The Society of St. Vincent de Paul: A Catholic Mission of Service, Faith, and Compassion

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic lay organization committed to serving

those in need through personal relationships and acts of compassion. Rooted in Gospel

values, SVdP is a network of volunteers —called Vincentians—who grow spiritually by

offering person-to-person assistance to neighbors facing hardship.

A Legacy of Service

The Society’s origins trace back to Paris in 1833, when Frédéric Ozanam, a young law

student, responded to a challenge to demonstrate the Church’s commitment to the poor.

He and a group of friends formed a “conference of charity.” The group soon adopted the

name “The Society of St. Vincent de Paul” in honor of St. Vincent de Paul, a priest

renowned for his tireless service to the poor and marginalized. Just twelve years after

its founding, the Society crossed the Atlantic to America. In 1845, St. Louis, Missouri,

became home to the first official American conference.

Faith in Action

The Society’s work is deeply Catholic at its core. What sets SVdP apart is its deeply

personal, unique approach. The most important thing we do is also the simplest: we listen.

Vincentian volunteers are parishioners and neighbors who feel called to serve. Rather than asking people to come to them, Vincentians visit individuals in their homes, listening to their stories and offering support tailored to their unique situations. Whether it’s help with shelter, food, utilities, clothing, household goods or simply a kind word and

prayer, the goal is always the same: to be the face of Christ to them and see the face of

Christ in them.

Quiet Work, Big Impact

The Society’s work is intentionally discreet. There are no long lines or public

displays—just quiet visits, heartfelt conversations, and compassionate assistance.

Vincentians offer help without judgment, believing that personal relationships are the

key to lasting change.

Over time, SVdP has expanded its reach through programs like its Thrift Stores. These

stores offer affordable goods—from furniture and clothing to beds and household items.

Every purchase supports the mission, generating revenue to fund programs for those in

need. The stores also provide free items to families recovering from hardships and

crises such as evictions, natural disasters, or domestic violence. Through home visits,

Vincentians identify needs and offer vouchers for essentials, helping families create

safe, comfortable living spaces.

Get Help

If you or someone you know needs assistance, SVdP is here to help. The Society

recommends contacting your community Catholic church and ask if they have a Society

of St. Vincent de Paul or searching the internet for “Society of St. Vincent de Paul” and

the name of your city/town.

Gena Bast serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications for The Society of

St. Vincent de Paul, Archdiocesan Council of St. Louis. In the St. Louis area, more than

2,600 Vincentians serve in more than 110 Catholic parishes, quietly living out Christ’s

call to care for “the least of these.” For 180 years, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in St.

Louis has been more than a charity—it’s a community of faith, friendship, and hope.