When considering the vast number of impoverished people in the world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It can seem that despite one’s best efforts, poverty still endures. Why extend a helping hand in one place when a hundred other needs still need to be met?
For 30 years Good Samaritans, a nonprofit organization in Garland, has stood as a shining example of how to jump into the fray. Rather than backing away, the people at Good Samaritans focus on what they can do to help, by supplying basic needs such as food and utilities.
Good Samaritans serves people through a client-based system. Those who need assistance can call on Fridays and make an appointment, so that Good Samaritans members can talk with them to find out what their needs are. From there, the employees and volunteers do their best to meet those needs.
In addition to providing food, Good Samaritans also understands that these people need to learn to help themselves. Thus, assistance with financial literacy is available to help clients get back on their feet.
Good Samaritans is very connected to the people of Garland and surrounding communities. The organization works with other food banks and donors, collecting an average of 40,000-50,000 pounds of food that go in and out of its pantry every month.
Because of this massive flow of donations, volunteers are always appreciated and there are a variety of ways to pitch in. Good Samaritans believes firmly in using the individual talents of every person who offers to help, so there is always a spot just right for you.
There are also ways to help aside from volunteering one’s services. The organization welcomes any non-expired, nonperishable food items, as well as any financial contributions to support their cause. One can even host a food drive through a church or other organization, or simply knock on doors and collect cans.
Good Samaritans works to stay true to their mission: People Helping People with Passion and Purpose in Garland and GISD Communities.
For more information, call 972-276-2263 or email pam.swendig@goodsamofgarland.org. You can also visit their website at www.GoodSamofGarland.org or their location at 214 N. 12th Street in Garland.