GOOD SAMARITAN SHELTER

Good Samaritan Shelter (GSS) provides a comprehensive range of housing, recovery, and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and those in recovery throughout Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. Current programs include emergency and transitional shelter, permanent supportive and affordable housing, rapid rehousing, street outreach, homelessness prevention, recovery and substance use services, mental health services, interim housing, sobering services, and specialized programs for families, women, and other populations with unique needs.

GSS continues to expand its capacity in response to changing community needs. In 2026, the organization added new interim housing capacity and housing intervention services through its partnership with Santa Barbara County, while also expanding access to shelter-based medical care. GSS provides housing and supportive services across dozens of programs and locations, helping individuals move from homelessness toward stable housing and greater independence. GSS also invests in long-term stability through initiatives such as Food for Good, which combines culinary training, food production, and employment opportunities. In 2026, GSS launched the Good Samwich food truck, providing paid, hands-on employment experience for graduates of its culinary training program while creating a sustainable social enterprise.

Across its programs, GSS continues to strengthen partnerships with local governments, health and behavioral health providers, housing organizations, and other community nonprofits to address homelessness and improve outcomes for people throughout the Central Coast.