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Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA Hires Ingrid Delgado as National Director of Public Policy and Advocacy
Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA Hires Ingrid Delgado as National Director of Public Policy and Advocacy 1703 2560 SVDP USA

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA (SVdP USA) has hired Ingrid Delgado as its National Director of Public Policy and Advocacy as the organization seeks to raise the profile of key issues, including efforts to prevent homelessness and protect the most vulnerable.

Delgado most recently worked at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops as Associate Director of Government Relations and, before then, as a domestic policy advisor. She previously worked as Associate Director of Social Concerns and Respect Life for the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops; as a language arts teacher at an alternative high school; and in youth outreach and refugee resettlement programs for Catholic Charities of Central Florida.

Delgado’s extensive volunteer work has included living in San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, as a missionary; youth ministry and catechesis; as well as serving as a board member of Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, the Florida Pregnancy Care Network, and Hogar CREA International’s Florida Chapter.

Delgado earned her BA at the University of Central Florida and her MPA at Florida State University. She resides in Virginia with her husband of 24 years and their three children.

SVdP USA CEO Michael Acaldo said, “Ingrid is a magnificent choice for this newly created role. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is increasing our efforts to advocate policymakers on behalf of those we serve, and we’re confident in Ingrid’s ability to lead those efforts and enact positive change for those living in poverty.”

“I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to join the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, especially in this pivotal moment of launching an office in our nation’s capital,” noted Delgado. “I have long been inspired by the Society’s dedication to serving the people in our communities who are most in need. I look forward to working with the Vincentians and those whom they serve to bring SVdP’s perspective and experience to members of Congress and better inform policy making that impacts our most marginalized brothers and sisters.”

Delgado’s role will be based out of SVdP USA’s second National Office, located in Washington, DC, and opening April 4.

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SVdP National President John Berry Statement on US Department of Agriculture Cuts
SVdP National President John Berry Statement on US Department of Agriculture Cuts 1920 1920 SVDP USA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) sudden decision to eliminate $1.5 billion in food purchase programs for schools and food banks is a troubling step backward for our country. This move directly harms families and individuals, especially at a time when food prices remain high and food insecurity is rising.

While we recognize the Administration’s authority to address wasteful government spending, these programs were anything but wasteful. A review may be reasonable, but total elimination is devastating. These initiatives put food on dining tables, ensured low-income children were fed, and kept food pantry shelves stocked for those in need — across both red and blue states, alike.

The elimination of the Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program, and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program will create a massive gap that nonprofit organizations on the front lines of the nation’s food insecurity crisis cannot possibly fill.

Some may argue that these programs — initially launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic — are no longer necessary. However, food insecurity has not recovered from the economic shocks of 2020 – 21 and the ongoing impacts of inflation on working American families. In fact, the problem continues to worsen, leaving more people struggling to access the food they need.

The USDA’s own data paints a stark picture of the nation’s food insecurity crisis. From 2020 to 2024, the all-food Consumer Price Index rose by 23.6% — a reality all too familiar to families struggling to put food on the table. In 2023, more than 18 million households were classified as food insecure, according to the latest USDA Household Food Security Report. This represented 13.5% of U.S. households, a sharp increase from 12.8% in 2022 and 10.2% in 2021.

At the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA (SVdP), we have deep expertise in addressing food insecurity and the way it can lead to homelessness. Ranked by Forbes magazine as the 59th largest nonprofit in the U.S. as ranked by Forbes Magazine, we provided $1.7 billion in services last year to more than five million people.

As a leader in the fight to prevent homelessness and to care for our most vulnerable populations, we urge the USDA to convene a gathering of organizations to provide our perspective and to seek solutions that work to keep people fed. We come with open minds, compassionate hearts and a commitment to collaboration to seek solutions, and we trust the USDA will act in similar good faith to alleviate the suffering of those living on the margins.

