The St Vincent de Paul (SVDP) Society has launched a National Recovery Appeal to help the increasing numbers of individuals and families struggling from the impact of Covid-19.

The Appeal is being launched this week and will run until December. The goal is to raise $4 million to provide people with economic, social and emotional support during these times of severe hardship, says SVDP National President Marlena Hoeft-Marwick.

St Vincent de Paul Society Wellington (Vinnies) has adapted its welfare and support services to provide essential service packs to individuals and families struggling throughout the COVID-19 Level 4 lock-down.

As a sole parent of four children, they had experienced health issues since moving into a social housing home.

On November 17, in line with Pope Francis’ call to promote the Second World Day of the Poor, Vinnies chapters in the wider Wellington region held free stores, providing thousands of items of clothes free of charge to those in need.

We are delighted to share that we are successful applicants of a $5000 Nikau Foundation grant - Kevin & Julia O’Connor Endowment Fund.

The challenge for the coming year will be to maintain a consistent service while putting into effect the changes that offer more choice for clients and more effective support throughout all areas of food parcels, pregnancy assistance, and social advocacy and advice. 

One of the main ways that poverty manifests is through food insecurity. Many households in New Zealand do not have the means to provide food for themselves, or their families. As food is crucial for healthy development, and providing the energy to pursue an active and productive life, it is vital to address this issue as one of urgency. If an individual does not have the basic means necessary to pursue opportunities, it is unlikely that they will be able to escape poverty.

Pregnancy Assistance is one of the many free, professional support services the team at St Vincent de Paul Society in Wellington offers. Started in the early 2000s, it continues to provide an invaluable service to Wellington mothers and their babies.

"He told me that all he had was three bags of clothes, a mattress and a rice cooker.”

‘I love fashion and I want a career in it.’ Re Sew is an opportune milestone which fits into her big picture. She has already learnt a variety of skills, especially making clothes for herself and her children.