Samaritan House

I've been volunteering with Samaritan House for 13 years so far.... I started distributing food back when my son was in 5th Grade and he asked me to volunteer with him. He is now 24 years old! I still volunteer monthly, recruiting youth to help distribute food to 75-95 families and individuals. This past Friday was September's food distro; we had 5 minutes in between clients and I asked the Samaritan House case worker to give a short talk on the nonprofit to the 16 volunteers. Four volunteers were first-time volunteers; other high schoolers volunteers have been coming since they were in middle school! By the end of the food distribution, a small group of volunteers were planning to set up food drives at their local high schools. I love engaging youth in Samaritan House, a key nonprofit in our San Mateo county.

In addition to introducing Samaritan House by recruiting & volunteering with youth, I've been a part of the annual auction/GALA fundraising for the past 8 years and joined the board 4 years ago.

I believe in Samaritan House’s holistic approach to poverty which goes beyond the basic needs of food, shelter, medical care, and clothing for the youth of our clients. Serving a client is not a single transaction, but instead an ongoing relationship with a case worker to guide individuals and families towards self-reliance.

If you would like to join our efforts to bring hope & dignity to those living in poverty... there are many ways to become involved. https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/about-us/ ... and click on "Get Involved" to Donate or to Volunteer! Hope to meet you soon!

Samaritan House is a wonderful organization that has helped over 29,000 individuals in San Mateo County in the past year alone by providing food, clothing, medical care, and housing. Each week over 40 new individuals who have never needed assistance join the food program. I can't say enough about the impact Samaritan House has had over the years. I'm incredibly honored to be involved.

San Mateo County is one of the most expensive places to live in all of California. Every board meeting opens with a client story shared which really brings home the real people being helped. The Free Clinics, housing shelters, food and children's programs all make a meaningful difference to thousands of individuals and families, and I am very grateful for this organization and the good it does!

Samaritan House is an amazing not for profit organization that brings together so many aspects of support that we need to fight poverty - food, shelter, medical needs, education, children support, etc. Now Samaritan House is piloting a new program to empower single mothers towards financial independence which is phenomenal. Great job, Samaritan House, so proud to support this organization!

Samaritan House has long been dedicated and committed to helping local communities on many different important fronts, including food, clothing and healthcare. It’s stepped up its operations in various ways, especially since the pandemic, to address increased food insecurity and other challenges.

Samaritan House is an amazing organization that has been fighting poverty for 50 years. It serves our community in so many ways, such as providing housing and shelter, food services, free health clinics, worker resource center, case management, financial empowerment, school and holiday programs, and so much more. I am so grateful for and proud of this institution that has helped so many families in San Mateo County!

Samaritan House supports our community in a myriad of ways. Our medical clinics serve patients who have nowhere else to go and often would otherwise end up in emergency rooms and/or hospitalized.

I have been a volunteer at Samaritan house for over 10 years. I work as a nurse in the Redwood City clinic. I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and professionalism of the staff and volunteers to this very special community.

I've worked with Samaritan House for years and continue to be impressed by the proactive and empathetic manner in which they engage with the community. In the toughest of circumstances the team of employees and volunteers rises to the occasion, helping the people of San Mateo community most in need with housing, medical, and financial supports. Samaritan House has a strong presence and is a leader in the San Mateo County community.

As a Samaritan House board member, I can confidently say that Samaritan House is the gold standard in fighting poverty and lifting lives in San Mateo County. Samaritan House provides a host of safety net services including food, medical and mental health support, shelter and other assistance with housing needs, financial counseling, clothing, case management, and community programs for children including the annual backpack distribution and holiday giving events. This past year, the Samaritan House served 29,000 clients, including over 13,000 families, doubling our impact since 2019. We've provided 8,800 medical and dental visits, including 1,400 mental healthcare appointments. This summer the renovated San Mateo Clinic was reopened adding further capacity for medical, vision, dental care, and mental health care, while expanding our incredible food pharmacy program and adding additional nutritional classes, supporting the important principle that nutritious food is medicine! We've distributed enough food to make over 4.9 million meals! We've housed 810 individuals safely across three shelters in San Mateo County, totaling 69,000 nights of safe and warm sleep. Every service offered by the Samaritan House is delivered thoughtfully by dedicated staff and volunteers with the highest attention to quality, dignity and respect for our clients. I am honored to be a board member, donor and volunteer for this impactful organization.

Samaritan House does great work! I am proud to be on the board of the largest anti-poverty non-profit in San Mateo County.

I've been involved with Samaritan House for many years--first as a hands-on volunteer especially around school drives and the Holiday program, then as a financial supporter, and finally as a past and current Board member. Samaritan House is an essential part of life for so many who are struggling to live on the SF Peninsula providing a variety of safety net services including food, medical support, and assistance with housing needs--and so much more--counseling and emotional support as well as case management--all done with legions of volunteers and a great staff and visionary and "boots on the ground" leadership to "fight poverty and lift lives." Donations are essential to Samaritan House's continuing to provide support to so many of our neighbors in need with more than 90% of every dollar donated going directly into serving over 30,000 individuals each year.

Samaritan House has such a meaningful, profound and positive impact on our community.

I've had the pleasure of volunteering with some of the most incredible people. Everyone has a strong passion for helping our neighbors in the community. I'm extremely proud and grateful to be part of a such an amazing organization.

