Santa Claus Comes to Good Samaritan Shelter

Homelessness is a tragic situation for millions of Americans. Sure, it’s good that it gets a lot of exposure during the holidays; however, it’s a year-round issue that deserves more than seasonal “make-me-feel-good” attention.

One local group continues to do its best to shed light on this very important matter.

It was Christmas in July for the adult male residents at Good Samaritan Shelter in Phoenixville. The residents were treated to the sounds of holiday music, gift bags and plenty of food on Monday, July 25.

“Our Christmas in July event aims to spread joy to our program residents,” said shelter Board Member Keith Misner. “Our goal is to give the residents a little boost of encouragement during this time in their lives.”

Santa once again stayed busy at work by making another pit stop Tuesday at the new Good Samaritan Ephrata program servicing women and children.

Shelter officials set up a fundraising campaign specifically for the two-day event. Those funds were used to purchase gift cards for the adult residents along with age-appropriate gifts for the children residing in the Ephrata facility.

Good Samaritan Shelter, which opened in June 2002, provides safe, comfortable housing for homeless men in the greater Phoenixville area. Good Samaritan also collaborates with local health and social service agencies to help guests regain stability in their lives and address the issues surrounding their homelessness.

The shelter accomplishes its goal of assisting guests by providing several programs including computer training, résumé writing, smoking cessation, budgeting and financial planning.

“It has been truly amazing to see how far we have come,” said Tim Barr, the shelter’s director of resident services.

Barr has been involved with the shelter since its inception, first serving as a board member.

“One of the homes we use was actually my grandparent’s house,” Barr explained. “Who would have ever thought this home would be used to help house those who don’t have a place to live?”

”The joy of Christmas shouldn’t just be reserved for December, especially for people experiencing homelessness,” says Misner. “During Christmastime, residents have the stress of wondering what to get people. That’s why we wanted to do something different.”  

Good Samaritan is committed to having a long lasting impact on its residents.

“It is a real blessing to help these men,” said Barr. “When you see people move on and get jobs it’s a great thing.”

“Growing up in the suburbs, you formed your own opinion on homelessness, but I can tell you these guys’ stories are incredible. These men are just like you and me who lost their businesses or jobs because of the economy or made bad choices,” Misner said. “I’m just happy I can serve in some way.”

Good Samaritan continues to change the lives of its residents by walking with them during their journey and that is something program officials believe is always worth talking about, in season or out. 

Good Samaritan Shelter is located at 141 E. High St. in Phoenixville.