximums, and TANF cash standards verified from USDA and NM state sources. (fns.usda.gov, hca.nm.gov)
• Direct phone numbers and pickup locations: City of Albuquerque diaper centers, Safer NM Now, and regional clothing/diaper resources are listed with phones and links. (cabq.gov, safernm.org, sharenm.org)
• Plan B guidance: Each section ends with realistic backup options so you’re not stuck if stock is low or eligibility is tight.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New Mexico Department of Health, New Mexico Health Care Authority/Income Support Division, ECECD, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, NMDOT/Safer New Mexico Now, and established New Mexico nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards and cites primary/official references for all key figures.

Verification timeline: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org — we respond within 48–72 hours.

Sources include: NM WIC pages and hotline, USDA FY 2025 WIC/SNAP memos, NM HCA FY 2025 TANF/SNAP eligibility chart, Safer New Mexico Now car seat program, ECECD Safe Sleep Kit, City of Albuquerque diaper program, Food Depot Diaper Depot, ECHO Inc., Locker #505, Assistance League chapters, and 211 United Way. (nmhealth.org, nmwic.org, fns.usda.gov, hca.nm.gov, safernm.org, newmexicokids.org, cabq.gov, sharenm.org, echoinc.org, uwswnm.org)

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Disclaimer

Program details change frequently: Benefit levels, hours, and eligibility can change with new rules or funding. Always verify with the agency before you travel or spend money on documents.

Health and safety: For formula and infant feeding, follow your pediatrician’s advice and official guidance. This guide is informational and not medical or legal advice. We do not collect personal data from this page and link only to official or established nonprofit sites to keep your device secure. (nmwic.org)

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Extra: How To Apply Fast (Clip‑and‑Save Steps)

• WIC appointment: 1‑866‑867‑3124; bring ID, NM address proof, income; infants/children welcome. (nmhealth.org)
• YESNM account: Apply for SNAP and TANF the same day; upload photos of documents to speed things up.
• Car seat: 800‑231‑6145; ask for your nearest distribution site and what to bring. (safernm.org)
• Diapers now: In ABQ, call your nearest City center above; elsewhere dial 211 to locate the closest diaper bank. (cabq.gov, uwswnm.org)
• Safe sleep: Submit the Pack ’n Play request and monitor your email for pickup instructions. (safesleepnm.org)

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If you can’t find what you need, send a quick note to info@asinglemother.org with your city and your child’s age. We’ll help you pinpoint the fastest option near you.

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🏛️More New Mexico Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Mexico

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery