Organization Highlight
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church has been a beacon of hope and assistance in our community since its establishment in July 2000. This Catholic lay organization, inspired by Gospel values, is dedicated to inspiring men and women to join spiritually by offering services to the needy and suffering. Let's take a closer look at their impactful work and how you can get involved.
Activities and Services
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVdP) 's local chapter provides vital services to assist those in need within our community. They offer support with rent, utility bills, food, and more, ensuring families can access basic necessities. The Society assists families throughout the year, striving to make a positive difference. On average, the chapter supports 6-7 families each month, offering a lifeline to those facing difficult circumstances.
This heartwarming true story illustrates our Society's commitment to helping those in need.
A family traveling from Tennessee to Coushatta for a funeral found themselves stranded when their car broke down, and the repair cost exceeded the vehicle's value. Stranded at a bus station with a baby, they turned to SSVdP for help. The Society provided them with bus tickets to return home and meals, snacks, and drinks for their journey, ensuring they reached their destination safely.
Funding and Donations
The chapter relies solely on the generosity of our parishioners for funding. Donations collected through the Poor Box and the annual fundraiser, Give for Good, held in April and May, are vital to sustaining their operations. You can support the Society's work by placing donations in the Poor Box or mailing checks to the church office.
Events and Fundraisers
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul hosts several events and fundraisers to support its mission. One of the highlights is the **Gifts of Magi** event at Christmas, where the goal is to provide needy children with new clothing, boosting their self-image and promoting positive behaviors. Along with the clothing, each family receives a food box containing a frozen ham or turkey and a family board game. For many children, these are the only new clothes they receive.
The Give for Good fundraiser is another significant event held in April and May each year. It allows the community to participate and contribute to the Society's work.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul collaborates with various organizations to enhance the services provided to families in need. As part of the Western District SSVdP and the National SSVdP, the local chapter occasionally partners with other conferences for mutual assistance. In times of natural disasters, they extend their support to other SSVdP chapters worldwide.
Collaboration with Catholic Charities also plays a vital role in providing comprehensive support to families. By referring families to the Catholic Charities Money School, they help individuals learn budgeting skills and access additional resources, preventing evictions and utility disconnections.
For instance, a mother with three children lost everything when their house burned down. Living in a local motel, they required assistance with a rental deposit and furniture. Through collaboration with several conferences in the Western District, SSVdP was able to help the family secure permanent housing and rebuild their lives.
Challenges and Needs
One of the chapter's biggest challenges is the availability of funds. With an average monthly expenditure of $1500 to assist families, the chapter often collects only $200-$300 per month through the Poor Box. To continue its vital work, the Society seeks monetary donations and participation in the Gifts of Magi Program.
Contact and Communication
If you wish to learn more or get involved with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Mary Queen of Peace, you can reach out to Maria Powell at 318-286-5190. You can also attend their monthly meetings, held on the fourth Thursday of the month at 5:30 PM in the Caplis Building, or contact the church office for more information.
Future Plans
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul remains committed to assisting less fortunate families in our area. Focusing on continuing their impactful work, they strive to make a difference, one family at a time.
A Personal Mission…
Maria Powell, the chapter's president, shares her motivation for being involved with SSVdP:
"While teaching, I became even more aware of how children are affected by their living situation. I knew I wanted to be part of an organization that would help families from being evicted, having their utilities disconnected, or having food on the table. SSVdP is making a difference…one family at a time."
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church exemplifies the power of community and compassion in action. Join them in their mission to bring hope and support to those in need and experience the joy of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Contact:
Maria Powell, President
318- 286-5190