The Samaritan Charitable Society of Salem is 192 year old organization. It was started by a group of local women who saw how much help recent immigrants to Salem needed. It has always been a non-denominational organization. Gina said that they view themselves as a first responder organization for those in immediate need of financial assistance, often providing a lifeline to get recipients through particularly rough financial patches. They partner with about fifty other local organizations, giving away immediate financial assistance to those in need. When providing material assistance, they emphasize buying from locally owned businesses. This organization is run completely by volunteers. Partners include HAWC, local political leaders, Salem Council on Aging, Salem Public Schools, Salem Pantry, LifeBridge, Salem Housing Authority, and the Salem YMCA.
The Samaritan Charitable Society of Salem offers short term immediate help to those in need, and recipients must demonstrate that they can move forward after the aide is given. Gina provided some recent examples of their successes, such as a man with 2 children whose car broke down. He needed the car to get to and from work, so they got him a car. Another example is the all-to-common story of a new Salem resident who just got admission to Salem housing, but needed a fridge and a mattress. They have paid for funerals, rent for recently widowed woman, and for a babysitter so that an immigrant mother could get to school. They also provided soccer equipment to two immigrant brothers who spoke almost no English so they could play on a club team. This experience helped the boys immerse themselves in the English language while developing friendships. Gina noted that there has been a significant increase in requests so far this year, specifically from those in need of housing.
The Samaritan Charitable Society of Salem get its funding from donations, fundraising events (see below), the City of Salem Trust Fund, and an endowment run by Cabot. They are always happy to take donations.
Our Rotary Foundation Annual Fund SHARE Fundraiser for District 7930 is underway! Get your tickets today!
• 50% of the money raised will be donated to the Annual Fund SHARE of the Rotary Foundation.
• 50% of the money raised will go to one lucky winner of this 50/50 raffle.
Our Annual Fund SHARE needs your help so that we can provide additional funds for our club projects. Our goal is to raise $40,000 through raffle ticket sales which would mean $20,000 to the Annual Fund SHARE and $20,000 to one very lucky raffle winner.
$30 per ticket. Winner will be chosen on June 1, 2024. You do not need to be present to win.
Are you interested in becoming a LEAP for Education Mentor this Summer?
LEAP is seeking dedicated volunteers like you to join our rewarding Summer mentoring program! As a LEAP mentor, you'll be matched with a student for one-on-one support, professional skill building, and personal development.
Here's what you can expect:
Flexible time commitment: Choose a time that works for you, 1 (one-hour) meeting per week for 6 weeks. The total commitment is 10 hours!
Meaningful impact: Make a real difference in a student's life by providing career support, knowledge, and guidance.
Supportive environment: LEAP provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure your success as a mentor.
18 Washington Square
Salem, MA 01970 United States of America
NOTE: The fourth Tuesday of the month is an evening meeting, beginning at 5:15.
If you are interested in learning more about Salem Rotary, please email president@salemrotary.com.
50:50 Raffle
.png)
