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2013
Shawano Area Matthew 25 (SAM25) began in 2013 when a group of concerned citizens gathered in a home to watch and discuss the documentary The Line, which highlights the realities of homelessness. Through this conversation, the group recognized a significant need in the Shawano area to provide basic necessities such as housing, food, and healthcare for individuals experiencing poverty.

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2014
After continued planning and preparation, SAM25 was officially incorporated and received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. The group began meeting regularly and invited local service providers to share information about existing resources for individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. During this time, SAM25 established its mission and vision and chose its name, inspired by the Bible verse in Matthew 25, where Jesus calls on others to care for “the least of these.”

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2015
With the generous support of Shawano Municipal Utilities, SAM25 was given the opportunity to open a winter emergency shelter, SAM’s House, in Shawano. Although the initial proposal was denied by the Shawano City Council in May 2015, it was later approved in September. The community came together—volunteers, churches, civic groups, and local businesses—to make the shelter a reality.

SAM’s House Emergency Shelter, originally located at 213 East Green Bay Street, opened its doors on November 15, 2015, and operated through April 30, 2016. In its first season, the shelter operated with one part-time staff member and dedicated volunteers. 58 individuals were served. During this time, the foundation for the Steps to Success Program was developed to support guests in achieving stability and independence.

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2016–2017
In its second season (November 2016 – April 2017), SAM25 expanded operations by hiring an Executive Director while continuing to rely on part-time staff and volunteers. The Steps to Success Program continued to grow, helping many guests connect with employment and secure housing. A weekly Resource Day was offered to provide anyone in the community with access to help with housing and job searches, shower facilities, hygiene supplies and clothing.

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2019–2020
SAM25 continued advancing its mission, vision, and goals by launching a capital campaign to renovate a permanent facility at 105 East Richmond Street in Shawano. In October 2020, just days before the shelter season began, volunteers successfully relocated operations from Green Bay Street to the new Richmond Street location. The shelter opened on November 1, 2020.

  

2021
With the assistance of a group of Leadership Shawano County members, Sam’s Closet Thrift Store opened. The store helps generate revenue to support SAM25 programs while also providing essential items to community members in need.

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2022
The Free Community Health Clinic and Optometry Clinic was established, expanding access to essential healthcare services for underserved individuals in the Shawano area. This program provides a safe and welcoming space where community members can receive basic medical care, helping to reduce barriers to treatment and improve overall health outcomes for those who may otherwise go without care.

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2025

SAM’s House Emergency Shelter expanded its shelter season to run from October 15 through May 15. This expansion allows SAM25 to provide a longer period of safe, warm shelter during the colder months, ensuring that individuals and families experiencing homelessness have increased access to critical support and stability during times of greatest need.