The Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans staff is made up entirely of volunteers except for a contracted bookkeeper who assists our Treasure with financial matters, and an information technology consultant who helps keep our Internet and computers functioning properly. Each day new and different needs and challenges come through our doors, and we do our best to answer them.

The last few years have been disastrous for those with low incomes. Now the increase in the cost of living has made it virtually impossible for some, especially those on fixed income, to pay the increased rent and utility rates. That along with bills that accumulated during periods of unemployment because of COVID-19, low-income jobs, the lack of affordable childcare in our area, and ever-increasing healthcare costs, our clients are finding it impossible to get back on their feet.

Good Samaritans serve as a local food source for the needy. With the help of our donors, the Coastal Bend Food Bank, and local supermarkets, we can provide staples, meat, fresh produce, bread, pastries, and other food items. Last year over 1650 households and homeless individuals were provided healthy meals. Some clients visited once, others many times. In total, we provided 13,650 meals to those in need.

Although food is our primary form of assistance, we provide other services as well. Last year over $200,000 was spent on other types of help. Interviewers at Good Samaritans work individually with clients to determine specific needs. Assistance is available for utilities, gasoline for medical visits or job interviews, doctor visits, and rent to help clients through emergency situations. Working with local merchants and a huge thrift store, we can furnish clothing for our clients. We provide pet food, adult diapers, hygiene kits, fans, heaters, minor car repairs, and other essential needs. Our clients' situations vary, and Good Samaritans make every effort to help them meet financial challenges and move toward a better situation in the future.

Special programs provide a little extra for our clients and their children. In August, funds from a grant designated to Kid Care provide appropriate "back-to-school" clothing and school supplies for needy Aransas County students. Then in November, the Kid Care program helps students with warmer clothing for the winter. In December, Good Samaritans coordinates a Holiday Shopping Spree at a local supermarket. Families and individuals choose the foods they want for their Holiday meal before meeting volunteers at check-out. The smiles of the faces of our clients during these events is a joy to see.

Serving our clients while continuing to safeguard the health of both clients and volunteers is an ongoing concern. Many of the resources that were previously available for clients no longer have funds available, so we are seeing more clients than ever before - many who have never needed to ask for help before. Donations to Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans are down, but Rockport-Fulton is still actively helping those who need us so desperately.