Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads men and women to join together to grow spiritually by offering assistance to those in need or suffering.  Stella Maris is blessed with community generosity and support making it possible for us to share with those less fortunate or in need of emergency financial or other assistance. An essential principle of the Society’s work is providing help while maintaining the confidentiality and dignity of those who are served.  No distinction is made in those served because Vincentians see the face of Christ in all.

There are two types of membership in the Society.  “Active” members attend monthly meetings, interview those requesting assistance to assess needs, make recommendations on financial support and/or provide referrals to appropriate local resources, take one-month rotations monitoring the Helpline cellular phone, coordinate monthly collections, and participate in various other hands-on projects.  “Associate” members periodically help with monthly collections after Masses and participate as needed in special activities.

What we do is unique in that the situation and needs of every person and family we help is different.  We depend on PRAYER, our guidelines, common sense, life experiences, and sharing our thoughts and concerns with the group – always in confidence.  In addition, new active members receive an orientation, special materials, and lots of “OJT.” Vincentians always go in pairs when visiting homes or meeting clients, and new members always go with seasoned members.

Help is available for registered parishioners and for non-parishioners living on Sullivans Island, Isle of Palms, or Goat or Dewees Islands.  Some of the services we provide are:

• Food vouchers

• Emergency transportation

• Rent or mortgage assistance

• Utility payment assistance

• Medical expense assistance

If you would like more information about joining the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, OR, if you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please call our Helpline at
(843) 814-1229.  All calls will be returned within 24 hours and are completely confidential.