The Samadhi Refuge emergency shelter in Saugerties closed on April 7, ending operations after providing housing for homeless individuals since early 2023. The Ulster County Department of Social Services (DSS), which placed clients at the facility, stated that Samadhi was repeatedly informed of the required eligibility and invoicing procedures for emergency housing payments. DSS said all invoices were reviewed, with explanations given for those not approved.
Following the closure, DSS began relocating its nine clients from the site, along with others not placed through the agency.
Despite receiving substantial funding from Peter Buffet’s Novo Foundation ($864,000 in 2023 alone), Samadhi’s financial troubles run deep and go beyond the shelter. Board President Kathy Nolan said the nonprofit, which also runs outpatient and mobile treatment programs, is facing severe fiscal challenges and will undergo major restructuring. The group is behind on rent at multiple locations and may abandon a newly leased outreach site.
Key financial setbacks include the loss of a $797,000 county contract and delayed insurance reimbursements. Comptroller March Gallagher froze $110,000 in payments after audits revealed questionable expenses, including cash withdrawals, luxury purchases, and undisclosed loans. Gallagher is withholding further funding until Samadhi produces a clean 2023 audit, citing concerns over financial risk to the county.
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