Samaritan House of San Mateo County is a beacon of hope and compassion for our community. Their unwavering commitment to providing critical services such as primary and specialty medical care, dental, vision, and mental health services is truly remarkable. The staff and volunteers at Samaritan House go above and beyond to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, receives the care they need. Their holistic approach not only addresses physical health but also supports the mental well-being of individuals and families.

What makes Samaritan House stand out is the deep sense of humanity that underpins everything they do. They treat each person with dignity and respect, creating a safe and welcoming environment for those in need. The volunteers are the heart of this organization, selflessly giving their time and expertise to make a difference in the lives of others.

Samaritan House's impact on the community is immeasurable, and their work helps bridge gaps in healthcare access for many who would otherwise go without. They are truly a lifeline for San Mateo County, providing not just medical services, but also hope, care, and a sense of belonging. I am profoundly grateful for their presence in our community.

I am a volunteer at Samaritan House’s kitchen and pantry. I love volunteering here because I see the quality of meals they prepare for their clients. I’ve portioned and packed meals, washed, cut or chopped vegetables, wrapped snacks, packed vegetables and fruits boxes for donation, or whatever help is needed of me.

SH is a very well run nonprofit and they have many programs that they run simultaneously. Kitchen and pantry are well stocked and organized and are kept clean and sanitized. SH shows appreciation for their staff, and also for the many volunteers who help them. I’m happy to show up for my shift as I am joined by many jolly and dedicated volunteers.

I have volunteered in Ruby's kitchen the last three years off and on and continue to be impressed with how clean everything is, how well run it is, and how delicious the food looks and smells to the point that I always wish I could be one of the lucky people to receive a meal!

Samaritan House is a community organization that helps people that fall below the poverty line get help with kindness, care and dignity. It's volunteer driven, and many of the contributions are also 'in kind' (as in donations of food, toiletries, clothing). Monetary donations are always welcome and needed to support the fabulous staff that make sure all things run smoothly. I've personally served in a volunteer capacity off and on for over 26 years and you will find many long term supporters of this organization in San Mateo County because the sense of positivity and joy that comes from giving both time and treasure.

Samaritan house has provided so many people with hot meals. The people delivering the meals really get to know there clients and take extra care to provide food and to engage and interact with each person during the delivery process.

The kitchen works very hard to supply large quantities of hot meals that are healthy and appealing for clients.

Even though the process of preparing and processing large amounts of meals in a limited amount of time is labor intensive, extra care is taken to make meals for people with dietary restrictions such as vegetarians, low sugar, no beans, and a variety of other specialized meals for a small handful of clients with various dietary needs. They work hard to provide access to everyone in need of food.

Many staff and employees work long hours to ensure that meals will be provided to everyone in need everyday of the week including holidays. Their dedication to supporting families and others in need is always a priority and sometimes requires extraordinary measures by individuals working there to make this happen.

Samaritan House is a place where people work together to make a difference in the community, to support people in need of help who have no other resources available to help them improve there situation and to provide food, medical care and other needs in the meantime.

I have volunteered at the food kitchen for a couple years now. All the kitchen staff are amazing - positive attitude and friendly. They really show their appreciation for volunteers every day. Ruby leads the kitchen with amazing patience, outstanding cooking and absolute professionalism. She is a treasure. So many others are incredible - Daniel, Renee, Luis and everyone there. The volunteers are also very inclusive and friendly as well.

The office staff are incredible too. Helpful, grateful and very professional. Jenny and the rest of the staff are amazing.

Helping people through Samaritan House feels good as well as rewarding. So many people are served in some way or the other. Wonderful organization with a positive and can-do attitude.

Samaritan House is well organized and they provide a much needed service. As a volunteer, its been very rewarding helping out and serving meals.

I appreciate how the staff and "regulars" at the Pacific Blvd Kitchen care of one another and work to make new volunteers feel welcome. My time is used efficiently and I am trusted to contribute without being micromanaged.

It is great to see how much the chefs care. One chef said he wouldn't serve clients a meal he wouldn't serve his family and another chef exhorts volunteers to prepare meals in aesthetically-pleasing ways because most of us, "Eat with our eyes first." Finally, it is impressive how the chefs manage to cook delicious meals given how highly-variable their collection of ingredients. Respect!

I have been volunteering at Samaritan House for a year and a half now. I started with one day a week but I found it was so rewarding to be working with such wonderful employees and volunteers that I am now working two days a week and am thinking of adding another! Samaritan House is such a meaningful and impactful organization in our county. I'm very proud to be a part of their team, both as a volunteer and as a donor.

I am a volunteer at Samaritan House. I support the kitchen/pantry and as a meal delivery driver and cannot say enough how rewarding this opportunity has been. The crew at the panty and kitchen are so kind and welcoming to newcomers helping everyone feel the value of thier contribution whether it be a few hours or for some, years. Whether its chopping chicken, cleaning veggies or sorting assorted produce, its like hanging out with friends making quick work of whatever needs to get done. I also love being able to serve our community at thier door deliverying hot meals to seniors and other community members. Folks are so grateful! I am so thankful we have the support of Samaritan House in our community.

