SAFFORD — Safford City Councilman Arnold Lopez said the new Samaritan Home respite and information center for the homeless was developed by “different denominations with the same determination.”
Lopez made his comments during the grand opening of the new facility in Safford, near the intersections of U.S. Highways 70 and 191.
The facility is not a shelter, but rather provides the area’s homeless a chance to get out of the heat or cold, as well as offering showers and laundry. Plus certified counselors will be on hand to help with a number of services.
“We’ll be able to do short-term housing, long-term housing, be able to provide benefits; I picture this as this is going to be the community hub,” said Vaughn Grant with the Gila Valley Ministerial Association.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
The Ministerial Association of 16 different churches and faiths has been the driving force behind the facility, with support from all the area governments. Following the request of Supervisor Paul David, Graham County dedicated $250,000 of its American Rescue Plan Act funds to renovate the building. Meanwhile Safford, Thatcher and Pima will pay for the facility’s utility services, with Safford and Thatcher paying 42.5 percent each, and Pima paying 15 percent.
In addition Safford and Thatcher will provide $5,000 each in start-up funding, while Pima will contribute $750.
During a presentation before the Thatcher Town Council in August, Grant said the organization will be financially self-sufficient in 2024, thanks to the donation of the property, the support from the local governments and the Community Partnership of Southern Arizona paying 75 percent of salaries, as well as other grants and state funding opportunities.
And Samaritan Home has received its 501(3)(c) nonprofit status, qualifying it for charitable contributions.
“I feel like this is the first place that they can come, and we can direct them into the areas that will meet their needs,” said Sherry Brady with the Ministerial Association.
