Founded in 1950 by Alden Schroeder and Bill Kolb, this conference of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul has always focused on feeding the hungry among us. Bill and Alden, along with a small but dedicated group of volunteers, personally delivered canned goods and cereals to the poor and elderly within our parish boundaries. All the food delivered was donated by the parish families. Over the years, the program has expanded to provide pantry staples, dairy products, toiletries, and fresh produce to over 50 families, serving over 200 men, women, and children each month.
When funds are available, we are able to help with utility bills and rental assistance, helping keep families safe and in their homes during lean times. We make referrals to outside agencies and government programs when more assistance is needed.
Every child deserves a present at Christmas. Thanks to our generous parishioners, our clients receive presents for their children each December. This last year our parishioners were so generous that birthday presents were provided throughout the year.
Mothers of newborns receive a care package from The Society – diapers, layette items, and a gift card for other necessities. Thanks to St. Clare’s YLI, our children receive school supplies each year.
The homeless along the El Camino also receive assistance from us. Easy to eat foods, gift cards for local restaurants, toiletries, and clothing are provided. Some of our benefactors provide funds and gifts-in-kind specifically for this challenging ministry and it is greatly appreciated.
For over 60 years our team of volunteers has kept this ministry running smoothly. Our thanks to our current and former Vincentians: Alden, Bill, Rocky, Mary, Richard, Sondra, Dinesh, Ramon, Mark, Mike, Patty, Dianne, Cecilia, Linda, Luis, Terri, Jim, Justin, Martin, Marcy, Joy, Tom, Janine, Jean, Julia, Kathryn, Dave, Basil, Mick, and many others. Our thanks to our young volunteers too – Sophia and Sophia, Lucas, Nathan, Tara, Tristan, Ryan, the 8th grade class of St. Clare’s and our high school service volunteers. We couldn’t have done it with out you… we can’t continue to do it without you too!
Almost our entire operating budget comes from our parishioners’ generosity. Every dollar given to the 5th Sunday Second Collection goes straight to our clients’ support. Benefactors over the years have contributed additional funds for special projects and the general fund. In recent years, The Mission City Fund has provided grants to support and expand our programs. The students at St. Clare School have frequent canned food drives that supplement our food pantry – it’s amazing how much they bring us!
Volunteers and visitors are always welcome! Stop by the school parking lot on the second and fourth Saturday each month. Food boxes are packed starting at 8am for clients to pick up at 9:30.
Come see what we do!