Good Samaritans of Garland, affectionately known as Good Sam, is set to move to a new 8,000 square foot facility. The building currently serves as a branch of the Garland Public Library, which is set to receive a brand new space. The new Good Sam facility will be located at 3319 Edgewood Drive. The organization anticipates being operational in its new space by early January 2026.
To facilitate this transition, Good Sam is actively fundraising with a goal to cover the $1.5 million building cost through charitable donations. In 2024 alone, the organization served an impressive 202,518 individuals, distributed 2,585,427 pounds of food, and provided over 2 million meals, including support for 4,769 unhoused individuals.
Currently operating out of a cramped 2,000 square feet, Good Sam has maximized every inch of their existing space. The new facility will enable them to expand their services and better accommodate volunteers, allowing for larger groups to assist in their mission.
Community Impact
In 2024, Good Sam’s programs served a diverse demographic, with 33% of their services directed towards children and 12.9% towards seniors. The organization is funded through a combination of sources: 30.5% from grants, 19.5% from annual fundraising events, and 49.8% from dedicated monthly donors, including individuals, churches, and businesses. Their fundraising efforts in 2024 exceeded $465,000.
A notable initiative launched last year is the Student Weekend Bag program, which currently serves 88 elementary school students by providing bags containing two breakfasts, two lunches, and two snacks each week. Good Sam aims to expand this program to include any student in need at the participating schools.
Enhanced Services Ahead
The new location will not only alleviate space constraints but will also enable Good Sam to implement best practices in food pantry logistics, reduce wait times, and create a more comfortable atmosphere for guests. Additionally, the facility will feature a private space for guests to have virtual healthcare visits provided through Parkland.
Executive Director Sara Kenefake stated, “Good Sam’s move is a beautiful milestone for Garland. It’s a sign of hope, growth, and deep compassion. With this new space, we are saying to every struggling family: you are seen, you are valued, and help is here. This move means we can serve more people with warmth and dignity, offering not just food, but also stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. It reflects the community’s shared belief that no one should go hungry and that together, we can create lasting change.”
Donor Recognition Opportunities
To support this move, Good Sam is offering various donor recognition opportunities, including naming rights for different areas within the new facility. Contributions range from $500,000 for naming the pantry to smaller recognition opportunities for donations as low as $10,000.
Good Samaritans of Garland has been a vital resource for the community since its establishment in 1983. Originally focused on the Garland ISD region, the organization now serves anyone in need, ensuring that families and individuals facing food insecurity receive assistance with dignity and compassion. To help and learn more about the Good Samaritans of Garland expansion, visit goodsamofgarland.org.
