Meet the Larson Family…
A desperate plea for help recently reached a SVdP Vincentian from the Sacred Heart Conference, sparking an urgent response. A family of four—two parents and their young children, just 4 and 6 years old—was on the brink of being turned out into the cold by a shelter. Their situation was heartbreaking. The shelter could only keep them until 9am Sunday morning, leaving them to face bitterly cold nights with nowhere to go. That night, temperatures were expected to drop to just 10 degrees—conditions no one, let alone small children, should have to endure.
In that moment of urgency, the Vincentian turned to God, seeking His Divine guidance and asking for His wisdom. He shared the family’s plight with a parishioner at Sacred Heart, and their response was nothing short of inspiring. SVdP was able to cover a portion of the motel bill, so this parishioner offered to cover the remainder of the expense. With their generosity and your support, we secured a motel room for the family for an entire week, providing them with warmth, safety, and hope.
By the grace of God and the kindness of our community, the family was able to move into the shelter a week later. This story is a testament to the vital role your donations and support play. Every prayer, every dollar spent at and donated to SVdP, and every act of generosity fuels our ability to help those in need when it matters most.
January 31, 2025
Meet AnnA….
Anna, a hardworking mother of two, recently moved to a new home in Appleton, seeking a fresh start for her family. But as the colder months approached, she found herself struggling to make ends meet. After a costly car repair strained her finances, Anna reached out to St. Vincent de Paul, hoping for a little help to ensure her children had warm clothes and a place to rest their heads at night.
Two kind-hearted Vincentians from the St. Thomas More Conference visited Anna at her home, taking time to listen to her story and understand her challenges. They saw her resilience and determination, and they knew they could help lighten her load.
With compassion and care, they provided Anna with a voucher to the St. Vincent de Paul thrift store, where she could find a new dresser and clothing for her children. Knowing how crucial a good night's sleep is for little ones, they connected her with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit dedicated to building beds for children in need. Though beds are often scarce, this partnership ensured Anna's children would have a cozy and safe place to sleep.
At St. Vincent de Paul, the spirit of community runs deep. Whether working with Leaven, the Community Clothes Closet, or Sleep in Heavenly Peace, we’re committed to bringing hope to our neighbors in need.
Before the visit ended, the Vincentians brought in bags of groceries, along with essential paper and cleaning supplies—simple gifts that meant the world to Anna and her family. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Anna’s smile reflected the warmth and relief she felt, knowing her community cared for her during this difficult time.
When you donate to St. Vincent de Paul—whether it’s gently used items, a purchase from our Appleton stores, or a monetary gift—you’re doing more than just giving. You’re helping families like Anna’s find hope, comfort, and the chance for a brighter tomorrow. Together, we’re building a community where no one has to face their struggles alone.