Fayette Samaritans dedicate new facility

By CAROLYN CARY
ccary@TheCitizenNews.com

After nearly 12 years in quarters donated by the Department of Family and Children's Services and Leslie Contracting, the Fayette Samaritans are at last in its very own facility. Last Sunday a ceremony was held to dedicate the 2,400-square-foot building.

The nonprofit, charitable organization was originally begun by several churches in the county. They felt that a central food and clothing bank was much more efficient than each church trying to have its own.

The Samaritans' operating expense accounts for only four percent of its income due to everyone volunteering their services. Utilities, insurance, and telephone account for its only outgo.

A capital funds campaign was begun in late spring and initially $120,000 was needed. Due to the Fayetteville Christian Church donating a portion of its land, the Square Foot Ministry organizing and overseeing construction, and many in-kind donations, the total expense was nearly $70,000. The balance raised over that went to the Square Foot Ministry and will be used to rebuild or rehabilitate substandard housing in Fayette County.

Nearly 150 persons came by to see the new building and participated in the dedication. Fayetteville Christian Church music minister Kevin Adkins led the group in several hymns. Also having a part in the program were the Rev. Betsy Haas, associate pastor of Peachtree City United Methodist Church; the Rev. Dr. Thomas Pilgrim, pastor of Fayetteville First United Methodist Church; and Minister Daniel Overdorf of Fayetteville Christian Church.

Samaritans president Wanda Jennings welcomed the visitors and related the story of the group's years of perseverance. The organization is now supported by over 40 member churches who either donate cash or canned goods. This newspaper publishes a "top ten needs" list the first Wednesday of each month and donations of canned goods or clothing can be taken to the Samaritans.

Its new address is 126 Hickory Avenue, at the corner of New Hope and Hickory roads. It is opened Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. The phone number is 770-719-2707.