St. Vincent de Paul Society

of St. Joseph County

Mission Statement

Inspired by Gospel values, the St. Vincent de Paul Society brings people together in prayer and in person-to-person service to those who are in need and suffering - providing food, clothing and financial assistance to families in our community. Vincentians witness God's love by embracing all works of charity and justice, and collaborate with others who share this vision. The Society's mission is supported by a Thrift Store that sells gently used clothing, furniture, household items, appliances and collectibles.

SERVICES

At St. Vincent de Paul, we offer assistance to needy families in the South Bend Community through food, clothing and furniture assistance, emergency financial assistance, and our Christmas Basket Outreach Program.

Food, Clothing, and Furniture Assistance

The St. Vincent de Paul Society provides food, clothing and furniture assistance to individuals and families in need of these items through person-to-person contact in the home or individual consultation at the Assistance Office. Volunteers visit families and get to know them, and through this process, discern what kind of assistance they need. Once we determine the needs, we are able to offer food, clothing and household goods. Food from our pantry of donated items, clothing for all ages and sizes including infants, toddlers, children, teenagers, adults and seniors, and beds and furniture are all available by calling (574) 234-6211 for more information and to set up and appointment for consultation.

2008 Christmas Program

Applications for Christmas baskets will be taken Oct. 20 through Nov. 14, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

When you apply, you must bring with you:
A picture ID
Proof of address (such as a utility bill, a lease or other official document)
Social Security card for head of household
Birth certificates for each child who will be receiving toys

Everyone who qualifies will receive food for a holiday meal and toys for children up to 12 years old. (Clients who apply for a Christmas basket from more than one nonprofit agency in St. Joseph County will be disqualified.)

Emergency Financial Assistance

St. Vincent's provides assistance to individuals and families suffering financial hardship through the Stone Soup Community. Stone Soup is available to help understand what kind of assistance is needed. Once they determine the needs, we are able to offer emergency financial assistance, such as help with rent or utilities. To receive help, call (574) 246- 0364 if you live in South Bend or 250-1922 if you live in Mishawaka. Our Assistance office is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Christmas Basket Outreach Program

Through this ministry, we bring gift baskets to hundreds of families, who might have no other gifts at Christmas. These baskets include toys, food, clothing and personal items. Employees and many volunteers pack each basket individually and deliver them just before Christmas. To receive a Christmas basket for your family, please contact the Assistance Office in November.

St.Vincent de Paul Society of St. Joseph County