Why SMI? 'People actually care for you'

Read about Heidi Villegas and Harvest Homestead

When Heidi Villegas and her husband, Joe, were looking into Samaritan Ministries in fall 2023, they were encouraged to know their money would be sent directly to a person and not an institution.

“We didn’t have any health insurance, and we’re not old enough for Medicare, and honestly I don’t trust it,” she said. “We looked into Samaritan, and I think what we really liked is that it’s nice to send a check to a person and then be able to pray for them. It’s just a lot more personal, and people actually care for you out there.”

The Villegas haven’t had any health issues in about 15 years outside of a stint with high blood pressure. Heidi credits their good health to using herbs, food, and natural products in their health care regime.

The couple joined Samaritan Ministries members in October 2023 after being members of a different health care sharing ministry (HCSM). They wanted to be part of an HCSM in case an accident or some unexpected major medical issue came up, Heidi said.

The Villegas enjoy giving to Special Prayer Needs (SPNs) each month in addition to their assigned Share.

“We can kind of pick and choose who to give extra money to, and we can be of help and service to them,” she said.

It’s simple to give to SPNs. Members can give to those extra needs listed on the Share assignments, send money for SPNs found in their Samaritan Dashboard in the Shares section, or give to the Member Assistance Fund. The monthly Prayer Guide also offers extra giving opportunities.

“Samaritan has reasonable Share amounts, and we definitely agree with the moral standards and values,” Heidi said. “Where Joe and I are right now in the world, we really look at value systems before we make decisions.”