St Joseph's Parish

 

The Society of St Vincent de Paul is an independent Catholic lay organisation inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is an International body founded in France over 150 years ago by Frederic Ozanam and it came to New Zealand in 1868.

Members (Vincentians) work in a caring practical and manner to promote human dignity and justice through through personal contact with those in need, hence the motto, “People helping People”.

The Society strives through personal contact, to promote self sufficiency, enabling people to help themselves, while comforting them and assuring them they are not alone.

We carry out our work in the Kapi Mana area that is from Tawa / Porirua to Levin in the Horowhenua.

How we can help

We have a team of volunteers committed to helping our community, no matter how big or small your need is.

How we can help:

The Society connects up those who want to help with those who really need it. Each local Conference of the Society responds to local needs. Our work is carried out by members and volunteers, supported by a small number of professional staff.

Typical works of the Society include:

• Visiting and befriending the elderly

• Visiting people in prison and hospital

• Helping migrant families to settle in the local communities

• Organising Foodbanks

• Helping disadvantaged families with food, doctor and dentist bills

• Advocating on behalf of individuals and groups in need

We also run a network of Vinnies Shops, which offer affordable goods and clothes to the wider community. Vinnies Shops are the public face of the Society and proceeds from the sales of goods go to support disadvantaged people and families.

These free services are responsive and compassionate, provided without judgment or discrimination.

Food Banks

Providing basic food parcels for families and individuals who are in immediate or long term need of assistance.

Where are these? How to access this service?

Advocacy

Helping you get the full assistance you qualify for from Government services.

How to access this service?

Visitation

Providing support, friendship and material assistance to people in prison, hospitals, nursing homes, family homes, homeless and anyone experiencing loneliness.

Home Visitations is one of the oldest services provided by the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. It provides support, friendship and material assistance to people in prison, hospitals, nursing homes, family homes, the homeless and anyone experiencing loneliness.

Our members visit people in their homes, hospitals, nursing homes and prison to help find the most appropriate response to their needs. This can involve a range of activities, from being a supportive listener, catching-up over a coffee, transport, cleaning, helping cook meals and more.

Who can have a visit?

Anyone who is in need of assistance and companionship. This might mean an elderly person in a nursing home, someone unwell in a hospital or those who require in-home support.

How do I get a visit?

Visitation support is predominately provided through our Local Groups. This covers individuals and families from Tawa to Levin.

Donate

Donations of goods and furniture are welcome, as are cash donations.

For cash donations:
Please use our bank account:
WestPac – 03 0547 0885236 000

If you require a receipt for tax purposes, please forward your details using this form.

For donations of goods and furniture:
Please phone 04 237 5968
Or deliver to:
18 Mungavin Ave, Porirua East, during business hours:
9am – 4pm Tuesday to Friday
9am – 3pm Monday & Saturday