SAMMinistries hosts Memorial for the Homeless, offering dignity to unhoused neighbors | News4SA

SAN ANTONIO – Local organizers are hosting a remembrance for all of our unhoused community members who tragically passed over the past year.

SAMMinistries is inviting the San Antonio and Bexar County community to honor the lives of those who passed away while experiencing homelessness at the 19th Annual Homeless Persons’ Memorial Service.

The event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Milam Park, located at 500 W. Commerce St., San Antonio, TX 78207.

In keeping with SAMMinistries’ mission, the service aims to offer dignity and compassion to those who lost their lives without a place to call home.

The event is held annually on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, symbolizing respect for individuals who were often overlooked during their lifetimes.

This year, the names of 270 individuals who passed away will be read aloud. A candle will be lit and a bell rung for each person to honor their memory. The service will also acknowledge those who died without an official record.

“This night is an opportunity for all of us to recommit to serving our neighbors in need,” said Nikisha J. Baker, President and CEO of SAMMinistries. “This Memorial highlights the collective impact of our efforts to provide shelter, housing, and supportive services, and the power of hope in transforming our community.”

The event is organized in partnership with Christian Assistance Ministries, Communities Under the Bridge, Corazon Ministries, Endeavors, Goodwill San Antonio, Haven for Hope, The Salvation Army, Close to Home, Bexar County, and the City of San Antonio.

Before the service, a warm meal provided by the HOPE Truck and Catholic Charities, along with community resources, will be available to those experiencing homelessness.

SAMMinistries is an interfaith ministry dedicated to helping the homeless and those at risk of homelessness achieve self-sufficiency through shelter, housing, and services. For more information, visit www.samm.org.