How it all started

Good Samaritan began in 1990 as an outreach service for local families. We had a handful of volunteers, the blessings of the local churches, and the use of the old fire hall. We were serving about 30 families per month.

In 1993 our ministry moved to what was the old Meat Block. The building gave us more space. We were able to increase the size of our resale shop and had the ability to serve more families. Our staff of volunteers grew to about 15. We were serving about 70 families per month.

In 1998 we were told of the decision to demolish the Meat Block. Many decisions needed to be made. In order for the ministry to continue it was necessary to form a board of directors. The process of becoming incorporated began. We applied for 501(c)(3) status as a charitable organization, and Good Samaritan of Antrim County was official. A search began for a new building. In 1999 the ministry moved to our current location.

As we continued to grow, discussions about expanding our services beyond a resale shop and food pantry began. We envisioned a mininstry helping single moms and their babies and young pregnant women. The Moms & Tots ministry began in 2001.

As our ministry evolved it was time to change our name to reflect the direction of the ministry. We became Good Samaritan Family Services. During the next couple of years the number of families we served doubled! We needed a bigger building. The board decided to put an addition on our existing building. Ground breaking began in 2003. Board members left to right: Bill Broadwick, Gene Drenth, Mary Peterson, Max Bolser, Paul Hizelberger, and Jerry Troyer.

With the help of grants, local churches, donations, and many volunteers the expansion was completed in 2004.

Our most recent ministry is Samaritan's Hands.