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A Midyear Meeting to Remember in St. Louis
A Midyear Meeting to Remember in St. Louis 2560 1707 SVDP USA

Vincentians from all across the United States gathered together March 5-8 in downtown St. Louis at the Midyear Business Meeting of SVdP USA. While in attendance, leaders learned about governance, leadership, advocacy, and finance, while renewing and deepening shared spirituality and friendships with one another. More than 200 leaders were in attendance, representing all nine regions and hundreds of SVdP Conferences.

National President John Berry welcomed members with his Presidential Address on Thursday with this speech. He began his address in this way: “Every night, more than a half a million people in America experience homelessness. Imagine walking past them knowing they are someone’s mother, father, or child. As Vincentians, we cannot simply walk by — we are called to act. As Vincentians, and as Christians, we understand our profound responsibility to act boldly in service to others.”

Other highlights included Director David Garcia’s update on the SoCal wildfire relief efforts, Archbishop Andrew Bellisario CM’s spiritual retreat, a Good Governance workshop with John Hallissy, and a Finance Presentation by Ed McCarthy.

To make our meeting times together more effective, SVdP USA is moving away from the Midyear Meeting starting in 2026. Instead, SVdP will focus on regional meetings and meetings of other affinity groups, including Executive Directors, Stores, Spiritual Advisors, Conference Presidents, and more.

See below for highlights of last week’s Midyear Meeting, and view video presentations here.

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02-06-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
02-06-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Very unsettling news that became public this week has sent a shockwave through the Catholic charitable community. As it impacts one the largest and most important Catholic international aid organizations, it demands reflection and a realization of how policy that might appear to address one issue can have devastating impact on innocents.

Catholic Relief Services, CRS, is bracing for massive cuts — as much as 50% this year — because of draconian reductions in U.S. foreign assistance ordered by the new administration.

CRS is the top recipient of funds for foreign aid to support people in need around the world, aid which the administration has targeted with a spending freeze. Layoffs have already begun, as CRS has been forced to begin shutting down programs, as close to half of the organization’s $1.5 billion budget has been slashed. The cuts would amount to one of the biggest blows ever to CRS, founded in 1943 by Catholic bishops in the United States to serve World War II survivors in Europe. CRS reaches more than 200 million people in 121 countries on five continents.

This is a tragic outcome for people around the world who rely on CRS and others who believe in the call of Christ to ‘love your neighbor’ for survival. It is important that we pray for our sisters and brothers at CRS who are doing God’s work as they go through this turmoil, that we pray for the innocents who will suffer because of these actions, and for an understanding by policymakers of the universal impact of their actions and a consideration of all impacted by those actions before they are taken.

This is not about politics. Politicians get elected and they have a right to enact the policies that they ran on and were elected on. No, this is about morality and doing what is right. This is about not cutting off your head because you have a cold. This is about not blowing up your house because your sink leaks. This is about thinking about the impact of your actions before you take them.

There is no excuse for making the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and the sick suffer while you ‘study’ the massive expenditures of the federal government. If there is waste, identify where, and cut it. You’ll be applauded. Don’t shut down vital lifesaving aid to millions while you look — people die that way. Look first, act second.

This is about the fact that we, as Christians, believe that caring for the poor, the homeless, the sick, and the elderly is not just a moral duty. It’s a divine mandate from God and Jesus. This obligation is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible and the example set by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry.

The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize the importance of helping those in need. In the Old Testament, God commands His people to care for the less fortunate. For instance, in Deuteronomy 15:11, it is written, “For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore, I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.'” This verse highlights the perpetual presence of poverty and the continuous need for generosity and compassion.

The teachings of Jesus in the New Testament further reinforce this obligation. Jesus’ ministry was marked by His compassion for the marginalized and the suffering. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus speaks about the final judgment and identifies Himself with the needy. We know that this passage underscores the idea that serving the needy is equivalent to serving Christ Himself.

Moreover, the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates the call to love and care for others, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Samaritan’s actions demonstrate that true neighborly love transcends social and ethnic boundaries and is characterized by mercy and compassion.

The early Christian community also exemplified this mandate. In Acts 2:44-45, it is recorded that “all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” This communal sharing and support for the needy were foundational to the early Church’s identity and mission.

