Two Leelanau County organizations serving families in need have agreed to join forces.

The boards of Leelanau Christian Neighbors (LCN) and Samaritans’ Closet voted this week to merge into one human services agency. Samaritans’ Closet sells clothing, furniture, bedding, kitchen goods, and more items donated by the public. The store uses its profits to provide individuals in need with short-term financial emergency assistance. LCN, a collaborative effort of 13 regional churches, also provides emergency financial services to individuals in need, in addition to operating food and baby pantries and programs like Blessings In A Backpack. The merger will result in both organizations operating under the Leelanau Christian Neighbors umbrella.

“Ultimately the community is going to benefit,” says LCN Executive Director Mary Stanton. “Both boards decided we can do a better job helping the community when we work as one organization.”

Stanton says Samaritans’ Closet will begin construction this spring on a new store on the same property as LCN. The store is expected to open this fall.

“Thanks to this merger, we will be a complete family,” says Samaritans’ Closet President Molly Phinny. “We have the same mission. As a united team, we will be able to provide more assistance in Leelanau County.”