St. Vincent De Paul Society

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul was founded in 1833 by Frederic Ozanam. The mission of the Vincentians is to be “A network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.”

Locally, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul provides financial assistance to the poor in several ways. They may help those with a delinquent utility bill, usually to avoid having their service shut off, with rent, with gas for their vehicle in order to get to a job, and/or with emergency food supplies. Also, depending on the need of the individual requesting help, a Vincentian member may take that person shopping for work clothes, a winter coat, medicine, and help with locating furniture or appliances for an apartment. Each individual requesting assistance works with a member of the Society in order to receive personal and spiritual assistance in their time of need. This fulfills the Vincentian mission of seeking personal relationships with and service to the poor. The volunteer members can guide the person they are working with to locate services provided in Lawrence County with the hope of finding a long-term solution to their financial difficulties or unemployment.

Funding for providing assistance comes in various forms, mostly by donations. When there is a fifth Sunday during the month, an extra collection is taken up in the city parishes. The local Society receives financial support from Bequeaths, Walk for the Poor, funds raised from donations of clothing and shoes in the Blue Bins located at St. Joseph the Worker, St. Camillus, St. Vincent de Paul worship sites,  an indoor bin at St. James the Apostle site as well as fundraising by Vincentian members.