I started volunteering with Samaritan House in their Kids Closet a dozen years ago with my daughters when they were in middle and high school. We would sort the donated items to ensure that the children who received them would feel proud to wear them. We loved doing this volunteer activity together! They're long out of the house, but I still volunteer there, and continue to love it as much now as ever! I feel joy and satisfaction when I see the parents choose these clothes for their children. They express their gratitude for this service each time they come in. The smiles are priceless! This is only one of the multitude of services Samaritan House provides to make a huge difference to benefit any age within our community.

Samaritan Hiuse ensures our neighbors may live their lives with dignity.
I support the Samaritan House brocade I care about my neighbors and my community.

I volunteer for meal delivery service, and see first hand how many people in need Samaritan House helps in San Mateo county. Helping others is how we keep making the world better for our friends and family.

I've known about Samaritan House for years and seen their good work throughout the community especially with their highly visible and impactful annual backpack drive.
About seven months ago my husband, son and I started volunteering to deliver weekly meals to homebound and food insecure people in our community. Watching the large number of volunteers come together to create and package these meals and then deliver them is so impressive! Getting to hear the first hand thanks and appreciation when the food is delivered i heartwarming. And a constant reminder of how much this group is needed and beloved by our community.

Fabulous organization. I have been a volunteer and donor for many years and this organization helps so many families in San Mateo County with so many issues such as health care, food insecurities, school supplies and many more. I am always happy to support the Samaritan house.
Paola Lancellotti
Volunteer and donor since 2015

My wife and I are volunteers at Samaritan House. We pickup donated groceries from local stores and deliver meals to those in need. During the past year we found Samaritan House to be well organized and very competent. They are doing what they claim with a very friendly group of volunteers and staff. We wholeheartedly support this organization.

1st time volunteering and didn’t know what to expect it was an amazing and humbling experience.
I walked away on my first day with a warm feeling of caring and wanting to be a part of it all. Ruby is in charge of all aspects and is so appreciative and excellent in keeping everything moving along with a smile on her face.
Being a part of this and seeing how much work goes into preparing hot meals, chopping vegetable, wrapping desserts, packing, counting and rolling racks out daily is an eye opening experience that makes you feel grateful that you can help in anyway.

Carol P.

My congregation supports Samaritan House which prompted me to get involved. I volunteer weekly in the kitchen. The staff is amazing! They organize volunteers to prepare nutritious, appealing box meals for people in nursing homes, senior centers, and group homes which contract with Samaritan House. Under the supervision of the skilled staff, volunteers chop, peel, cook and arrange a variety of fresh, donated and purchased ingredients to prepare a different menu each day. The end goal is to make each meal appealing and healthy for the recipient. The love and care that goes into the meals is amazing; this is a ministry, not an assembly line! I am so happy that I decided to volunteer at Samaritan House.

I began volunteering at Samaritan House this year. I work in the Kids Closet, where families can come in and shop for clothing items for each child. They are so grateful for this, and they can in each month. They give groceries to families in need. They also prepare meals for delivery to seniors in San Mateo who can’t get out. Their programs really help people in need.

This organization offers so much to the clients. Besides being a basic food bank they offer hot meals delivered for those who can't get out, quality clothes for clients' children, medical and dental clinics and holiday toy drives.
All of the employees I have worked with are dedicated and very committed to helping others in the community.

I volunteer as a tax preparer, distributing food, and meal delivery for them. I have been doing so since Covid started.

I am very impressed with the scale and operation efficiency provided by Samaritan House. I have been enrolled in 'Mobile Meal Delivery' to deliver food to the elders/needy and I have to say I am impressed with their operation capability/scalability. The smiles I see on the older and needy groups are priceless and I am glad that Smaaritan House is doing a good job at it. I was also asked to help providing Mandarin translations for the Food Bank and I must say I feel very happy that I can do that to help the Chinese community.

I have two volunteer roles at Samaritan House. A weekly Mobile Meals delivery driver and a Financial Empowerment Coach.

Ruby's kitchen produces hundreds of nutritious meals every day, my weekly route delivers 25 to the elderly and vulnerable in the community. When I show up to pickup there is always a line of cars picking up their free 'Pantry boxes' as all residents of San Mateo County are allowed two boxes of fresh groceries each month. The mobile meals are always packed and ready to go and the staff are always happy to help each delivery driver to get loaded and on their way as quickly as possible.

The Financial Empowerment Coaching program is again free to all San Mateo County residents and offers 3 separate programs with 'The Road To Tomorrow' - First Step, Better Tomorrow & General Coaching. After 6 months of excellent training I have been working with various clients on all of these programs as well as meeting with the small team of financial coaches on a regular basis.

I have seen Samaritan House provide helpful training on personal finance including banking, credit, debt elimination and budgeting. I have seen Client Services provide rental assistance to keep clients in their own homes, help pay credit cards debits related to Covid and pay cash incentives to clients for completing training including online games and webinars.

Samaritan House serves our community by providing food, clothing, medical guidance and housing assistance. Volunteers come from many different places ( faith based, community groups, and individuals who want to help) all over San Mateo county. The staff communicates the goals and visions of the organization. as well as how we volunteers can help, with the understanding that many skill sets are needed to make the organization thrive and meet our clients needs. I know my volunteer work and donations to Samaritan House improve the San Mateo County community.

