New Mexico’s Child Support Services Division (CSSD) is marking its 50th anniversary this August. The division reports collecting $119 million for children and families during fiscal year 2025.
A public celebration will take place on Saturday, August 16, at Tiguex Park in Albuquerque from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will include entertainment, games, face painting, food trucks, and free school supplies for school-aged children.
“We want the public to join us as we celebrate five decades of connecting children with the financial support they need,” said Betina Gonzales McCracken, director of the Child Support Services Division at the New Mexico Health Care Authority. “This program has evolved tremendously since 1975, and we’re proud that 99% of the money we collect goes directly to families rather than toward public assistance recoveries.”
According to CSSD, wage withholdings from employed parents accounted for about 65% of collections this fiscal year. Staff members will be present at the anniversary event to accept applications and answer questions about no-cost services offered by the program.
Over the past six years, CSSD has focused on modernization efforts through statewide outreach events. These initiatives aim to make it easier for parents to access services such as locating absent parents, establishing parentage, setting court orders, enforcing those orders, and helping parents find employment when necessary.
“Most people don’t realize the full range of services we provide until they attend our outreach events,” said Gonzales McCracken. “Once they learn what’s available, they either apply themselves or refer someone they know, which has led to more families getting the support they need.”
Parents can apply for assistance online at YES.NM.GOV or by calling the HCA Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465 throughout Child Support Awareness Month and beyond.
Information regarding Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s proclamation for Child Support Awareness Month is available on the CSSD page. Details about the anniversary celebration can be found on the 50th Anniversary Event Page.
