Good Samaritan Center asks New Albany board for help buying its longtime home

Sharon Dooley, a representative of the Union County Good Samaritan Center, told the board the nonprofit has occupied the back half of the Baptist Union County Association building rent-free for 13 years and now faces the building’s sale. She said the asking price is $235,000 (negotiable) and the center has until mid- to late June to demonstrate an intent to purchase.

Dooley said the center provides food and financial assistance to county residents, operates entirely on grants, donations, businesses and church support, and has invested in refrigeration and other equipment at the current location. She said the group has started outreach to potential funders, applied for a Toyota grant and spoken with BNA Bank about financing but has not completed an appraisal or inspection.

Board members asked for details about fundraising progress and the purchase deadline. Dooley said they had about two and a half weeks since receiving notice and were beginning more formal fundraising and outreach. The board offered to meet with center representatives in the office to discuss options and guidance.

The presentation and follow-up questions were part of the public-comment portion of the meeting. No board commitment of funds or specific grant assistance was recorded at the meeting; Dooley asked the board for "guidance, support, and partnership," including possible financial support, grant help, identification of funding sources, or a public endorsement.

Next steps: Dooley said the center will continue fundraising and pursue financing; the board asked staff to follow up and review possible avenues to assist the nonprofit.