I started volunteering with the Samaritan House a few weeks ago and it was one of the best choices I ever made. The warmth of people running this organization and the long time volunteers who all care so deeply about their community make this an incredible place to volunteer and be a part of. The kitchen is really organized and runs so so smoothly (I have zero cooking skills but there is a lot to do that does not require cooking) You will immediately be put to work (there are multiple options on ways to help- in fact I have not had to do the same task twice!). I felt like my shift went by really quickly.

This organization is amazing in the number of people it serves, as well as its incredible leveraging of volunteers to help serve the community in need.

I am a volunteer in several areas, including Ruby's Kitchen. Every meal we pack says, "With love from Ruby's Kitchen." Samaratin House has deep roots in our county. It has an amazing array of services. Day in and day out, Samaritan House meets the needs of thousands and I am really proud to be a part of the organization and its mission.

I work as a volunteer at Samaritan House in San Mateo and I can't say enough about the wonderful people who work, volunteer and donate at Samaritan House. Everyone gives 100% of themselves to help those in need and make people feel welcome and not embarrassed about accepting help. I am very proud of my relationship with them.

As a volunteer in the Samaritan House kitchen, I see the work and care that go into providing greater than 1000 meals/day to those in need. I am also able to observe the care and respect the staff provide to those in need of any of the services provided by Samaritan House. It truly is an incredible organization providing a safety net to those in need.

For the past three years I have volunteered once a week at Samaritan House therefore I know from first hand experience of the incredible work the organization does for the residents of San Mateo County. There is so much food insecurity locally as evidenced by the large number of vehicles who drive through its parking lot to pick up fresh food (and non-perishables). People who seek this food all seem to be incredibly grateful that Samaritan House exists, and fills a vitally important need for their families.

My daughter had volunteered at Samaritan House when she was home from college during the summer. She really enjoyed her service there. The staff was very efficient at getting the tasks done. And the staff was very compassionate, caring and concerned about serving the community and in seeing that people's needs are met in a timely manner.

Samaritan House has multi-dimensional approach to helping people in San Mateo County.
They approach the needs of housing, food, and clothing for our neighbors on a local level, which makes them extremely effective.
They tirelessly campaign for donations of money and items that make. a significant difference for the people who have needs.
I have volunteered for them for several years and see upclose the dedicated work of staff and volunteers and genuine gratitude of our clients as they receive services.
This is a most worthy community nonprofit that is in the neighborhood for the neighbors!

I have been a volunteer at the Samaritan House for a few years and it is certainly a positive, viable organization that genuinely brings change to the community. There are many other volunteers and helpers who are dedicated to what they do. In addition, the produce and products distributed are quality and sent out with care. It is a good place to volunteer at over breaks or when you feel like giving back to the community.

When I moved to the Bay Area from Germany end of 2019 I came "just in time for the pandemic". When I found an article in Nextdoor about Samaritan House, asking for donations, I went to their website. I found a lot of information that impressed me and also found needs for drivers in food delivery. 

Since I had a lot of time and an empty car, I applied for it.

I startet to help from time to time at a family food harvest and as a sub for food deliveries. I got into closer contact with Samaritan House ...and thats how my story begun.

Meanwhile I'm volunteering once a week in one of the Free clinics and have my own food delivery tour since two and a half years.

Not only that I found wonderful people there who make me feel being "part of the family". I'm also impressed how many voluteers are engaged...and am proud being one of them. I see how grateful costumers and patients are about the support that Samaritan House is providing for them.

I'm also proud telling my friends in Germany about Samaritan House. They are surprised (as much as I was at the beginning)  what a non-profit organization such as Samaritan is doing to help lifting poverty and supporting families in their struggle for a dignified life.

Volunteering at Samaritan House not only gives me the feeling that I can help, but also has enriched my life a lot!

Thank you Samaritan House!

I've been a volunteer, board member, employee and now back to volunteer for the last 30 years and in each role was overwhelmed by the dedication I witnessed from every position I've been in. Samaritan House is he premier agency for those in need in SM County.......so very proud to be part of this beautiful family.

As a volunteer with Samaritan House, I can see that this non-profit delivers! Literally! Bags and boxes of food are delivered to house-bound customers every day, and others receive food through the drive-up and through clinics. There's a dedicated group of hard-working volunteers backing up the employees, and it's a friendly place to work. Kudos!

I volunteer as a meal delivery driver, and I am amazed at the amount of food Ruby's Kitchen distributes to the community.

What a wonderful organization. It provides so many opportunities to people who need a variety of needs.

The staff is outstanding. Ruby, manager of the Pantry, is always positive and shares love in everything she does.

Samaritan House is a CORE Safety Net services organization in our county and beyond. As a team player, Samaritan House works with other local non-profit organizations to coordinate care and services for its clients - low income families in the county. SH covers everything an individual needs to have a fair shot at a productive and successful life. Including medical and dental services, food (including a food pharmacy), clothing for children (including Halloween costumes and backpacks), housing assistance, job assistance and financial literacy. Samaritan House is Fighting Poverty and Lifting Lives!

I have been volunteering at Samaritan House for 2-1/2 years and I continue to be impressed with the efficiency, cleanliness and energy in the kitchen every time I am there. Ruby, the kitchen matriarch, runs a tight ship and is such a pleasure to be around. Our community would not be the same without Samaritan House!

As an occasional volunteer with outdoor pantry, I love the family environment and the spirit of caring for one another at Samaritan House. Everyone wants to help, everyone is grateful, and the crew that manages us is incredibly organized and kind.

