Good Samaritan Community Services, San Antonio

Good Samaritan Community Services (GSCS) believes all people are created with value and dignity. Founded by the Episcopal Church in 1951, we have actively served as a place of change, reaching out to support individuals and families in overcoming the impact of poverty. Our mission, changing lives through excellent community services, is carried out each day through programs that foster education, character development, healthy living and self sufficiency. Our ministry is a partnership of changing lives, shared by those who are served and those who serve.

The Good Samaritan Center was established in 1951 by the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas under the leadership of Bishop Everett Jones. What began as a downtown mission of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, has grown to become a private, non-profit 501(c)3 organization and United Way agency that provides comprehensive services to more than 4,500 individuals annually. Good Samaritan Community Services actively serves as a place of change, reaching out to support thousands of people working to improve their lives and to overcome the challenges of poverty.

Child Development Services Good Samaritan Community Services was the first childcare center in San Antonio serving children in poverty to be accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The Child Development Program (CDP) provides a place where infants and children can grow into healthy, intelligent, contributing members of the community. Our program strives to support each child in his or her optimal growth and educational development and serves 185 children annually.

Youth Development Services promotes opportunities for youth to acquire the necessary life skills, education, and work experience to enable them to have productive careers and become responsible citizens. Services include an after school and summer enrichment program for students age 6-18 which includes classes aimed at building character, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, and preparing students for college.

The Family Development Program serves as a neighborhood resource and offers older adults and families the opportunity to achieve self-sufficiency and strengthen family life. Activities that the program offers for families and seniors are aimed at enhancing quality of life and include counseling and case management for all clients. Daytime activities are specifically designed for persons 55 years of age and older. Activities include nutrition classes, field trips, computer lab, music appreciation, substance abuse awareness, support groups, health fairs, walking club, arts and crafts,dance classes and holiday celebrations. As a nutrition site for the City of San Antonio, the senior center serves a hot lunch Monday-Friday for all participants.