Luján Meets with FEMA, Visits Santa Fe to Highlight Investments For Pojoaque Valley Schools and La Familia Health Clinic  

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) met virtually with FEMA staff to discuss updates regarding the implementation of his Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, including the establishment of the Claims Office and the claims process. Last year, the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act led by Senator Luján and the New Mexico Democratic Delegation was signed into law to deliver $3.95 billion to New Mexicans impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. On January 4, Luján and the New Mexico Congressional Delegation filed a letter to FEMA outlining changes and concerns with the outlined process. 

Next, Senator Luján visited his alma mater at the Pojoaque Valley School District to highlight the $1.15 million secured for two projects that will help ensure Pojoaque Valley Schools are provided the tools and resources that students and educators need to succeed. Luján heard from students, teachers and the School Board about the importance of keeping up with the fast pace advancements in technology and the need to address housing costs for educators in the district. Senator Luján secured $750,000 for the Pojoaque Valley Teacherage Housing Project and $400,000 for technology upgrades for remote and hybrid learning. 

Ending the day, Senator Luján visited La Familia Health Clinic to highlight the $472,000 federal funding secured for HVAC units, a commercial hot water tank, generators, and vans. La Familia Health Clinic provides health care services for more than 18,000 patients in Santa Fe. 

“Today’s conversations demonstrated how support and investments from the federal level will benefit our communities locally,” said Senator Luján. “For our communities impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, I’m glad to have met with FEMA to receive an update on the claims process and ensure this process is easy, efficient, and free of red tape. New Mexicans impacted by this fire have already suffered and need to know they can get the resources to more fully recover and rebuild.”

“I was also proud to hold conversations with New Mexico students, educators, and health practitioners on the impact this federal funding will have in Santa Fe. I look forward to returning to Washington next week to continue to fight for legislation and funding throughout New Mexico,” Luján continued.

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