All in attendance were there with the same motivation, which was to spread awareness and support the efforts of both the homeless population and young mothers and their children throughout the community. Dayton resident and Foundation Board member, Ken Watson, emceed the event that included inspiring and moving stories about those who receive services from the programs.

The Samaritan Homeless Clinic cares for more than 2,200 homeless individuals every year by providing a variety of services from medical and dental care, to mental health and substance abuse services. The clinic also offers life skills training in addition to methods for managing personal finances, stress and nutrition. Through the generosity of donors, in conjunction with grants, the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation is able to help support the clinic’s services.

The compassion and support from donors is what ensures that the needs of young mothers and their children within the Mothers Empowered Program are being met. The gifts from Rays of Hope and other initiatives help combat the high-rate of infant mortality and premature births in the Dayton area. Through medical care and wrap-around supportive services, Mothers Empowered is making a positive impact on dozens of families annually. The need for continued support cannot be emphasized enough as the Foundation works to fund upwards of 70% of the cost required to maintain this lifesaving program.