SAMMinistries History

During a cold winter morning in 1981, the problems of the homeless were brought into stark perspective for the members of First Presbyterian Church in downtown San Antonio. A homeless man, froze to death, was found on the church grounds. In response, volunteers started a ministry in the church gymnasium to shelter and care for the growing number of homeless individuals.

By 1983 this program, having gained financial assistance of several downtown churches, was incorporated into San Antonio Metropolitan Ministry, Inc. (better known as SAMMinistries). Today SAMMinistries has a staff of more than 70 and is supported by more than thousands of volunteers who support families and individuals on their path to self-sufficiency throughout San Antonio (contributing an average of over 37,000 service hours annually).

Mission Statement

SAMMinistries is an interfaith ministry whose mission is to help the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless attain self-sufficiency by offering, with dignity and compassion, shelter, housing, and services. SAMMinistries also provides volunteers opportunities to be renewed and fulfilled as they serve.