So too do Governments have a fundamental obligation to support those in need during policy making. This responsibility is rooted in the principles of life, liberty, justice, and the common good. Effective governance requires that policies are designed to uplift the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities and opportunities for a better life.

Historically, U.S. governmental entities (both Republican and Democratic) have reached out to Catholic organizations in order to deliver social services more effectively and efficiently. America has a profound moral obligation to support those in need, both domestically and globally. This responsibility stems from the nation’s values of justice, compassion, and leadership. As a global leader, the United States has the capacity and resources to make a significant impact on alleviating suffering worldwide.

Moreover, America’s history of humanitarian aid reflects its commitment to global welfare. The Marshall Plan, for instance, helped rebuild Europe after World War II, demonstrating the nation’s dedication to fostering stability and prosperity beyond its borders. By supporting those in need globally, America not only fulfills its moral obligations but also promotes peace, stability, and goodwill. This approach fosters international cooperation and strengthens global partnerships, ultimately contributing to a more just and peaceful world.

In summary, Christians are called to care for the poor, the homeless, the sick, and the elderly as a reflection of God’s love and compassion. This mandate is not merely a suggestion, but a fundamental aspect of Christian discipleship, rooted in the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus Christ. By serving those in need, Christians fulfill their divine obligation and embody the love of Christ in the world.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
SVdP National President

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Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA President John Berry Statement on Federal Funding Freeze
Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA President John Berry Statement on Federal Funding Freeze 1920 1920 SVDP USA
By John Berry, National President, SVdP USA

While a federal judge has temporarily blocked a White House move to freeze federal grants and loans, the Society of St. Vincent DePaul USA (SVdP) remains deeply concerned about the impact this action could have on the most vulnerable of our population.

SVdP acknowledges and respects the right of the President and his Administration to implement policies that he campaigned on, but at the same time, millions of low-income Americans depend on federal assistance for rent, food and other assistance to stave off poverty and homelessness. Even a temporary disruption to this funding will likely result in hardworking people being forced out of their homes at a time when homelessness across the country is already on the rise.

As one of the nation’s largest organizations dedicated to preventing homelessness, SVdP urges the White House to take a more discerning and equitable approach to ensure that vulnerable families remain housed. We also call on the Administration to recognize that high rates of poverty and homelessness are unacceptable and represent a crisis of conscience for our nation.

We can debate policies, but first we must open our eyes and hearts to the suffering around us and then change the systems that perpetuate poverty by advocating for affordable housing, living wages and access to quality education and healthcare. Therefore, we ask the Administration to immediately lift the freeze on funding and begin good faith discussions to determine how their goals can be achieved without creating greater suffering among the innocent, whose lives rely on the support of these government programs.

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Home Visit Highlight: SVdP Delivers Hope for the Holidays to Long Island Family
Home Visit Highlight: SVdP Delivers Hope for the Holidays to Long Island Family 1198 1198 SVDP USA

Home Visit Highlight: SVdP Delivers Hope for the Holidays to Long Island Family 

No family deserves to spend the holidays sharing one mattress on the floor of their apartment.

Josephine Melton-McGovern and Marianne Simpson, two volunteers for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, couldn’t believe what they saw last November when they first stepped inside the apartment of a family of four in Long Island. The room was barren—no furniture in sight, just a single mattress where the mother, father, and their two young children, a two-year-old and a four-month-old, all slept together.

“I saw it as a safety issue, especially for the four-month-old,” said Josephine. “I explained it to the mother, and she was all ears. She understood what I was saying.”

That same day, Josephine and Marianne helped deliver a donated portable crib for the baby. The next day, they stocked the family’s shelves with food and drawers with clothing. Within three days, the family’s apartment was fully furnished with a new mattress, box spring, and frame, along with blankets, sheets, pillows, two dressers, a sofa, end tables, a coffee table, and a kitchen table with chairs.

Two days later, the family also enjoyed a real Thanksgiving dinner, thanks to a turkey and fixings provided by SVdP.

