Samaritan Inn Report - February 17, 2009

Posted by Marc A. Sparks in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX on Feb 18, 2009

The Director's Report

Week 7/2009 February 17, 2009

There are 108 people living at The Samaritan Inn, 27 are children.

Weekly Statistics:

Intakes: 12

Exits: 2

Graduates: 6

Program Notes

Last week, we told you about Kelly who needed help to re-new her CNA (Certified Nurses Assistant) certification and I am pleased to announce that, within half an hour, she was covered. Thank you to all the generous people who made that happen!

The Mavericks have graciously donated tickets to their game on the 17th of March and we have 20 parents and kids who would like to attend-is there anyone who might have a vehicle to transport them? If so, please contact Tracy Orwig, our Children's Caseworker at: tracyorwig@thesamaritaninn.org

APAA (Association of Persons Affected by Addiction) is a not for profit located in Dallas. They provide recovery support services for people recovering from addiction and will now be providing peer to peer support for residents of The Samaritan Inn who fall into this category. They will come twice a week and act in the same capacity as a sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous.

Welcome new Dinner Club member John Bickle, owner of the Stat Lab Company.

The "40 Days of Purpose" Bible study is currently being held at the Inn for all interested residents, thanks to North East Bible Church.

Last week, I had an opportunity for an Oprah moment thanks to Jennifer Ellenberg of Frisco. Jennifer generously donated her car to the Samaritan Inn and we, in turn, donated it to one of our graduates, who was at risk of losing her independence because of transportation problems. It was an incredible moment. Many not for profits accept donations of cars and then sell them at auction- we provide them to people in need, based on caseworkers recommendations. Thank you Jennifer, you have helped a very special woman keep her job and her home.

At our last staff meeting we decided it would be a great idea for us to start a garden-it would provide fresh produce, it would engage our residents and it would cut down on food costs-win/win/win! We have an area where it might work but we need help. We think this would be a great opportunity for an experienced gardener, an Eagle Scout project, or even a family activity. Interested? Please contact Cheryl at cherylspofford@thesamaritaninn.org.

Story of the Week

Helen, age 38 and her 16 year old son came to the Inn on February 4th. Helen also has an 11 year old daughter but she is currently in a residential treatment facility due to a variety of behavioral issues. Helen and her son had been living with Helen's boyfriend, but when they broke up, he had the electricity and water turned off in their apartment and Helen did not have the money necessary to re-start service. Helen's son is a Junior in high school and will soon begin working in our truffle program so that he can obtain vocational skills and prepare to find a job when school is out for the summer. Helen has found a full time job in the food services industry and is committed to saving the money necessary for a security deposit and first months rent at a new apartment. She meets weekly with her caseworker to be sure that her savings are on track and that she is attending mandatory life skill classes.

Sincerely,