Good Samaritans of Garland experienced a large increase in the number of clients served from 2021 to 2022. The organization served 49,975 clients in 2021 and 63,281 in 2022. The number of meals provided in 2021 increased from 807,377 to 1,050,087 in 2022. So far in 2023, Good Sam has served 2,715 individuals. The total breaks down to 377 children, 607 seniors and 1,731 adults.
Food-insecurity or hunger can be the result of various issues, and there are many emergencies that can quickly change a family’s situation. Illness or a death in the family, loss of a job or the need to take care of grandchildren or elderly family members are just a few examples.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a drastic financial effect on numerous families. And now, inflation is high and causing problems. The increase in the cost of groceries, utility bills and gasoline, to name just a few, The current Inflation rate has caused devastating financial problems for many
families.
Homelessness is also increasing, and 8% of the clients served by Good Sam in 2022 were unhoused. They provided 974 food bags and 99 hygiene bags to unhoused individuals. Some unhoused guests also received seasonal clothing like T-shirts in the summer and warmer items in the winter such as coats, hats, scarves, gloves and blankets.
Hunger and food-insecurity affect everyone, all ages, races and ethnicities. In 2022, 44% of Good Sam’s clients were Hispanic; 24% were Black; 23% were Caucasian and 9% were members of other races.
All are welcome
Everyone receives a warm welcome from the staff and volunteers at Good Sam. All clients are treated with respect, understanding and kindness. The organization serves Garland, Rowlett and Sachse.
Good Sam depends on assistance from several groups to provide food to hungry and food-insecure families and individuals. Donations from individuals in the community comprise 32% of the assistance they receive. Fundraising provides 19% of the funding. Foundations, corporations and churches provide the remaining 49%.
Location/hours
Good Sam is located at 214 North 12th Street in Garland. Call 972-276-2263 or visit www. www.goodsamofgarland.org/ for more information.
They are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The office is closed from noon to 1 p.m.
Celebrate 40 years of feeding, helping and serving with Good Samaritans of Garland.