Who we are:
We are a group of students and young professionals who want to grow in Christ by serving the Madison community where it needs it most. We hope to follow in Christ's footsteps by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, giving drink to the thirsty, and giving friendship to the lonely. We meet to pray together and form a community.
A conference is simply a branch of The Society at a particular parish or in a particular area. Our conference is based in the St. Paul's Catholic Church community, and is affiliated with UW-Madison since we are a Student Organization. Absolutely anyone is welcome to join though.
What is SVdP? Who was SVdP?
A LITTLE HISTORY:
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul was founded by Blessed Frederick Ozanam in France in 1833.
Frederick Ozanam was a young scholar who, along with some friends, believed that it was his duty as a Catholic to unpretentiously provide relief to the most impoverished. They named their small group after a saint who they felt embodied the qualities and charity toward the poor they were hoping to demonstrate.
The Society expanded! Today, there are over 800,000 members worldwide and branches in 150 countries! Branches typically aim to serve their communities through Food Pantry, Pharmacy, clothing, and housing services. Members can also conduct Home Visits, which are a tangible representation of the essence of the Society. A Home Visit is when you meet someone who has a need where they live and provide what you can, whether it be resources or simply an ear.
Saint Vincent de Paul, Madison
Dane County has an incredibly active St. Vincent de Paul, known in sum as the District Council of Madison, Inc., Society of St. Vincent de Paul. We offer a variety of resources for people in need. If you are interested in learning more these sites, contact us or go to https://svdpmadison.org/
The Food Pantry
2033 Fish Hatchery Road, Madison, WI, 53713
This food pantry is one of the largest in the area and uses a point system so one can shop for a week's worth of groceries. It is located at the Service Center.
Interested in volunteering or utilizing these resources?
Sign up to serve a meal at The Port or help at the Food Pantry with our UW Conference here. Transportation provided!
OR
Serve with your own group or individually by filling out a volunteer application form at https://svdpmadison.org/