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The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international Catholic voluntary organization dedicated to serving the poor and disadvantaged.
It was founded in 1833 in Paris, France by Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, a French lawyer, author, and professor.
The organization was established with the mission of providing practical assistance to those in need, inspired by the values of Christian charity and compassion.
Mission:
To serve those in need with love, respect, justice, and joy, offering help regardless of creed, ethnic or social background, health, gender, or political opinions.
Vision:
To empower those experiencing poverty and social injustice by providing resources, advocacy, and community support.
Key Principles
Person-to-Person Service:
Volunteers (called “Vincentians”) visit those in need to understand their situations and provide assistance personally and confidentially.
Local Focus:
SVdP operates through local parish-based conferences, addressing the unique needs of each community.
Human Dignity:
Every person is seen with dignity and respect, regardless of their situation.
Non-discrimination:
Services are provided without discrimination to all those in need.
Services Offered
Food Pantries and Meal Programs:
Providing essential food supplies and prepared meals to families and individuals.
Financial Assistance:
Helping with rent, utilities, and emergency expenses for those struggling to make ends meet.
Thrift Stores:
Offering affordable clothing, furniture, and household goods, with proceeds supporting local outreach.
Housing Programs:
Assisting with emergency shelters, transitional housing, and homelessness prevention.
Disaster Relief:
Providing immediate relief and long-term recovery support during natural disasters.
Advocacy and Support Services:
Helping with job training, healthcare access, and social services navigation.
Global Presence
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is present in more than 150 countries, with thousands of local chapters serving millions of people annually. Its international headquarters are located in Paris, France, where it was first established.
Motto:
“No work of charity is foreign to the Society.”
Mar 17, 2023
St. Vincent de Paul
Vincent de Paul (24 April 1581 – 27 September 1660) commonly known as Saint Vincent de Paul, was a French Catholic priest who dedicated himself to serving the poor.
Mar 17, 2023
Frederic Ozanam
Antoine-Frédéric Ozanam born 23 April 1813 – 8 September 1853) was a French literary scholar, lawyer, journalist and equal rights advocate. He founded with fellow students the Conference of Charity, later known as the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
Mar 17, 2023
Jeanne Marie Rendu
Jeanne Marie Rendu (later called Sister Rosalie Rendu) was the eldest of four girls in her family.
Sep 20, 2012
Deacon Thomas F. Owens
We are saddened to announce the passing of Deacon Tom Owens on November 20, 2012.
Sep 20, 2012
Deacon Thomas F. Owens - Sixty Years of Service
We honored Deacon Tom Owens on September 20, 2012 with a lifetime service award. Deacon Tom has been a member of the St. Vincent De Paul Society for sixty years. He recently stepped down as president of the St. James SVDP in 2011 after many years of service.