“All [the mother] kept saying was ‘Thank you! Thank you!’ They were so grateful. We were so glad they had a nice Thanksgiving – I was so worried about that.”

As part of their Vincentian charism, Josephine and Marianne serve families like this every day. They know that a lack of bare necessities is the grim reality for many who have lost their homes or are on the brink of homelessness. This family had recently moved out of a shelter and into an apartment—a success story in the minds of many organizations. But they had also lost all their belongings due to a roach infestation.

Marianne and Josephine visited the family as part of a Home Visit Encounter, a core tenet of SVdP’s work. In the Home Visit, Vincentians go in pairs to visit those they serve. In doing so, they are able to assess the family’s situation in a way that many other charitable organizations are not. Because of that Home Visit, Marianne and Josephine were able to discern that the family needed more than just a new mattress.

Michael Bedell, president of the St. Frances Cabrini Conference for SVdP, learned of the Long Island family’s needs from a questionnaire they filled out on the organization’s website. He then gave them a call to get more information and schedule a Home Visit. The family is one of 65 that he and his Conference have administered Home Visits for in the last year.

“We’re calling each family and are basically saying to them, ‘Is there anything we can do for you during the holidays?’” said Michael. “It might be a ham, it could be a toy, it could be anything … but we try to put those touches on people so they can have a good holiday. We also recognize that Christmas can’t end in December. It’s got to go all year round.”

And it does. Every day, SVdP Councils and Conferences all over the globe are helping individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness – through services such as rent and utility assistance, shelters, food pantries, thrift stores, pharmacies and medical clinics, and much more.

For Marianne, the Home Visits particularly hit home.

“I feel so fortunate to help because I’ve been in that situation – I raised five children on my own,” Marianne said. “I know what it’s like to have to reach out, go to the church, go to social services – all of those things. The more people that I can help to not have to go through that, the more it makes me feel good.”

SVdP USA flips the traditional model of a nonprofit in the homelessness services sector. Instead of vulnerable individuals having to go out and seek things like food, clothing, and support, SVdP’s Vincentian volunteers come to them via the Home Visit, providing tangible assistance, a listening ear, and friendship.

Bedell says it’s the instinct of a Vincentian to go out and serve.

“We all do it from our hearts with no expectations,” he said. “But when we give, we also receive back. We all close our eyes at night knowing that we changed a life. There is no better feeling in the world and it is a feeling more people should seek.”

 

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Meet Michael Acaldo, CEO
Meet Michael Acaldo, CEO 2048 2048 SVDP USA

From the Bayou to CEO: Meet Michael Acaldo

MICHAEL ACALDO KNEW NOTHING ABOUT THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL when he applied to lead SVdP Baton Rouge. He was graduating from Louisiana State University and just looking for a job. His father filled him in on the details.

“By some miracle, they decided to give the opportunity to someone with no real experience,” he says. Thirty-four years and 11 months later, it’s safe to say that things worked out well.

What Michael noticed right away was that his experience of knowing very little about SVdP was not uncommon. “The Society has been in Baton Rouge since 1865 . . .but there was not much public branding relative to what they did.”

Michael understood that raising awareness of SVdP was essential — both for raising funds and more importantly, for reaching people in need. “Part of the Vincentian spirit is one of humility. But it’s critical you get the word out because that’s what evangelizes for your organization!” he exclaims. “You rob people of that gift if you’re not open about [your work].”

Over the next few decades, Michael’s mission was to help SVdP Baton Rouge become a leader — in providing hot meals, establishing a comprehensive sheltering program, and working with SVdP Conferences all across the region to prevent homelessness. Under his watch, the Baton Rouge Council was SVdP’s first Council in the country to start a foundation and the first to have a community pharmacy. But he also made it a top priority to make sure that the public knew what SVdP was doing. Michael ran major campaigns with all the local television and radio stations over the years, building a reputation around the region that led to sustained fundraising success.

