In 1833, a brilliant young law student, Frederick Ozanam, was so appalled by the condition of the poor in Paris, especially during the plague of 1832, that he organized 6 other students into a society dedicated to serving those in need. They visited their homes, providing emergency food, clothing, comfort, and spiritual guidance. He worked with the society his entire life. When he died in 1853, the society had expanded into France, Ireland, England, US, Mexico, and Canada. Today, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international lay organization in 153 countries.
Who We Are In Hamilton-Hamilton West
We are volunteer members, grouped into conferences located within parish boundaries across Hamilton and Hamilton West. Conferences are the grass roots of the society. We have deep roots and conferences that have provided care for more than 150 years. We have a proud tradition of providing services needed as much now, as in Ozanam’s time in the 1800’s.
Hamilton-Hamilton West serve our local, national, and international neighbours-in-need. We provide food, clothing, support for shelters/homes, and assist with education for youth and adults to break the cycle of poverty. We provide food to Coral Harbour, an Inuit community in the far North, and share prayers and financial resources with our “Twin” conferences in South and Central America.
We serve all in need with love, respect, justice and joy, irrespective of faith, culture, gender or political views.
