Local nonprofits receive Blue Cross grants

Las Cruces nonprofits will receive grant funds from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico’s (BCBSNM) COVID-19 Community Collaborative Grant Fund.

La Casa, Inc. domestic violence program, with offices in Las Cruces and Anthony, will receive $10,000

“to provide services for individuals experiencing domestic violence,” a news release said.

“The funds from BCBSNM provide hope to La Casa, Inc.,” said La Casa, Inc. Executive Director Henry Brutus. “In a time of chaos and despair around the world, BCBSNM gives us a lifeline, which signals that in a time of isolation and quarantine, there are still wonderful and caring people who care about those around them and want to stay connected.”

The All Together NM Fund will receive $500,000 “to support the immediate and long-term needs of our communities, businesses and employees facing income insecurity,” BCBSNM said. “This fund was announced by Gov. (Michelle) Lujan Grisham and established by the New Mexico Coalition of Community Foundations, which includes the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico,” which is based in Las Cruces. 

Roadrunner Food Bank will receive $250,000 “to support food distribution and mobile food pantries for the general population and senior centers throughout the state, including regional food banks serving at-risk communities in southern New Mexico,” the news release said. Roadrunner’s partners include Casa de Peregrinos emergency food program, which is based in Las Cruces and serves those in need throughout Doña Ana County.

“BCBSNM is dedicated to helping our fellow New Mexicans, and we are proud to offer support in the fight against COVID-19,” said BCBSNM President Kurt Shipley.

BCBSNM, founded in 1940, has 630,000 clients in the state, the news release said.  BCBSNM is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, the country’s largest customer-owned health insurer and fourth largest health insurer overall.