Our 50th year has already been one to remember. While our team of staff and volunteers serve record numbers of clients through our pantry each day, our community of dedicated supporters – like you! – stepped up to make this year’s Cheers to 50 Years gala the most successful in our history. In just one...

Our backpack drive is here! Every year, Samaritan House provides backpacks filled with age-appropriate supplies to low-income children and teens in San Mateo County. Together, with your support, we’re able to send kids back to school, ready for a year of learning and success. Donations of any size are fully tax-deductible and provide an opportunity...

In 1974, Dr. Cora Clemons, a social worker, public schools advocate, and a true innovator, started a food distribution out of her home in North Central San Mateo. From that act of innovation and kindness, Samaritan House was born. To honor her legacy of making change in San Mateo County, Samaritan House created the Dr....

Our 50th anniversary gala, Cheers to 50 Years, was a huge success and it’s all thanks to our community! Together, we raised over a million dollars to support Samaritan House programs and celebrate 50 years of doing good in San Mateo County. We are so grateful for your support. Whether you donated, volunteered, or cheered...

This year, Samaritan House will complete tax returns virtually. There will be no in-person appointments. Tax returns will be completed virtually using the Get Your Refund platform. This platform was designed in partnership with two local nonprofit organizations – Code for America and United Way Bay Area. This is a safe and secure way to...

Every family deserves to share in the joy of the season without having to choose between holiday cheer and a warm meal or safe place to sleep. Dignity goes beyond the essentials, and for many individuals and families struggling, this jolly season can often be a difficult time. Join your neighbors during this special time...

Our backpack drive is here! Every year, Samaritan House provides more than 2,500 low-income children and teens in San Mateo County with new backpacks and school supplies. Together, with your support, we’re able to send kids back to school, ready for a year of learning and success. Donations of any size are fully tax-deductible and...

We are so excited to announce that Laura Bent is the new CEO of Samaritan House! Laura has served as Samaritan House’s chief operating officer since 2011, and has more than 20 years of executive leadership experience in the non-profit human services industry. She is replacing Bart Charlow, who announced his retirement in late 2022...

Kids Closet is now open in a new space adjacent to our headquarters on Pacific Blvd. Client families are able to share their preferences ahead of their appointment and receive a personalized bundle of clothing. Using a new drive-through format, Kids Closet volunteers are able to provide the same excellent service to client families while...