Samaritans Together programs.
Residents of Henry County can find help from Samaritans Together. The non-profit will support those that are less fortunate in a limited number of situations, and they offer everything from food, shelter, and clothing to emergency financial aid. Other support will help people access job placement or training services, as these can help individuals in McDonough Georgia break the cycle of poverty.
After going through an interview with a Family Development Specialist, some qualified low income families may receive financial help from emergency programs. This is only offered at most once per year. These will offer everything from cash grants for certain housing costs (such as rent or heating bills) to transportation and more.
The financial assistance is available on a limited basis for income qualified clients who are facing unexpected needs or special hardships. While Samaritans Together may offer their own funds or loans, they may also refer clients to other options such as such as government aid for utilities, transportation and health or medical expenses. A combination of staff and volunteers from Samaritans Together work to connect struggling families to resources.
When applying for financial aid, intake workers will review the applicants income and spending habits. They will help clients identify additional social services for which they may qualify. If funds are available from Samaritans Together, and if the person is eligible, then a more an in-depth interview will be set up. Based on the results of this process, money may be provided for living expenses. It will be provided directly to the landlord or energy provider, and not to the applicant themselves.
If Samaritans Together does not have resources, or if someone is not qualified, staff members will direct people to other forms of support. As the staff have information on other charities and non-profits in the Henry County region, or the agency can even direct clients to benefits such as LIHEAP or SNAP food stamps.
Homeless as well as eviction prevention is addressed in the form of Emergency Shelter, motel vouchers, or short term rental assistance. These solutions are available on a limited basis, though shelters tend to be a little more common. When it comes to rent help, the family needs to have a pay or quit / eviction notice. As with any requests, an appointment with a Family Development Specialist is needed.
Basic needs are available from a clothing bank and food pantry, based on individual needs. The centers will provide free groceries or low cost, gently seasonal clothing for men, seniors, women and children. All of the clothing and food items passed out in Henry County come from community donations or fund raisers. Samaritans Together will do their best to offer high-quality, seasonal clothing throughout the year.
Samaritans Together pantry can have emergency food, and this is available to income eligible Henry County residents. The package given out by volunteers is meant only as a supplement and provides enough groceries for a few days. So there are limitations in place.
However, it will be healthy, as Samaritans Together attempts to provide food from the major food groups so that each package is nutritionally balanced. With that being said, the exact contents of each package is dependent upon donations, and it can vary throughout the year.
There are also holiday programs. Volunteers from Samaritans Together as well as other local charities help fill the Holiday Food boxes, whether they are Christmas or Thanksgiving meals. There may be turkeys, toppings, gift baskets, and other items passed out.
Case management and job training is available. One example, the Vocational Program, was created to be an approach that offers many opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. All services depend on the skills and needs of the client. Several types of job training and work are available to those that qualify.
Adult Learning and Literacy in Henry County is available from referrals by Samaritans Together staff. There is instruction in math, reading skills, English, GED preparation, ESL classes and citizenship test preparation. Learning occurs in small groups or classrooms, and these help students at any level of learning with improving their skills. Tutors and other staff help keep this service running.
Seniors can get help from Samaritans Together as well. There are many programs in the local Henry county, as noted below.
- Transportation to doctor appointments.
- Hot lunches and meals from congregate meal sites or shelters, as well as nutrition education.
- Information and Assistance in applying for benefits such as Medicare and more.
- Meals on Wheels in McDonough and nearby towns – There may be low cost, hot, nutritious meals delivered to home-bound seniors or the disabled.
The office has limited hours, but can be reached at (678) 565-6526.
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