RIO RANCHO, N.M. — St. Felix Pantry is asking for community support as demand for food assistance continues to grow across New Mexico.
To help raise funds and keep pantry shelves stocked, Affordable Service, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling has donated a Carrier high-efficiency heating and cooling system, including installation labor, valued at up to $25,000.
The system will be awarded through a raffle, with all proceeds benefiting St. Felix Pantry’s efforts to provide food and support services to families in need.
Raffle tickets cost $40 each and will be sold at St. Felix Pantry, located at 4020 Barbara Loop SE in Rio Rancho, from July 6 through Aug. 21. The winning ticket will be drawn on Aug. 22.
The raffle is open to residents of Rio Rancho, Albuquerque, Placitas, Bosque Farms, Peralta, Los Lunas and Algodones.
St. Felix Pantry President and CEO Tim Sheahan said the fundraiser comes at a critical time for the organization.
“The need is so great right now, and we are deeply grateful to local business owners like Affordable Service, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for stepping forward in such a meaningful way,” Sheahan said in a statement. “This support will make a real difference for families who are struggling.”
According to the pantry, summer can be especially challenging for many households because children are home from school and families face increased pressure to provide daily meals. The organization noted that New Mexico continues to have one of the highest rates of food insecurity in the nation.
Affordable Service, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling owner Noah Howland said his family-owned company wanted to give back to the community that has supported the business for decades.
“Our family has been serving New Mexicans for 40 years this August,” Howland said. “We have always been part of this community. Our families are here, our customers are here, and thanks to the support we have received over the past 40 years, we are humbled to be able to give back and help New Mexico families.”
Organizers encourage community members to purchase tickets even if they already have refrigerated air, noting the prize could be gifted to a family member, friend or neighbor.
St. Felix Pantry provides food assistance, support services and referrals to individuals and families in need, regardless of income level. Officials say every raffle ticket sold will help fund the pantry’s mission while giving one winner the chance to receive a new heating and cooling system.