I have been involved with Samaritan House as a donor for over 20 years and as a Director for the past 5 years. It is an incredibly effective organization with an extraordinarily strong professional staff. I have seen Samaritan House's positive impact on the people who need its assistance. It truly improves peoples lives by providing a helping hand so they can work through challenges. I'm very proud to be associated with Samaritan House and encourage everyone to get to know and support the organization. Thank you

I have been a volunteer at Samaritan House for 2.5 years. During that time, I've been impressed at how well run they are--constantly innovating to find more efficient ways to serve those who need it most. They provide nutritious meals, groceries, and other vital services for the many people in our community who are struggling. The Samaritan House team is hardworking, dedicated and resourceful. I highly recommend them both as a worthy recipient of your donations and also as a fulfilling place to volunteer.

Serves many people in many ways with a variety of motivated volunteers

I have been volunteering with Samaritan House for two years. I am impressed with the way they are able to take volunteer effort and donated food and put it all together to create hundreds of meals to distribute to people in need all over the county every day. They make sure the portions are large and that everyone gets the meal they need, even those with special diets such as vegetarians. The staff are always appreciative of the volunteers and I look forward to my shift every week.

I deliver hot meals for this non-profit and I have been so pleasantly surprised by how well organized, clean and professional the operation is. They are buttoned up!
They have a wide reach into the community including partnering with other non-profits to serve our community. What would we do without wonderful organizations like Samaritan House!?

I've worked with Samaritan House for over ten years now...volunteering with food distributions, medical services outreach, special holiday programs and even serving on the Board. At every point, it's been easy to see why this is a one-of-kind, successful organization. Samaritan House's mission is clear, its staff are professional and compassionate, and its volunteers are dedicated to helping people with dignity and respect. Samaritan House is an integral part of our community...an organization that stepped up in a critical way during the pandemic. And, they aren't slowing down!

I have been a donor and board member for over 10 years and have had the privilege of seeing this organization in action. They are an irreplaceable resource in San Mateo County and bring hope and dignity to our neighbors in a way that no other organization I know of can match. Their staff is caring and effective, and they mobilize large numbers of volunteers to donate time and energy to their efforts.

We are amazed at the breadth and depth of support that Samaritan House provides to those in need. And, they do it with heart and dignity. Volunteering with this org. has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in the last 3 yrs. Thank you Samaritan House!

I love Samaritan House clinics!! Full of humanitarian and loving staff who lean over backwards to brighten people’s days and provide medical treatment to those without insurance!

I started volunteering at Samaritan House from August and the experience has been very fulfilling to me. The managers kindly instruct every new volunteer to take part in the work and community. The volunteer work there is a variety of tasks that help out the community and keep the volunteers satisfied and engaged as well. A morning shift may include sorting out produce, making lunches, packaging deserts, or serving. During every part of the process, I never feel alone because there are always other volunteers to cooperate with. My time at Samaritan House is very enjoyable as I provide support to others.

I've been volunteering with Samaritan House for about 2 years when demand spiked during the pandemic. The staff are so professional, creating balanced delicious hot meals for hundreds of clients every day. The kitchen is clean and professional, meals are creative and different every day. As a volunteer, I always feel needed and productive - the staff always have something useful for us to do so we feel that we're contributing.

Samaritan House is an excellent charity providing a wide variety of services to the public. The dental clinic is staffed with volunteer doctors. Without them a large number of people would not be able to receive care

Every day Samaritan House provides hundreds of hot meals to people in need on the SF peninsula, as well as providing bags of groceries to hundreds more. During the pandemic, especially at the beginning, when the need expanded so rapidly, Sam House was there, helping. I have seen the unwavering care and commitment and professionalism of the kitchen staff up close, and they are a wonderful, dedicated group. Ditto for the administrative staff that deals with the volunteer program. I cannot give Sam House enough praise. Kudos!

Samaritan House is changing lives every day! The wide array of services they offer are an asset to the community. From helping put food on the table for dinner to outfitting children with a backpack, clothing and back to school supplies, the positive impact this organization makes is widespread.

I have served as a Samaritan House volunteer for 17 years . They provide a wide range of services to residents of San Mateo County including medical clinics, shelters , food and clothing support and counselling . They are always highly organized ,efficient and compassionate. They optimize volunteers' time and volunteering for Samaritan House is always a positive experience

I have been volunteering every Saturday morning with Samaritan House for around 6 months now, and have had by far the most meaningful volunteering experience that I've had with any organization. We prepare and give out hundreds of lunches each weekend, along with bags of essential groceries. All the volunteers and staff at Samaritan House care deeply about the cause, and I've had the privilege of hearing firsthand from the people we serve how they rely on the services Samaritan House provides.

I am so impressed by Samaritan House! They are providing critical services to our community and it is an honor to be a part of their mission!

I've been volunteering here for about seven years and these people are real pros! The employees really care about their clients and volunteering here has been so rewarding. I've worked in client services where I've done everything from staff the front desk to processing paperwork on behalf of clients to reorganizing the school supplies cabinet. My travel schedule has been fairly demanding and Samaritan House has always been extremely flexible with days I come in to volunteer. Big kudos to LaTrice Taylor and Robyn Fischer, who keep client services running like a well-oiled machine!

