Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

WINSTON-SALEM — The annual Penny Campaign benefiting Samaritan Ministries is underway for its 27th year in the community. All proceeds raised go toward guest services and the fulfillment of Samaritan Ministries’ mission: providing food, shelter, and hope through Christian love.

Jan Kelly, executive director, says, “While historically you would see hundreds of jars around the community, we are limited in the distribution of these items this year due to COVID-19. Members of our community can still support the Penny Campaign in a variety of ways, and we encourage people to get creative in how they engage with the campaign to benefit our neighbors in need.”

Here are some ways to participate this year:

Samaritan has launched an online fundraising platform and is looking for Penny Campaigners to spread awareness of the campaign and raise funds online from friends, family, and colleagues.

Those that have collections of spare change and dollars are invited to drop off their gifts at collection day on Dec. 5. The drive-through event will be held at Truist Stadium (951 Ballpark Way) from 9 a.m.-noon. Collection day will follow all COVID-19 safety protocols.

Donations can also be made online at samaritanforsyth.org .

“To become a Penny Campaigner, visit Samaritan’s website and create your customized fundraiser with just a few clicks. Share your campaign on social media and e-mail, encouraging gifts from your network to benefit Samaritan Ministries this holiday season,” Kelly added. “Or give to an existing team —an individual, business, church, or group, that you want to support. Every donation makes a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our community.”

About Samaritan Ministries

Founded in 1981, Samaritan Ministries is an interdenominational, volunteer-based Christian ministry that serves Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. The Samaritan Ministries Soup Kitchen and Samaritan Inn Shelter are open 365 days and nights a year to serve people in need. Samaritan Ministries is located at 414 East Northwest Boulevard near downtown Winston-Salem. For more information about Samaritan Ministries, go to samaritanforsyth.org.