The Samaritans of Boston Expand

Merger with Samaritans Suburban West Brings about new "Samaritans of Greater Boston" and ability to reach more individuals at risk of suicide.

BOSTON, May 2, 2005. . .The Samaritans of Boston has expanded by joining with the Samaritans Suburban West to create a new organization – Samaritans, Inc., with offices in Kenmore Square and Framingham.

The new organization, led by Roberta Hurtig, Executive Director, will maintain two locations to provide Samaritan services without interruption to communities throughout eastern Massachusetts, including communities in Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk and Worcester counties. This includes continued operation of all existing helplines and phone lines. The merger will also provide new services to Middlesex, Norfolk and Worcester counties.

“The entire Samaritan community is thrilled with this expansion,” said Ms. Hurtig. “Two excellent volunteer operations have come together to provide increased services in a greater geographic area. This will be of great benefit to those who are in crisis and to those who work with populations that are at risk.”

“The shared passionate commitment to the Samaritans mission allows us to join together and serve more people, more effectively,” added Claire Comstock, chair of Samaritans.

The new organization will leverage administrative services and cost efficiencies to provide improved service for clients and better facilities for volunteers. New services for Middlesex, Norfolk and Worcester counties include Community Education and Outreach. Eileen Davis, a long-time employee of Samaritans Suburban West, will join the staff of the new organization. Eileen will work with Director of Program Services, Kim Kates, and the rest of the program team to ensure a smooth transition and coordination during the merger.

The Samaritans of Boston is the oldest and largest of the Samaritan branches founded in the United States, having celebrated its 30 th year of service in 2004. Samaritans Suburban West celebrated its 20 th year of service in 2004.

he Samaritans of Greater Boston now has more than 50 years of service to the isolated, despairing and suicidal in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Samaritans, Inc. is certified by the American Association of Suicidology and participates in the two national helplines, 1 800 Suicide and 1 800 273-TALK

Contact Information

Roberta Hurtig
Samaritans
617-536-2460
rhurtig@samaritanshope.org

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