If you're thinking about finding a great place to volunteer or if you're looking for a worthwhile place to which you would make monetary contributions, Samaritan House is worth your consideration.

Samaritan House is an incredibly well-run nonprofit that provides so many vital services to help fight poverty in San Mateo County. Food pantry, mobile meals, shelters, clothing, rental assistance, job training -- the list of the services they provide goes on and on. I am proud to be both a donor and a volunteer, and know firsthand that they use their donations wisely and put every dollar to good use.

Such a valuable community resource doing critical work to support our County’s most vulnerable. Volunteering feels like joining a hardworking, selfless family.

Amazing Place! This is like a big family! Thanks

The equity issue is intense in the Bay Area right now. Seems to grow every day. Thank goodness for Samaritan House. We've never needed you as much as we do now. A trusted community partner for life!

The work Samaritan House is doing in San Mateo County is inspirational. They are making a big impact in the lives of so many, and have been doing it for 45 years!

Samaritan House ties together the critical services - food, shelter, clothing and healthcare - needed to fight poverty in San Mateo County, while helping individuals and families gain the skills they need to build their own healthy and positive futures. Samaritan House staff respect their clients and welcome them as valuable members of the community. I have been continually impressed with how Samaritan House clients grow in self-confidence and how they use their Samaritan House experience to strengthen their lives and the lives of those around them. Samaritan House changes lives for the better every day and makes our community that much stronger for it.

Samaritan House has been around for at least 45 years! They're a great organization that cares about helping people reach a place of stability.

The importance of the work that the Samaritan House of San Mateo performs cannot be understated. It’s easy to think that being in such an affluent part of the world, the community is somehow shielded from the most fundamental of needs (food, shelter, clothing, medical care, job assistance). In fact it is the tremendous wealth disparity that makes life in Bay Area tenuous for so many. There are countless families one pay check away from missing a car payment, making rent, being able to put food on their table, clothing their children, or having dental work done. Once you fall out, it is virtually impossible to get back in. Samaritan House provides that safety net where people can go at their time of greatest need.

Samaritan House is a very active and progressive nonprofit organization! They pretty much provide all-in-one services for the people in need; job, food, medical help, place to sleep for few nights, training and grooming for landing a job.....you name it!
And all the staffs and volunteers get it done together with great enthusiasm and professional approach. They make sure the limited resources can benefit as many people as possible and the most appropriate assistance they could get.

In a word, Samaritan House shows the world; the best thing can happen to a human being is being able to give and make it happen~~

Staff are quick to help and come with no judgement no matter where you are in life. The unique aspect about Samaritan House is its personalized approach. Whether you are in need of food, shelter, clothing or healthcare, Samaritan House is dedicated to fighting poverty.

Samaritan House is a wonderful resource for everyone in the community. I especially love the Project Wee Care Program where children learn empathy and the importance of giving to others with the ease of donating items at their school site. Our school had a field trip to Samaritan House so children could see how donations of food and clothing are used. I also love the kids closet where we can donate clothes to those in need. Thank you for this amazing resource!

Samaritan House goes above and beyond. They supply great medical care , diabetes education , social services, and even food as medicine for people in need. It is an honor to work with such compassionate and dedicated staff members and providers.

I have been involved with Samaritan House in some form or another for abut 30 years now. SH has been a great asset to our local community. As they have been able to add additional services over the years, they have become a place where people in our community can go for help, anything from food to financial planning. I have loved working with this local non-profit over the years and hope to continue with them for years to come.

I donate to Sam House regularly because of their structure and commitment to the San Mateo and Palo Alto Communities. They serve meals, provide shelter, training, clothes, and rental assistance, and let me not forget the resource center, to their community. They do phenomenal work and have hundreds of committed volunteers.

I only recently (within the last year) became aware of this organization and all that they've done and continue to do in the community. As I'd heard great things about them, and seeing the growing homelessness and desperation around me in San Mateo Co., I began recommending to several struggling neighbors that they check it out. And all have been success stories. I've been blown away from hearing how they're getting the help they need, from food to free medical care. I've even begun thinking of ways that I can help out too, through them. I've started by donating to their Kid's Closet program and hope to be able to volunteer soon!

Members of our organization have had the opportunity to volunteer with Samaritan House for several years in a row now, and each time we come away feeling grateful for the chance to help support them in their efforts. The work they are doing in the community and with their clients is so important and humbling.

It has helped my family out in so many ways from clothing and food when we couldn't afford that time. I also appreciate the assistance when I was looking for a place and they offered to step in to help. Samaritan House not only offers many resources but, the people who work there are genuinely kind and are always serving people like me with a smile. I

This organization does so much for the community. Fun Fundraising events, taking care of the whole community from getting back packs for the children to providing food for the needy. All of those involved should be very proud at the difference they make in their own background ❤️

I ve donated clothes diapers and backpacks for this good organization and this month we're getting ready
to donate Halloween costumes for the kids too.

I am a teacher in the San Mateo Foster City school district. Samaritan House has helped serve many of our families in need. It’s a wonderful organization that provides clothes, food, medical needs, and other services.

What an amazing place. All of the services and goods provided make a real difference in the lives of so many. But the dignity and uplift imparted as well are the true magic of Samaritan House! In thriving Silicon Valley, many forget the economic pressures and difficulties placed on so many. Thankfully, Sam House is here to step in and help. Few charities are as deserving of our support!

