The Samaritan Inn The only homeless shelter in Collin County

A single mother of three loses her job and can no longer pay her rent. A pregnant 18 year old is told she is no longer welcome in her family's home. A high tech executive loses his house after months of unemployment. Each month of this year, 200-300 homes in Collin County have gone into foreclosure. Over 200 people sleep on the streets in Collin County every night. You've heard these stories and  your heart goes out to these people, but you think, "What can I do about it?" or "Can I really make a difference?" The answer is YES! You can make a huge difference by becoming involved with The Samaritan Inn.  Since 1984, The Samaritan Inn, a non-profit organization, has helped thousands of homeless people in Collin County regain their independence with comprehensive programs and the help of caring individuals and corporations. The Samaritan Inn was established in 1984 after community leaders joined together to address the issue of homelessness in Collin County. Twenty five years later, The Samaritan Inn is still the only homeless shelter in a county of over 762,000 residents. Several facts you need to know: In 2009, 660 people stayed at The Samaritan Inn and approximately 30% of them were children. It takes $42.00 per person, per day to provide food, shelter, training, children's programs and case management services at The Samaritan Inn. Our 2010 budget to continue our community service is $2,000,000.00. About the Inn The Samaritan Inn was established in 1984 after community leaders joined together to address the issue of homelessness in Collin County. Twenty five years later, The Samaritan Inn is still the only homeless shelter in a county of over 762,000 residents. All services and support are provided free of charge through funding made from donations by churches, service groups and  organizations, corporations, and individuals. The Samaritan Inn is also a member of the United Way of Collin County. The Need Homeless families and individuals are the focus at The Samaritan Inn. In 2009, the Inn served 660 residents. The Mission We are a comprehensive homeless program that helps willing people gain dignity and independence. The Goal To help people regain their independence. The Outcome Over 72% of the residents graduated from our program; which means they had an income and housing when they left The Samaritan Inn last year. Our Team The organizational leadership at The Samaritan Inn consists of a volunteer Board of Directors, several committees that focus on specific areas of operation and a staff of thirty-five full and part time employees. A large pool of volunteers also provides critical support. "I came to stay at The Samaritan Inn in late September. When I came, I didn't know what I was going to do about anything. I had a job and a car and two kids, but my kids were with my mother. I didn't like the idea of being away from my kids. I also was not close to God. When I moved into the Inn, there were plenty of lady's that were with God and they showed me the way. Also, the wonderful staff were great. They helped me so much when I needed it. When I was stable enough to have my own place, The Samaritan Inn helped me with whatever I needed. They even helped me move. When I first moved out they gave me food, clothes and even furniture. I have been out for about nine months and they are still helping me with whatever I need, if they have it. They also have sent my kids to summer camps and helped me with school supplies. I want to thank The Samaritan Inn from the bottom of my heart and thank God for having someone help me and my kids." Volunteers Volunteers are an integral part of The Samaritan Inn's success. Please visit our volunteer page for information on how you can help too! Our Program The Samaritan Inn provides, at no cost, a secure and clean place to live. Our building has separate living areas for men, women, and families. We also have a playroom and a fully equipped playground.   We serve three well-balanced meals daily and provide personal hygiene products. If necessary, clothing, coats and shoes are also available. Within this nurturing environment, experienced caseworkers assess each resident and their needs to develop an individual program plan with a goal of independence. Referrals are made for support programs; legal and financial counseling and mental and physical health services. We offer classes in a variety of life skills such as parenting, budgeting, job training. Individual program plans are reviewed regularly to ensure that all the necessary steps are being taken to reach independence in the future.  Residents who “graduate” from The Samaritan Inn receive all the necessary items to set up their own households- from furniture and bedding to lamps, linens and cleaning supplies. Ongoing support is also provided, for as long as necessary, to ensure long-term, permanent independence. In addition to our traditional program, The Samaritan Inn also provides short-term emergency shelter for those individuals who find themselves in a crisis. This may be for a single night or up to a few days. Day laborers often take advantage of this program during the cold weather months. Emergency shelter residents also receive three meals, clean clothing and use of our shower and laundry facilities. (return to top)