“WE WERE SO BLESSED TO SERVE CHRIST!” he reflects. “Some days we would serve 500 people in our dining room – that’s an opportunity to serve Christ 500 times. And it’s so uplifting to be a witness to 1,500 volunteers helping those in need each month. Both the Vincentian family and those we were blessed to serve — they both touched my soul and my heart.”

Now as the new CEO of SVdP USA, it’s this heart of Christian service that has kept him grounded. “Humility and spiritual growth are the foundation of everything we do,” he says. “And the more we grow spiritually, the more we realize we have to grow.” With God’s grace, SVdP will surely grow under his careful stewardship.

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SVdP Supporters Walk for the Poor in Anderson, Indiana
SVdP Supporters Walk for the Poor in Anderson, Indiana 800 800 SVDP USA

Even the after-effects of Hurricane Helene couldn’t stop SVdP Anderson, Indiana from hosting their annual Friends of the Poor Walk last September. “This event is the centerpiece of our fundraising for the year,” explains Becky, the event organizer, “so we weren’t going to cancel. When we saw the weather forecast, our local high school allowed us to move into the gym.”

“We start working on the event in March. Everything is done by volunteers — 81 of us in total. It’s a fundraising walk and a family festival, a chance for the community to come together and support neighbors who are struggling.”

More than 250 people attended, and 175 took part in the Walk. “It was a fantastic day,” Becky continues. “We had activities for kids and adults, including bounce houses, carnival games, balloon artists, and free ice cream.” A gift basket auction, 50/50 raffle, and an overflowing concession stand increased their overall fundraising. “We raised over $48,000 that will support our rent and utility assistance programs,” Becky says.

SVdP Anderson, IN serves a community with a poverty rate double the state average. Many people come to their Council for help because there are not sufficient services in the areas where they live. “Most of what we raise goes towards rental assistance, so people don’t lose their housing. Several of the families we work with are so far behind in payments that they’re facing eviction. We also help people catch up on gas
and utility bills. We are only open three hours a day, two days a week, but our all-volunteer staff served 1,870 families over the last 12 months.”

“I AM PROUD OF HOW OUR COUNCIL SERVES THE COMMUNITY,” SAYS BECKY. “WITH THE HELP OF OUR DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS, WE DISTRIBUTED $176,200 OF FINANCIAL AID, HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, AND EMERGENCY FOOD TO OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED THIS YEAR.”

Thank you for helping our local Councils serve their communities well! Together we are Serving in Hope and bringing the love of Christ to those who need it most.

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In the Spotlight: Young Vincentians John Paul and Francis Brissette
In the Spotlight: Young Vincentians John Paul and Francis Brissette 500 500 SVDP USA

JOHN PAUL AND FRANCIS BRISSETTE GREW UP IN RHODE ISLAND WATCHING THEIR MOM WORK WITH HER LOCAL SVDP COUNCIL. Learning about Blessed Frédéric Ozanam was an inspiration for the brothers.

“Frédéric founded the Society of St. Vincent de Paul when he was just a student,” Francis says. “He and his friends ignored people who said young people couldn’t make a difference and they got to work serving the poor.” Motivated by Ozanam’s example, John Paul and Francis helped start “Necessities for Neighbors” through the SVdP Rhode Island Council. Youth volunteers fill bags with essential items like soap and shampoo, and a handwritten note of encouragement. These bags are distributed by Vincentians on their Home Visits to individuals and families in need.

“We saw how SVdP Vincentians throughout America share the same heart for service.”

But the brothers wanted to do more. “We had a unique set of skills to offer SVdP,” John Paul says. “We could help spread their message
more effectively on social media, especially to people of our generation.”

The brothers’ @Franchismo10 account was already well-established on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, and their creative videos regularly garnered millions of views. “We partnered with SVdP USA to highlight their work on social media,” Francis explains. “We pretty much lived on a plane for a year and a half, visiting Councils around the country and telling their stories to an online audience.”

