Who we are?

Our Mission

Nourish our neighbors today and build a more food-secure community tomorrow.

Our Vision

A thriving community where every neighbor has reliable, daily access to nourishing meals and nutritious food.

Our Values

Nourishment • Community • Compassion • Dignity • Equity • Service

40 YEARS IN THE NEWS…

Key moments in history

1982

Founded by members of First United Methodist, Grace United Methodist, First Presbyterian, and Westminster Presbyterian Churches.

Serves its first meal, feeding 11 people, in the Salvation Army basement.

Moves into 151 N Water St.

1985

Relocates to 543 N. Water St.

"Thanksgiving Joy: Jackie McFadden of Warrensburg, far right, and Janet Enloe of Decatur share a laugh as they serve Thanksgiving dinner along with other volunteers Thursday afternoon at the Good Samaritan Inn of Decatur."

Herald & Review / Stephen Warmowski

"Helping Hands: Eleven-year-old Ayo Odunsi, a sixth-grade student at Johns Hill, ladles leftover stew into containers Thursday at Good Samaritan Inn. Since before Christmas, students have volunteered time at the community soup kitchen."

Herald & Review / Dennis Magee

2005

Expands from 5 to 7 weekly meals

2010

Moves to 920 N Union St.

"Good Samaritan Director Brenda Gorrell Pyatt prays over the lunch to be served with a host of volunteers from Star-Tek and the Millikin University football team."

Herald & Review photos /Kelly J. Huff

2015

Launches Mercy Gardens

"Members of the Youth Leadership Institute pull chicken during a visit to the Good Samaritan Inn. The students are, from left, Central A&M High School students Olivia Jordan, Lucas Lower, Abby Forlines andSt. Teresa High School student Nate

Kralman"

Herald & Review Jim Bowling

2025

Mercy Gardens expands to 6 acres