06/01/2026
It's been a while since we put an update on Facebook, but, honestly, we have had so much going on there has been little time. As a small (5 people), all volunteer group, we focus our time and attention on working to transition those at Samaritan Center into safe, stable housing. We work to ensure ongoing success and arm them with everything they need to remain successful. This allows us to provide transitional housing to others in our community who find themselves homeless.
The last few months have been spent answering calls (at all hours, 7 days a week, on holidays and when we aren't felling 100%). We average several calls a week for Samaritan Center services. Sometimes we are able to help keep someone housed by stopping an eviction by helping with the rent. Sometimes we can help with utility shut-offs. We refer to other agencies and groups when possible. But many times, Samaritan Center housing is what's needed.
Many times, we have to turn people away because we don't have the funding, our house is full, or not the right fit at the moment. We provide every resource we are able during these times and keep in touch if we can continue to help with things.
Some specifics from these past few months:
*Successfully transitioned one family and 2 individuals into safe, stable housing
*Housed another family of 5 and a single female
*Helped with part of a rent deposit and provided furniture and other household items to those transitioning out
Sometimes, transitioning out of Samaritan Center is hard and scary. Our home is comfortable and safe and everything is provided (those staying with us do not pay anything. All they have to do is provide their own food). We do everything we can to give these families the time and resources to get to a place where they will be financially, emotionally and physically ready to succeed and self-sustain. We also stay in touch, letting them know we are still here to be supporters and cheerleaders. A testament to Samaritan Center is that sometimes those ready to be successful on their own want to stay. It's scary but they take the step knowing that they are ready and also knowing that there is another family who needs Samaritan Center's services.
Here's how you can help us - Our biggest fundraiser of the year will take place in October. The majority of our financial resources come from this fundraiser. Please consider helping us with your time, talent and funds.
Our next meeting, for anyone interested in being a part of the fundraiser or just learning more, will take place on June 9 at 6pm at Faith United Methodist Church, 500 South 7th St, Cambridge. Can't make it? Contact us at 740.408.2388 (or any board member) to get information.
