Samaritas is a state-wide human service organization that connects people with families and communities, empowers them to live their fullest life possible, and creates a ripple effect of transformation. Since 1934 - when were named Lutheran Charities - Samaritas has been committed to providing a safe and healthy pathway to brighter futures. In 1959, the organization merged with a similar group and was renamed Lutheran Social Services of Michigan. In 2016, in light of the growing diversity of our services, stakeholders, donors, congregational support and community partners, the organization re-branded to Samaritas. The reference to the work of the Good Samaritan in our name is especially fitting as it is consistent with our mission, values and the services we provide.
Today, Samaritas serves over 10,000 individuals each year. We work with at-risk families across a spectrum of services - including our Family Center for the homeless, refugee services, foster care and adoption, affordable living, home health services and senior care - to improve the health and well-being of Michigan’s most vulnerable by mitigating the devastating cycle of challenges stemming from poverty and trauma.