A Message from Nate
Seeing the impact of our work, right in our own neighborhood.
Seldom can we see the problem that's been averted in our lives, or in our community. We are all aware of the challenges and difficulties faced, but when do we see the crisis prevented? The eviction avoided? Good Samaritan Services works to stem the tide of homelessness, and ward off the traumatic impact of families being evicted right in the neighborhoods where we live. By offering rent support, mentoring and other permanent housing services, we are working on multiple fronts: helping families at risk of becoming homeless remain safe in their homes, providing security deposits and graduated rental support to help families move in to more affordable housing, and mentorship and case management to insure that they can continue to sustain their permanent homes. This work is critical but when it is most successful it is work that goes unseen.To be sure that we have the resources to keep our Permanent Housing Service thriving, we are planning to launch "It's Good to Be Home." By pledging to give monthly the equivalent of perhaps a cup of coffee or a daily newspaper, participants will have an impact, helping families to steer clear of eviction and the traumatic impact of homelessness, right in their own neighborhood.
Over the years we have seen so often how the care of neighbors makes a difference in the lives of the people we serve. I am hoping "It's Good to Be Home" will allow an increasing number of our supporters make the statement that they too can see the real impact of our work, right in their own neighborhood. With a grateful heart, | | Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties "A rose by any other name surely smells as sweet."
"I always gave my support to Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties. What can I do to be sure that work continues?" The work we do remains the same, but now with a new name.
Please be sure to endorse your check to Good Samaritan Services.
To designate your gift, you can write "Permanent Housing Services" or "Bridge of Hope at Good Samaritan Services" In the memo line.
| | On The Road To Success!
Shantyra's story is one for the books! Since entering our Permanent Housing Services program four months ago, she was offered an apartment with a private property owner. This new property was a 20 minute commute from her job, and she didn't have a vehicle, but she took the risk, accepted the apartment, and determined to secure a vehicle.
She applied for a loan through our Microloan program, and thanks to our friends at Ephrata National Bank, she received the funds to put towards a vehicle. She was also connected to a local program called Wheels to Work. A car had become available that very day, and she was bumped to the top of the list to receive it!
A few days later, Shantyra was able to sign the lease to her own apartment, and went directly from there to a meeting to transfer the donated car into her name – and she drove away with it that day!
She stood in amazement at God's perfect timing, how clearly He showed His love and care for her and her baby.
We are so happy for Shantyra! And happy too to be witness to seeing the path opening before her. | |  | Help us welcome Keith Fritz to the GSS family!
Keith (pictured right) is our Operations Manager. In his role he is responsible for managing our 12 properties, and he will be managing our IT and HR departments as well.
Keith and his wife live in Berwyn and are members of Berwyn United Methodist Church. They have 3 college-aged daughters.
Keith has 27 years of experience in management and operations and served in the Air Force for 6 years. Keith states, "I am excited about using the experiences that I've gained through my faith, business career and life to serve people in need through Good Samaritan Services." | | | | We are so excited to introduce our new Events Manager, Christine!
Christine Stoltzfus is a graduate of Millersville University with a Bachelors degree in Political Affairs and a minor in Sociology.
Christine and her husband, Jeremy, live in Denver with the 2 children, Luke (6 years) and Lucy (17 months), and their 2 dogs, Rosie and Utley. They are expecting their 3rd child in October.
In her spare time, Christine enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, and going to baseball games with her husband. | | | | Connect with us on Social Media so you do not miss any updates: | | Important information about your Legacy Gift
Across the years, friends of Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties, and friends of Good Samaritan Shelter have graciously identified these organizations through a variety of financial instruments including charitable gift annuities, charitable trusts and other bequests.
Now that our two organizations are one, our boards have merged, and our name has changed; but we hope that you recognize that our mission and services remain the same!
In order to assure that our work continues, and to assure that your support for our mission reaches long into the future, we respectfully request that you advise your attorney or account manager to stipulate that your legacy gift be directed to Good Samaritan Services. Thank you! | | Grab your friends, family, or colleagues to create a team, or come just to witness the excitement as teams put on their racing caps!
This super fun, family-friendly event will raise funds and awareness for all the great work accomplished by three Phoenixville non-profits that provide shelter for the homeless. Whether you're racing or spectating, join us on November 3rd to support those who work tirelessly to make sure that no one is without a bed to sleep in.
You can visit the website to sign up to participate or volunteer.
Proceeds benefit: Ann's Heart, Good Samaritan Services, and The House. | | | | | Everyone in Lancaster County knows that this year, November 16 is the date for Extraordinary Give. We hope that you will mark your calendar and remember Good Samaritan Services on this day. If you have a heart to help address the issue of homelessness and permanent housing in our community, consider supporting GSS. Good Samaritan Services works across the county to provide 75 women and children emergency shelter, transitional and permanent housing support every day. We do extraordinary work, and we hope you will remember us, November 16 with the Extraordinary Give.
Look for more details about our ExtraGive plans coming soon on our Facebook page.
| | It's almost Fall, which means our annual Taste of Phoenixville event is right around the corner!
Save the date now, and make plans to attend this night full of delicious food, community, and support Good Sam, all at the same time.
| | | | Women's Shelter PO Box 756 Ephrata, Pennsylvania 17522 T 717-733-3395 F 610-917-9815
Chester Co. Permanent Housing Services 1516 Olive Street Coatesville, Pennsylvania 19320 T 610-380-1360 | | | | Men's Shelter 141 E. High Street, PO Box 551 Phoenixville, Pennsylvania 19460 T 610-933-9305 F 610-917-9815
Lancaster Co. Permanent Housing Services 616 N. Lime St. Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17602 T 717-394-7707 | | | | | | | | |
