Holy Cross Medical Center (HCMC) has been awarded a three-year $150,000 federal grant to expand its free Benefit Navigation, or Health Insurance Support, program for the Taos community.
The funding comes through the National Council on Aging’s Center for Economic Well-Being as part of its Benefits Enrollment Center program. HCMC is one of 90 organizations selected nationwide in this grant cycle, across 39 states and Puerto Rico. It is the only organization in New Mexico to receive this award.
The 30-month grant runs from February 1, 2026 through July 31, 2028. This new funding will strengthen and expand the hospital’s existing Benefit Navigation services, with added focus on supporting adults age 65 and older and adults living with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Over the course of this grant, the program expects to submit at least 600 applications to help eligible residents access important benefits.
Holy Cross Medical Center’s Benefit Navigation team provides free, one-on-one assistance with new applications and renewals for a variety of public benefit programs. The team takes the time to guide each person step by step, making the process easier to understand and less overwhelming. The additional grant funding allows the team to dedicate more time and outreach to older adults and adults with disabilities who may be especially vulnerable to rising health care and living costs.
Eligible individuals may receive free help applying for:
- Medicare Part D Extra Help, which lowers prescription drug costs
- Medicare Savings Program, which helps pay Medicare premiums and other medical costs
- Medicaid – for Disability recipients who are within their 24-month Medicare waiting period
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps individuals and families afford groceries
The team also shares information about preventive services covered by Medicare to help community members stay healthy.
“We are very excited because this grant will make a real difference for the people of Taos County,” said Mary Walker, Benefit Navigation Coordinator at Holy Cross Medical Center. “Many do not realize that our help is completely free. With this funding, we can reach more older adults and adults with disabilities to make sure they are not missing out on benefits that can ease their financial stress.”
“When our neighbors can afford their medications, medical care, and groceries, their health improves,” said Jeannie Ross, Director of Community Health Services at HCMC. “This funding allows us to strengthen a program we already believe in and expand our support for some of the community members who need it most.”
Community members who would like free assistance can schedule an appointment by calling (575) 751-8939 or emailing marywa@taoshospital.org.
As part of the grant, HCMC will host regular outreach events to raise awareness and provide enrollment assistance throughout the community.