The brothers knew they could help SVdP, but they had no idea how much they would learn along the way. “We saw how SVdP Vincentians throughout America share the same heart for service,” John Paul says. “But communities are unique, and it was incredible to see each Council tailoring its activities to meet the specific needs of their neighbors.”

“In Arizona, we helped Vincentians hand out water, something our Conference in Rhode Island doesn’t do,” Francis continues. “But that was a pressing need for that community. In Baltimore, they offer culinary lessons to help people build skills for employment. We saw firsthand how SVdP Councils have the flexibility to do what is necessary for the people they serve.”

Though they’re relatively young, John Paul and Francis are long-time Vincentians — “It was our dream!”— and are working to connect
young people to the organization. John Paul was recently given the SVdP Youth Service award and is Vice Chair of his Conference.

“There is a misconception that today’s youth won’t get involved,” Francis says, “but our generation is passionate about developing creative solutions to meet the needs of those around us. People our age need to be invited to share their time and talents. We can’t write big donation checks, but we can carry boxes of supplies up three flights of stairs!”

“SVdP gave us a reason to serve,” John Paul says. “We saw the face of Christ in all the Vincentians we worked with, and we want to share that opportunity with our peers. Christ calls people of every age to put their faith into action by serving their neighbors in need.”

YOU CAN SEE THE BROTHERS’ VIDEOS ON INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, AND FACEBOOK AT @SVDPUSA AND @SVDPRI.

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The Pillar feature: For SVDP, preventing homelessness begins with home visits
The Pillar feature: For SVDP, preventing homelessness begins with home visits 623 594 SVDP USA

The Pillar feature: For SVDP, preventing homelessness begins with home visits

Published in The Pillar Catholic media project on December 30, 2024 by Laura Loker

The statistics surrounding homelessness in America are sobering.

The number of Americans experiencing homelessness increased 12% from 2022 to 2023. Some research even estimates that as many as 3 in 4 Americans will experience poverty or near poverty in their lifetimes.

Meanwhile, more than two-thirds of Americans are “very concerned” about housing costs, and nearly three-quarters are likewise concerned about the prices of food and consumer goods.

To Michael Acaldo, the new CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, such statistics are calls to action.

Acaldo, who began the position in October, comes to the society’s national council from its Baton Rouge, Louisiana council. There he spent nearly 35 years building up large-scale efforts like its five emergency shelters, charitable pharmacy (which gives away prescription medications at no cost) and dining room (which serves free hot meals).

Now, he hopes to raise awareness of the society’s work.

“Although we want to embrace that humility that Christ calls us to, we also have to evangelize about what we’re doing so people can become a part of our mission,” Acaldo told The Pillar. “Because the needs today are much greater than they were just five years ago.”

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul originated in France in the early nineteenth century. Moved to help the poor he saw in Paris, 20-year-old university student Frédéric Ozanam founded the “Conference of Charity” with a few friends in 1833.

Soon after, the group adopted St. Vincent de Paul, servant of the poor and marginalized, as their patron and namesake. In 1845 the society made its way to the United States — beginning in St. Louis, Missouri, where the national council remains today.

The country’s 90,000 members — who call themselves “Vincentians” — belong to over 4,000 local parish conferences. Each individual conference works together to respond to the needs of its local community, which can range from food to furniture to emergency funds.

Catholics not directly involved with the organization often perceive it solely as its most visible outreach, Bob Glavin, president of St. Mary of the Assumption conference in Springboro, Ohio, told The Pillar. In the broader Dayton area, where he lives, most people know the organization for their two large emergency shelters.

But while homeless shelters are important — indeed, the society operates many across the country — their priority is homelessness prevention, Acaldo explained.

“Homeless prevention is something that the society has done from its very beginning,” he said.

And their central method, largely unseen by other Catholics in the pews, is the home visit.

Specific responses to specific needs

Today, it works like this: Local conferences operate a hotline that neighbors in need may call. After a neighbor leaves their information on their voicemail, a Vincentian follows up for more details. In many cases, the local conference arranges a visit to the caller’s home to learn more about their situation and how they might help.

