Page 26 - Faith Connections Issue 3

ISSUE 3 OCTOBER 2021

SVDP ACTIVITIES

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVDP) is a worldwide Catholic organization to bring
people together and to grow spiritually by promoting the spirit of poverty and humility.
The SVDP chapter at our East Millstone church was started in 2007 by a small group

devoted to encountering our Lord in a more meaningful way while abiding by the core

values of the International Society. The early members started off by offering one-on-one
services, such as hospital visits and financial support to parishioners in need. As the church

started to grow, SVDP was able to expand and even help communities back home in Kerala.

SVDP strives to support local charities, such as SHIP, a nonprofit organization that
helps people who suffer from homelessness, substance abuse, HIV/Aids, mental health,

neglect, and isolation. The Samaritan Homeless Interim Program (SHIP) was greatly
affected by hurricane IDA and desperately needed help. Therefore, the SVDP is kindly

working to support SHIP by donating one commercial freezer.
SVDP is also fundraising to aid a daily wage worker family in Kerala. The dad sustained

serious injuries while working in a quarry and is no longer able to support his family
financially. The mom finds it challenging to take care of medical expenses and her

children's education with her daily wages. All supporting documents were provided to
the SVDP team.

SVDP has requested to support the “Feeding Hands” organization, a local food pantry in

Somerville, NJ. The SVDP keeps a box labeled “Feeding Hands” in the narthex areas.
They are currently in need of items like grocery bags, diapers, and hygiene items.

“Feeding Hands” is also giving out volunteer opportunities to kids 14 and older;
anyone who is interested, please contact Cynthia Parayil for details.

The SVDP is also planning to update our group activities on the church website. Any
12th graders who are interested in participating should contact their CCD teachers,

trustees, or SVDP leads. Participants will also be eligible for service hours.
The SVDP monthly meetings will be held as a zoom call on Second Sunday at 6 PM until

church activities resume as normal. Please join and share your ideas.

PAGE 26 ROSARY & ALL SAINTS EDITION | ISSUE 3