City of Albuquerque offers lodging, resources to more than 1,500 fire evacuees

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Thousands of people have had to leave their homes in northern New Mexico because of the massive Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire. Many have had to go from hotel to hotel just to have a place to stay. Now, the City of Albuquerque is getting involved to make things a little easier.

City officials said there are about 1,500 evacuees in Albuquerque right now and close to half of them are staying in hotels – spending hundreds of dollars a day while dealing with the trauma of the fire.

While they don’t know when they can go back or what’s next for them, some relief is on the way. The City of Albuquerque announced that evacuees won’t have to pay a cent for their hotel rooms or food while they are in the city.

State Rep. Roger Montoya, D-Velarde, said he’s been in talks with the city and other organizations to help communities under evacuation orders. He’s heard from numerous families who are incredibly thankful for the help.

KOB 4 was also told that evacuees will be able to receive emotional services as well. This relief will stay in place for weeks and could be extended if needed.

There will also be a community hub set up Monday where evacuees can receive food boxes and other much-needed supplies. City officials said more information on the community hub will be posted online.

Those in need of lodging can access rooms as they become available by calling 505-244-8604.

Evacuees interested in receiving text alerts with information on resources and more can text ABQEVAC to 78015. Albuquerque residents interested in helping can find a list of donation needs here. Evacuees from impacted areas can get updated information by visiting cabq.gov/wildfires or calling 311 or 505-768-2000 for those calling from outside of the city.

The city continues to provide free access to the zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens and Balloon Museum for evacuees.