Two members — often a man and a woman, said Glavin — begin with a prayer prior to knocking on the door. Then they spend a few minutes with the neighbor, listening and asking questions about what they need and why the crisis arose.

“We’re here to help people get over a temporary situation,” said Glavin, who conducts home visits in his community. Unexpected car repairs or a prolonged illness that precludes working, for example, can leave a neighbor short on rent one month.

Such aid can make or break whether someone falls deeper into the poverty cycle, Acaldo explained.

“When you go out and you make one of these home visits, and you’re helping somebody with groceries, or maybe a portion of a rent payment or an electric bill or a water bill, you really are keeping them housed,” he said.

Indeed, a study from the University of Notre Dame’s Lab of Economic Opportunity found that families offered emergency financial assistance were 81% less likely to become homeless over a six-month period and 73% less likely over a twelve-month period. Such figures also suggest that targeting at-risk populations with emergency assistance can be more cost-effective than waiting until they are experiencing homelessness to intervene.

Conferences are careful, however, to use their resources — which come largely from individual donations — effectively.

“We’re not paying their entire rent bill,” said Glavin. “Normally, we’re paying a portion, and we want to know — is that going to avert the impending eviction? Is that going to put this neighbor on solid ground for a period of time where they can recover, or not?”

Vincentians also have these conversations with landlords and utility companies, whom they pay directly — and only after the tenant has contributed the remaining funds. If the problem is more systemic than spontaneous, wherein one-time assistance will not make a meaningful difference in the individual’s situation, Vincentians direct them to other local social services that may be able to help.

Occasionally, other needs become apparent during home visits. One neighbor, Sam, reached out for help with his utility bill, Glavin said. As they talked, Sam also mentioned that he could no longer push his vacuum cleaner around his small apartment due to a medical condition. He had contacted the county’s elderly services for help, but he was still on a waiting list.

So Glavin and his home visit partner vacuumed the apartment. And they came back several more times to vacuum until Sam told them a family member had stepped in to help.

“No act of charity is foreign to the society,” Glavin explained, quoting the organization’s motto. “So whatever people need, our calling and our ministry is to help if we can.”

Before they leave a home, the pair of Vincentians pray with their neighbor. Sometimes, Glavin said, they tell the individual or family that they’re welcome at their local parish.

Always, they try to be empathetic and supportive. Glavin recalled one visit when a mother was relieved just to be able to talk to someone about her son’s serious medical condition.

“The financial support helps,” he said. “But it’s not always the most important thing.”

‘Paying rent for Christ’

Many people, said Acaldo, believe the society is primarily a social services organization.

“We’re not,” he clarified. “We’re a spiritual organization. We are called to come together to grow spiritually in the great blessing of serving our neighbors in need.”

The spiritual emphasis, he said, is “truly very powerful.”

“When we go out to visit somebody, we knock on Christ’s door,” Acaldo continued. “We’re bringing groceries for Christ. We’re paying rent for Christ, and we’re encountering Christ and seeing Christ in those we are blessed to serve.”

Glavin affirmed that his own faith has grown since he joined the society five years ago, both from his involvement in their service and the example and support of other members.

“We’re acting as Christ would, right?” said Glavin. “I mean, he’s visiting people, he’s talking to people. He’s making friends with people who are not people we normally might encounter.”

Now that he is in a position of national leadership, Acaldo cannot participate in as much direct service. It is an aspect of the transition, he said, that a colleague warned him he might find challenging.

So he and his colleagues at the national council are planning to start quarterly “mission days,” in which they’ll partner with local Vincentians to do on-the-ground service to “stay in touch with who we are and what we’re about.”

“I think it’s always important, if you’re in an administrative-type role, that you keep that focus,” he said.

According to the society’s annual report, American Vincentians visited 1.8 million neighbors and offered $1.7 billion worth of services in the 2023 fiscal year. Their impact, Acaldo said, is “huge.”

“But we want to multiply that,” said Acaldo. “We want to multiply that and be able to bring God’s love to those who truly need that helping hand up.”

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