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. Cora Clemons Emerging Young Samaritan Award. Every year, we seek to recognize a young person in our county who is following in the footsteps of our founder.

We are proud to announce that this year’s winner of the Dr. Cora Clemons Emerging Young Samaritan Award is Ethan Hua. Ethan is a local high schooler who launched his own nonprofit, the H.O.P.E. Uniforms Program. This program provided all students who needed a uniform access to one, free of charge. He has partnered with local schools and organizations, including Samaritan House’s Kids Closet, to make his vision a reality.

Young adults like Ethan are the future of our community. Congratulations to him and his community who make this work possible.