Good Samaritan Services (GSS), a nonprofit organization that seeks to combat homelessness in Lancaster and Chester counties, recently celebrated the opening of a facility in downtown Lancaster that will offer housing for single mothers and their children experiencing a crisis. On Oct. 15, GSS held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated building on North Lime Street, and it welcomed its first clients at the end of October.

"It's so essential to be able to offer short-term housing for people with nowhere to go," said GSS' marketing and communications manager, Rachel Shelley. "Lancaster city is one of the most densely populated areas of families that we serve, and we're happy to be able to take this first step to helping more people in need."

After the ceremony, attendees were invited to tour the new residential facility. GSS had been using the building as an office space since 2017, and it served as a place for case managers to provide preventative services and meet with families at risk of eviction. The building was frequently empty between meetings, and GSS began thinking of ways it could better utilize the space. The organization began moving its offices out of the facility in October 2023, and the building was renovated to support transitional housing.

With the renovation and official opening of the North Lime Street building, GSS now offers short-term housing at all five of its locations, which include facilities in Phoenixville, Coatesville, Kennett Square and Ephrata. The Lancaster city location will provide safe housing for up to eight people in addition to case management services and resources. Although the facility will only serve single mothers and children for the time being, GSS plans to expand its services to assist all demographics over the next 10 years.

Another factor in GSS' decision to offer housing in Lancaster city is the convenience and accessibility it offers residents. Clients who stay at the facility are closer to child care, have more job opportunities nearby and can easily access public transportation. "It's a rich opportunity for people to access resources in the city that we haven't been able to offer before," Shelley said.

Although the North Lime Street location has officially opened its doors, GSS still hopes to complete two addition projects to add a laundry room and renovate a patio on the second level of the building. Shelley said the organization is seeking partnerships with businesses and other nonprofits, as well as volunteers to assist with the projects. "We would love to welcome people for tours to learn more," added Shelley.

For more information, visit https://goodsamservices.org or email info@goodsamservices.org.