Samaritan House is a leader in serving the needs of our community in San Mateo County. Their services including basics like free healthcare, food, case management, and financial empowerment are making a huge difference in the lives of our working poor neighbors.

Samaritan House is an organization with heart. Its leaders, staff and volunteers are all passionate about the mission , the work and the vital role that Samaritan House plays in San Mateo County, at a time when support for our neighbors living in poverty is more needed than ever. I am continually gratified by the response of the community and the difference that Samaritan House makes in the lives of its clients. I am particularly proud of innovative initiatives such as the Food Pantries at our health clinics that have made a tangible, positive impact on our clients.

Fantastic organization run professionally, but still touching people and the community on a personal level.

The Kids' Closet resource is a terrific place for families to outfit their children for healthy and
happy lives. As a volunteer, it is rewarding to manage donations and then see the clothing walk out the door with smiling children and their parents.
This truly is an investment of time, energy, and caring with many rewards.

Samaritan House is an important nonprofit organization, and I really respect and admire the work that they do in our community. It's volunteer-driven, working together to provide food, shelter, healthcare and other services for all our neighbors.

I have been volunteering at Samaritan House Kids Closet for over seven years. Currently, we hand out about 4000 pieces of children's clothing per month. I enjoy seeing the clients' faces light up when they find just the right outfit for their child and it is all free of charge.
It is a privilege for me to be part of the Samaritan House family.

,

Mrs. K’s House Preschool has been working with Samaritan House for over 23 years. They have so many wonderful programs to help people in our communities. Introducing my preschoolers to the WeeCare Program helps young children develop and cultivate empathy and inclusiveness from a very young age. And that’s what this world needs. Preschoolers are indeed able to grasp the concept of empathy. It’s rewarding to see them make those connections.”
- Sarah Kerseg-Halpin, Mrs. K’s Preschool in Foster City

As a small business in San Mateo County with a mission to Make Cider Make a Difference, we support Samaritan House on an annual basis because of their continued dedication to helping neighbors and improving the lives of so many in our county. From a shelter to dental care to increased access to food and clothes, this client-focused non-profit provides resources at every level of need to support those in our cities who need help the most. Through these services, Samaritan House assists its clients in managing the causes of homelessness instead of merely taking care of the symptoms.

Samaritan House does so much to help families in need in our community. A great place to donate and to volunteer time to help in San Mateo County.

Samaritan House is my families 'go-to' for volunteering and financial giving. We are impressed to see the work they do first hand and in many cases immediate. Helping strengthen our community at all stages of life and need - truly a terrific organization.

A wonderful organisation providing essential services and resources for those in need within the San Mateo county.
An amazing place to volunteer, give back and support the local community!

Samaritan House does so much for people living in poverty in San Mateo county. I see the work they do and they are the best at gathering resources and delivering. They do it with compassion and heart.

An amazing organization! They help so many local families in the area.

The people who work here are very friendly and kind. It was my first time donating items and the ladies here were super helpful providing information and informing me of items needed.

Thank you Samaritan House for being there for our communities most vulnerable. I have lived in San Mateo all my life and Samaritan House has always been there. They run a homeless shelter and free medical clinics. They do so much for the community and are highly regarded.

My children and I have donated clothing over the years and are so impressed with the organization and professionalism of everyone at Samaritan House. I see how grateful the clients are when they receive new clothing or food. Samaritan House is a gem in this community!

Samaritan House has been a true miracle for many of my former students and their families. Children were able to receive much needed medical and dental treatment bc of SH. Students were able to get clothes for school and needed supplies! When it was the last week of the month when money was scarce the food pantry filled their empty tummies! For holidays they were able to get a turkey or all dinner fixings! In my 15 years of teaching children and their families I witnessed many, many times when Samaritan House was the only supportive solution and were a blessing to hundreds of families!

I have volunteered with many different organizations over the years, and Samaritan House is the most well-organized and focused of them all. They know their clients and how best to serve them, constantly creating new incentive programs to address the unique needs of this area. They treat their volunteers well and show us we are appreciated. There are volunteer and donation opportunities for nearly every age group and availability, which helps cement the strong bond the community has with Samaritan House.

I am both a donor and a volunteer. I coordinate donations for my club to Samaritan House over the summer collecting school supplies and at the holidays with toys. I really like working with Samaritan House, especially as all of the work and donations stay right in my local community.

I volunteer my time to help Samaritan House and I donate items to them. I belong to a service organization and we love to volunteer for the Samaritan House. They do just great work to help those in the community who need assistance. Everyone at Samaritan House that I have dealt with is always very friendly, caring and giving. I wish I could do more to help them. I believe they truly are a life saver for many people.

Samaritan House raises money and then gives it to the community. Sam House works with other organizations in San Mateo County to make sure those in need get the aid they need to have housing, health care, and a helping hand.

Samaritan House is an amazing asset in our community. It provides desperately needed housing, medical and dental care, social and family support to those most in need. It also provides a way for others to contribute to building our community, one family at a time. I personally have known a handful of families who have benefitted from temporary housing, gifts at the holidays and food when needed. I've also known families who make it a priority to donate their time and money to this organization. It bridges the gaps in our community and lessens the distance between us.

