Good Samaritan Haven

Good Samaritan Haven provides shelter, food, and welcome to persons in need. At the heart of Good Samaritan Haven’s mission is recognizing value in every human being. By welcoming our guests open-heartedly, we seek to overcome barriers of race, class, and privilege and build a caring and supportive community together. We began in 1983 when the community organized to plan the first homeless shelter in our region. We served our first guest on June 23, 1986 at our original shelter in Barre City, supported by a team of volunteers for many years. As the homeless crisis has magnified, Good Samaritan Haven has risen to meet the need. Today we employ a staff of 40 people who help provide care 24-7, 7 days a week, across a network of three shelters. Our Emergency Shelter Program offers basic housing opportunities, ranging from low-barrier shelter in winter only, to longer term transitional opportunities. A wide array of case management services are also provided to help guests gain employment, apply for benefits, engage in treatment, and find stable housing. We work closely with public safety officials, service organizations, and faith communities in central Vermont.