Operational Plans of Samaritan House
- Currently
The Samaritan House will be operated by volunteers (at least two each shift) during specifically posted hours and days. These volunteers come from local churches and citizens of the Pleasant Valley Community and are trained prior to serving.
Hours of operation are Tuesday 9 a.m. to noon and Thursday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. A minimum of two persons are required for each shift. The volunteers receive the requests, gather information, and screen the applicants. Food is issued on an as needed basis. Bags are prepared and handed out by the volunteers. A personal hygiene packet including a small bar of soap, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste is included in each bag along with a "We care" card telling the recipient who we are and why we do what we do. New Testaments are given to each new client.
In order to avoid misuses of the available food for distribution a system has been established to keep records of those receiving assistance. No one will be given food without this screening procedure.
- Long Range
The plan is to establish a part time position; This person, along with the continued volunteer assistance, will keep the stock current, prepare the bags for distribution and process the screening and paperwork involved. This person will prepare appropriate reports to participating churches, other groups and agencies, and will serve as the PR person to food distributors, churches and the community.
An independent non-profit corporation has been established and a governing Board of Directors is in place. Attorney Amos Workman of the firm of Wyche Burgess Freeman and Parham is assisting with this and other legal matters. The board is comprised of members from the partner churches, Pleasant Valley Community, and surrounding area.
The Samaritan House has received a 501 (c)(3) status from the IRS making it eligible to apply for grants and other charitable donations.