Fayette Samaritans is a local non-profit organization dedicated to providing empathetic assistance to Fayette County residents facing emergencies, such as unemployment or an unexpected illness, in order to avoid evictions and utility shutoffs. Through the support of local churches, generous donors, and volunteers, the charity is able to support members of the community- who they are now calling on as their need for volunteers grows. 

Founded in 1991 with the collaboration of 11 local churches, the Fayette Samaritans have grown to have support from nearly 40 churches and partners such as St. Vincent De Paul, Kiwanis, and the Fayetteville Public Library.

Though the organization has grown in the number of supporting churches, the number of people seeking assistance has increased also.

Sherman Spencer, a volunteer with the Fayette Samaritans, recalls that in all situations he has seen over his years of involvement in the organization- whether it be a job loss, a divorce, or the passing of a family member- that he has approached each case from a point of empathy.

“You have to wonder, what would you do if you were in that position?” Spencer said. 

Each weekday morning, from 9 a.m to noon volunteers meet with individuals seeking their services to assess their situation and provide aid. Their office, located at 126 Hickory Road in Fayetteville, houses shelves of food and clothes for clients and their families.

Linda Ladd, president of Fayette Samaritans and a former social worker, explained that the group’s current challenge is an aging volunteer base as their dedicated volunteers are unable to support the organization in ways they could have in the past.

“It’s more difficult for them to go to the store, lug everything home, and bring it back here,” Ladd said. 

Any new volunteers who are willing and able to give their time and service to the Fayette Samaritans would be greatly appreciated. Those interested should contact their office at 770-719-2707 to discover ways in which they can help the nonprofit through service. 

In addition to volunteer support, the Fayette Samaritans are seeking financial donations and food items to keep up with the increasing demand. Donations they are looking for in the upcoming month include:

1. Canned Chicken
2. Canned Mixed Vegetables
3. Canned Corn
4. Dried Pasta (no spaghetti please)
5. Chicken and Beef Broth
6. Boxed Mashed Potatoes
7. Pancake Syrup
8. Jiffy Cornbread Mix
9. Tea Bags
10. Feminine Products

A full wish list and donation information can be found on the Fayette Samaritans website.