St. Vincent de Paul Society

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is a lay organization dedicated to helping the poor and the suffering in our communities. Since its inception in 1833, the organization has sought to minister to the poor and those experiencing hardships with gentleness and kindness and to above all, respect the God given dignity of all who seek our services.

St. Vincent de Paul members (Vincentians) meet with individuals and families in order to determine how they can best be served. Some of the services that we typically provide include assistance with food, clothing, shelter and transportation expenses. The financial assistance that we are able to provide is based upon donations from parishioners, Vincentians, and the good will of others. Last year we provided over $14,000 in support to clients in our area.

The conference at St. Paul of the Cross was founded in 1968. Our Vincentians meet with clients at the Church throughout the month. We occasionally visit clients at their homes. We have training sessions throughout the year that help Vincentians become comfortable with conducting casework. During our monthly meetings, the group’s spiritual director leads us in a discussion of a contemporary religious text or question. We then discuss the specifics of the cases and clients that we met with and see if there is any follow up work that any of the other members might be able to provide.

We also provide food to clients through our own Food Pantry located in the basement of the church. 43 members meet every fourth Sunday of the month in the Spiritual Center. For additional information contact Cathy Bailey, president.

ACTIVITIES:

March - Hunger Walk
April - Work at West End Family Support Center
Spring To Life (St. Pius High School
May - Work at West End Family Support Center
Tee off for Hope (Achasta Golf Course)
June - Work at West End Family Support Center
July - Work at West End Family Support Center
August - Work at West End Family Support Center
September - Work at West End Family Support Center
October - Work at West End Family Support Center
Bundle Weekend/Food Drive
4th Annual Evening of Hope
November - Work at West End Family Support Center
Thanksgiving Baskets Project
December - Work at West End Family Support Center
Christmas Project