More than 3,800 impoverished neighbors are helped by the Society in San Mateo County every month. Conference members reach out to those in need right in their own community. By becoming a member of your local Conference you can join other Vincentians who share a common concern for the poor and the elderly. You can make a difference!

What does it take to become a Vincentian?
There are three essential elements that guide the Conferences of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of San Mateo:

Service – to establish a personal contact between Vincentians and those who suffer and to bring to the latter the most effective and charitable aid possible. Person-to-person service by our members is what the Society emphasizes

Spirituality – we make an effort to grow spiritually in order to keep the spark of inspiration alive. We encourage others to do so, including other Vincentians, as well as those we serve.

Faith Community – we strive to develop a community of fellowship. The objective of the Society is to develop a bond that goes deeper that just team work. The friendship that is sought is a relationship both among the members as well as with those we serve.

What about meetings?
Members attend Conference meetings usually twice a month. The meetings last about an hour and starts with a prayer, spiritual reading and reflection.  Members then discuss what cases they have handled and any plans for follow-up. Discussion also centers around ways to help SVdP programs.

What types of cases are handled?
Typically, when someone in need comes to the Parish rectory or calls our emergency help line, a member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul will be immediately contacted. The Vincentian will then get in touch with the needy person or family and arrange a home visit to assess the family’s situation. Home visits are always done in pairs. Members never visit someone alone.

What happens at a visit?
If the person needs food, members will put together a food basket with items from their Parish food pantry and/or write a voucher to a local store for fresh produce, diapers, or other basic needs. Vouchers are also provided to our SVdP stores for furniture and clothing. Often the poor are about to be faced with eviction or have their utilities turned off.  Preventing homelessness is the heart of our mission. Vincentians provide referrals to other community based organizations and service providers. We never say “no” and walk away.

How do Vincentians get money to buy things?
In most Parishes, every fifth Sunday’s second collection goes to the Parish Conference. Some conferences also share in the church Poor Box collection. The San Mateo County District Council sends an annual appeal, as well as quarterly newsletters. We are also supported by grants from individuals, foundations and corporations. We depend on the generosity of our neighbors! Click here to make a donation.

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