January 2013
Dear Fellow Parishioners and Supporters,
The members of our Saint Matthew St. Vincent de Paul Conference wish to share with you the accomplishments of this past year, and the 11+ years that our conference has been in existence.
But first, WE THANK YOU, the volunteers and benefactors of our ministry. Did you know that close to 93% of your contributions go directly to assist those in need? During 2012 your donations of $44,985allowed us to support the financial and food ministries that went directly to benefit the underprivileged, the needy, those who have fallen in difficult times due to a variety of reasons, and the hungry residents of Barrow County. Thank you also for donating diapers and clothing to our children’s ministry, as well as donating beds and appliances as the need arises.
Currently, our SVdP Conference is comprised of 26active, dedicated memberswho volunteered over 4,300 hours, drove over 19,800 miles,and made262 person to person visitsduring 2012. Additionally, we supplied food and clothing to over 574 families. We accomplished thisalways offering a few words of encouragement and showing compassion and care for their situation.
ARE YOU AWARE OF THE NEED IN THE AREA THAT WE SERVE?
Since May of 2001, when the St. Matthew SVdP Conference was enacted, 3,058 families have been given aid for a total of $347,637. Your generous gifts have provided assistance to pay rent, power, water, and gas bills, among others. Our food pantry has remained stocked because you have continued to fill and return grocery bagsfull of non-perishable food items.
However, we need more than your financial contributions. We need you. As Jesus said in Luke 10:2, “The harvest is abundant but the workers are few . . .“All you need is the desire to join with others for the love of God, to serve those in need. Just offering a few hours of your time a month would be of great help to our SVdP Ministry.Bilingual? You are very much needed!
Everyone is welcome to attend our monthly meetings, which take place every second Thursday and the fourth Monday of the month at 7PM in Hedges Hall.
The need is, and will continue to be on-going, and we will continue to bring comfort and assistance where needed. If you know of someone that needs help, please leave information on the SVdP Helpline at 770-868-5100. . .
The work of SVdP is the Gospel message in action: I was hungry, I was thirsty, I was a stranger, I was naked, I was sick, I was in prison . . . and YOU CARED.
Thank You and God Bless!
President- Jorge Ascunce Spiritual Director- Dan Buckley Childrens’ Clothing- Kelly Ball
Vice Pres.- Gary Hardesty Treasurer- Peggy Graham . . . And ALL Our Volunteers!
Secretary- Patty Connolly Food Pantry- Anne Needham