FAQs - St. Bonaventure

Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School, our programs, and the communities we serve. We hope this information helps you better understand our mission and the work we do alongside the Eastern Navajo Nation.

What is St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School is a Catholic nonprofit serving the Eastern Navajo Nation. It provides education, housing, employment, and essential resources like food and clean water to help families build self-sufficiency.

How long has St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School been serving the community?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School has served the Navajo people for more than 50 years, offering critical resources and compassionate care to families across the Eastern Navajo Reservation.

Where is St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School located?

25 Navarre Blvd W, Thoreau, NM 87323. Phone: 505-862-7847.

Who does St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School serve?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School serves the Diné (Navajo) people in the Eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, one of the most resource-challenged areas in the U.S.

What challenges do families in this region face?

Over 60% of homes lack complete kitchens or bathrooms, and about one-third of households have no running water. Many also struggle with food insecurity, unemployment, and inadequate housing.

What are St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School’s programs?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School operates several initiatives addressing basic needs and long-term self-sufficiency for families across the Eastern Navajo Nation:

Water Delivery Program – Provides clean, potable water to homes without plumbing, delivering about 14,000 gallons daily. Learn more ›
Food Pantry & Meal Programs – Offers groceries, prepared meals, and emergency food boxes to combat hunger. Learn more ›
Housing Support and Repairs – Assists families with home repairs, weatherization, and safe shelter solutions. Learn more ›
Heating Assistance – Supplies firewood, propane, and support during the harsh winter months. Learn more ›
Thrift Store and Clothing Aid – Provides affordable clothing and household goods. Learn more ›
Tuition-Free School (Pre-K to 8th Grade) – Delivers quality education grounded in Catholic values and Navajo culture. Learn more ›
Fitness and Community Center – Encourages wellness and community connection through accessible facilities and programs. Learn more ›

How does the water delivery program work?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School’s trucks deliver about 14,000 gallons of potable water daily to remote homes without plumbing. Families receive large cisterns for safer storage and long-term sustainability.

How is St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School funded?

SBIM relies entirely on donations and grants—no tuition or government funding. Every contribution supports essential services and long-term self-sufficiency initiatives. Learn more ›

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 85-0326009). All eligible donations are tax-deductible.

How can I donate?

Visit stbonaventuremission.org/donate or explore Ways to Give—including online gifts, checks, planned giving, and in-kind support.

What are “Creative Ways to Help”?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School’s giving platform offers options like memorial gifts, bequests, donor-advised funds, and IRA charitable rollovers, allowing supporters to make a lasting impact.

Can I volunteer or visit the mission?

Volunteer opportunities are limited due to location and community logistics but may be available for skilled or partner groups. Contact SBIM directly to discuss how you can help.

How is St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School different from other charities?

St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School is locally embedded—its staff and leadership include Navajo community members. The mission provides hands-on, daily services while respecting Diné traditions and values.

What is the “Mission Messenger”?

It’s St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School’s newsletter sharing updates, success stories, and donor impact reports. Supporters can sign up online to stay connected.

Does St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School partner with other organizations?

Yes. St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School collaborates with NGOs, faith-based groups, media outlets, and corporate donors to expand reach and improve infrastructure across the reservation.

What are the most urgent needs right now?

Funding for water deliveries, home heating assistance, food security, and classroom resources are top priorities—especially during winter and drought periods.

How does St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School promote dignity in its work?

The mission emphasizes empowerment over charity, helping individuals move toward self-reliance while preserving Navajo cultural identity and pride.

How can I stay informed?

Subscribe to email updates at stbonaventuremission.org, and follow SBIM on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

What impact has St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School made?

Each year, St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School delivers millions of gallons of clean water, distributes thousands of meals, repairs homes, and educates future leaders—transforming lives with hope and dignity across the Eastern Navajo Nation.

Thank you for your interest in St. Bonaventure Indian Mission & School and for taking the time to explore how we’re working toward self-sufficiency, dignity, and hope across the Navajo Nation.

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