St. Vincent de Paul- St. Joseph Conference
at St. Julia Parish

Members of SVDP are men and women who strive to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to neighbors in need. We are part of a worldwide Catholic lay organization whose mission is to end poverty through systemic change. Our activities in our parish focus on two areas:

FOOD PANTRY

The pantry is located at St. Joseph church and is open once a month. We serve 22 families, or 43 people, who receive bags that contain nonperishable foods donated from three sources: parishioner food and monetary donations, donations from other church groups, and about 50% of food comes from the GBFB (Greater Boston Food Bank). Many SVDP volunteers work behind the scenes to ensure that the pantry runs smoothly and meets the needs of its clients. Some provide home deliveries for clients who are disabled or don’t have transportation.

EMERGENCY HELP

We support families and individuals in emergency situations. We make a personal connection, offer support, gather information, and provide referrals to other agencies. Financial support is usually targeted to meet rent or utility payments, heating oil, car repairs, or medications; a sub-committee of members makes decisions on financial assistance.

Meetings: SVDP meets about eight times each year, from 1-2:30 PM, at St. Joseph Church. Subcommittees meet more frequently, as needed.

Challenges and Chief Needs? New members are needed to visit, work with, and help clients. Monetary donations enable SVDP to continue its work, and can always be given through the "Poor Boxes" in our churches. Donations to the food pantry are needed each month. These can be left in the boxes in each church and our parish center. Email Ursula Nowak for information on volunteer opportunities.

Looking for help? Call the parish at 781-899-2611 to get connected to the services of the St. Vincent de Paul society.