Whether considered as Asian Americans or as a distinct minority group, the Samoans in the United States are ignored by social program planners. The study reported in this document was designed to provide baseline data on the needs of the Samoan community in southern California. Such information as household size, sex and age distributions of household members, income level, occupational and educational attainment, and immigration history was collected in order to obtain a general demographic and socioeconomic profile of the community. In addition, information was sought on cultural patterns and on the respondents' perceptions of community needs, their utilization of various medical services, and the special needs of elderly Samoans. The study's design, questionnaire instrument, sampling techniques and data collection and analysis are described. Statistical results are presented in table form and discussed. The hope is expressed that on the basis of increased knowledge about sociocultural, economic and language problems in the Samoan community, the Government will be more willing and able to respond to Samoans' needs. (GC)