Simi Valley Samaritan Center

At the Samaritan Center, volunteering is not only something our community members do for others — it’s also a meaningful way many of our clients give back while building confidence, connection, and purpose.

Clients who are connected with their caseworker have the opportunity to volunteer at the center while also earning helpful resources such as gas cards or bus passes. For many clients, especially those living out of their vehicles or navigating transportation challenges, these resources can make a significant difference in helping them safely access shelters, appointments, jobs, and services throughout the community.

This month, we asked our Pantry Coordinator, Sarai, to share her thoughts on clients volunteering at the Samaritan Center.

“Volunteering allows clients to build confidence, learn responsibility, and gain a sense of purpose while giving back to the center that supports them. Having clients volunteer helps us get to know them better and build stronger relationships. It helps clients feel valued, included, and part of the community, which I feel is so special.”

We also asked a few clients to share what volunteering has meant to them:

Luis recently began volunteering at the Samaritan Center and shared that after his first experience, he almost forgot he was volunteering because he already felt like he belonged and was part of the community here.

Jacob, who has volunteered consistently for more than four months, said volunteering has been very rewarding because it gives him the opportunity to return the favor and give back in his own way.

Gene volunteered in exchange for bus passes during the cold winter months while participating in the PADS Winter Shelter Program. The bus passes helped him safely travel from location to location to access shelter and resources throughout the community. Gene also wanted to recognize the Samaritan Center staff for always going above and beyond to support clients with care and compassion.

These stories are a reminder that community support comes full circle. We are grateful for every client who chooses to give back, share their time, and help strengthen the Samaritan Center community.

A message from the Samaritan Center 💙

We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our community and the donations we receive to support those experiencing homelessness.

However, we kindly ask that donations ONLY be dropped off during our business hours. Please do not leave items outside our building after hours. Unfortunately, items left outside are often damaged, become trash, or include items that we cannot use.

As a homeless drop-in center, our mission is to provide practical support and essential resources. Before donating, please ask yourself: "Would a person experiencing homelessness be able to use this item?" For example, we have no use for items such as doll houses, BBQ grills, broken household goods, or other items that do not serve the needs of our clients.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Your thoughtful donations help us better serve those in need and ensure that resources are used effectively. Thank you for supporting our community.

June's Dinner Site Calendar 🌴☀️🕶️

Did you attend Second Chance Prom and take a photo at the photo booth but forget to grab a digital copy? Email us at [email protected] and we would be happy to send your memorable prom photo your way! 🤩💜

This year’s Second Chance Prom was truly a night to remember. From the music and dancing to the laughter shared throughout the evening, the event was filled with joy, connection, and an incredible sense of community.💛✨

Guests came together to celebrate not only a fun and nostalgic evening, but also the mission of the Samaritan Center and the impact we can make together. The energy in the room was unforgettable, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar and new faces enjoying the night side by side.

One of the highlights of the evening was celebrating our Prom Queen, Jodi Lewis, and Prom King, Leigh Seaton, along with our amazing Royal Court and all of the Prince and Princess nominees who brought excitement, enthusiasm, and so much heart to the event.

This event felt beyond special because it reflects the spirit of our community — people coming together to uplift, encourage, and support one another while creating lasting memories along the way. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a meaningful success. We’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration!

TODAY ONLY! 🤩

Join us this Tuesday, May 26th, for a delicious way to give back! 🍝❤️

Viva La Pasta is hosting a fundraiser in support of the Samaritan Center. Present this flyer when ordering, and 20% of your purchase will go directly toward supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in our community.

Join us this Tuesday, May 26th, for a delicious way to give back! 🍝❤️

Viva La Pasta is hosting a fundraiser in support of the Samaritan Center. Present this flyer when ordering, and 20% of your purchase will go directly toward supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in our community.

We are officially SOLD OUT for the Second Chance Prom 🎉✨ We are so excited to host this unforgettable night and want to thank everyone who will be attending. We cannot wait to celebrate together!

2 DAYS LEFT! Due to overwhelming excitement and support for the event, we have extended ticket sales through this weekend only. 💛✨ The Second Chance Prom will be a night to remember on Thursday, May 14th.

Visit the link below to get your tickets today! 🤩
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/secondchanceprom2026/event/secondchanceprom2026/?blm_aid=0

Due to overwhelming excitement and support for the event, we have extended ticket sales through this weekend only. This is officially the final weekend to purchase tickets, so now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable evening filled with nostalgia, joy, compassion, and celebration. 💛✨

Visit the link below to get your tickets today! 🤩
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/secondchanceprom2026/event/secondchanceprom2026/?blm_aid=0