I was once a client and then a volunteer. The assistance and services provided by Samaritan House to San Mateo County residents are beyond amazing. Not only do they provide the basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical assistance to low income residents of the county, but they also think about programs and services that push towards self-sufficiency. Families and individuals know they have somewhere to go and ask for help during times of needs. Samaritan House, you give families hope in times of instability. I have personally experienced how your assistance makes a difference in the lives of those living in poverty. Please know that my mom is forever grateful for everything you did for her and her 3 children. Because of organizations like you and the support of other organizations pushing for affordable housing, we are now able to thrive. Please know that your assistance with rent, food, clothing, and Julio who was our amazing case manager gave us the tools to get our of poverty. My mom is now happily 8 years into her career working with special needs children and her three daughters are either done with undergraduate and doing their masters studies, or about to transfer. Thank you for helping our community!

I've volunteered in their Christmas Adoption (adopt a family and adopt a senior) for four years, and I recently volunteered for the back to school drive. The clients that Samaritan House San Mateo supports are all so thankful for this wonderful and supportive organization. Programs are well-designed, smoothly run, and draw literally hundreds of needy families. I love working with this organization.

Samaritan House is an incredible organization that does great work for those in need in San Mateo County.

I have been collecting donations and volunteering at Samaritan House for close to two decades. It is a pillar of the community in San Mateo, providing countless services for those in need, and doing a wonderful job of involving schools and other community groups in their philosophy: neighbor helping neighbor.

Samaritan House is a wonderful oasis of healthcare for the medically uninsured. I was lucky enough to volunteer there and meet grateful patients, amazing volunteer medical and dental providers, and competent administrative staff!

I am a single mom, and my pay was decreased. Not knowing where to begin looking for help, I called and applied everywhere. ONLY Samaritan House heard me out, and acknowledged my hardship, with kindness and generosity. The food program has saved my daughter and I. The volunteers at the food program are always welcoming and kind, and never once have I felt "less than" by being there. I am eternally grateful

I have been a VOLUNTEER here. Its really a great place. The dental clinic managed by Alex is great. He manages it better than some of the private clinics owned by dentists who make $$. Also I am very thankful to them for letting me take x rays for patients for my X ray certification course, I couldn't have done without them, thanks a lot Dr. Rideau and Alex.

I am a client of The Samaritan House. They have always been there for me when I need help. Lynnette is my case worker and is always willing to help me when I am in need for food. She is very understanding and is very caring for her clients.
The holiday drive during ThanksGiving and Christmas is so helpful for my family. The food we get last for months. I am so thankful to have something like this around to help me and my family when we are in need.

They are all very dedicated and helpful. They are also great part of the community.

Everyone who helps there & is helped by them adds so much to our community!

Samaritan House is a fabulous service for our community. They provide help in so many areas for those who need a boost up. Dr. Hirasuna and her orthodontic team (Orthodontics of San Mateo) just spent a day volunteering our services. We organized and cleaned up a storage area in preparation for the holidays. We sorted and placed Halloween costumes for children of all ages and some for adults on many display racks. We prepared bags of food for distribution. Salad was made and carrots peeled for the meals that are prepared daily in the kitchen. It felt wonderful to be able to help our community

They're great. I remember my family getting food from the Samaritan house years ago. They're very helpful and i think it is an awesome organization. Thank you

As a former board member and current Advisory Council member I can say without hesitation that this organization is very well run. They steward every dollar donated and are strategic in both short term decision making and long term planning. Their professionalism has resulted in a thriving organization that helps thousands of low income people in our community and it's done with great care and respect.

Everyone is so caring & kind and most generous with their time to help others

I have volunteered with this organization for over 10 years. Amazing food bank services, holiday toy drive, and a wide network of resources for those in need in our community. So happy to support Samaritan House and celebrate their work and commitment.

I have had nothing but great experiences working with Samaritan House leadership team to tackle tough local policy issues and address the needs of San Mateo County's most vulnerable residents. I have referred many people to services and received positive feedback about staff and services. Samaritan House is an important partner to local government agencies and the nonprofit landscape, and are constantly looking to create innovative programs and solutions to address the ever-changing needs of the community.

Best place to volunteer because they care about all the people involved. Their clients, their employees, their volunteers, their donors, their partnerships, their everything!
Top notch, best there has been in the Bay Area!

Samaritan House is THE BEST charity in the Bay Area. Their programs often keep Single Parent & Dual Parent families from losing irreplaceble housing in an unforgiving housing market. As a single mother who lost a decent paying job to a permanent work injury, Samaritan House as been there for me when I had nowhere else to turn to keep a roof over the heads of myself and my young boy.

Their Kids Closet provides sorely needed clothing to growing children and teenagers and their My New Shoes program and Backpack giveaways help kids to fit in with their peers in a largely affluent Peninsula public school system.

Some of our neighbors suffer setbacks that are not due to bad choices but sometimes from the actions of others as in my injury or simply to life's random bad luck. Samaritan House is there for many who do not have family or friends to count on when support is needed. This is all done with warmth, kindness and friendliness allowing their clients to seek help when they need while retaining their dignity in the process. Their work saves lives. ♡♡♡

Samaritan House provides vital services to central San Mateo County. They work closely with families to address the wide variety of issues faced by those in poverty.

What has impressed me is their commitment to the whole individual providing food, shelter, meals, clothing, and much more.

They are an important part of our safety net.