Samaritans Supporting Those in Need

East Maitland Samaritans is made up of approximately 28 volunteers. Volunteers work in teams of 5-6 members and conduct a "drop in" centre at St Peter's Youth Centre each Thursday between 10am and 1pm. Members offer support to those in need in our local community, over a cup of tea or coffee, encouraging a friendly chat and offering a sympathetic ear.

East Maitland Samaritans operates under the umbrella of the Samaritan Foundation (the welfare arm of the Anglican Church) and receives NO government funding. East Maitland Samaritans is largely driven by the Parish and is reliant upon donations from the Parish, Council, clubs, Masonic Lodges and School food drives.

The major support offered is emergency relief food parcels. Each client is interviewed privately to determine the level of assistance required, based on their needs.

Additional assistance of utility vouchers is available to qualifying clients who have difficulty in paying gas, electricity, telephone or water bills. Voucher assistance is also available for some limited pharmaceutical needs.

Donated blankets also provide some comfort during winter months.

East Maitland Samaritans also provide a referral service to other welfare agencies, including financial, bereavements and gambling counselling services. Advice is also given on where to find and purchase lower priced food, how to save energy and water usage, as well as finding assistance for the homeless and recently unemployed.