Program served 62,600 children in fiscal year 2026

SANTA FE — New Mexico’s Child Support Services program collected and distributed nearly $119 million to families during the 2026 fiscal year to help pay for groceries, school supplies, and other basic needs for more than 62,600 children statewide. 

During Child Support Awareness Month in August, the New Mexico Health Care Authority is highlighting a program that did far more than collecting payments. It helped parents navigate the system and connected families with resources that provide long-term stability.

“Child support is about more than collecting payments. It’s about helping parents navigate the process, connecting families with resources and making sure children have the financial support they need to succeed,” said Melanie Vigil, acting director of the New Mexico Child Support Services Division.

During FY 2026, the program managed 41,850 active child support cases, serving 146,300 New Mexicans—including parents, caregivers and dependent children. About 99% of collections went directly to families and roughly 65% of all payments were collected through wage withholding; a process that helps ensure consistent support reaches children.

The program helps families establish and maintain parentage, establish and modify financial and medical support orders, enforce court-ordered support and connect parents with employment resources through the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.

Health Care Authority staff also participated in more than 50 outreach events across New Mexico — including in Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Hobbs, Clovis, Silver City. These events connected more than 100,000 community members with information about available services.

To learn more about Child Support Services or apply for services, visit www.yes.nm.gov

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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.