Frequently Asked Questions

❓ About Our Mission & Services

What is the Society of St. Vincent de Paul?

We are a 100% volunteer-led Catholic lay organization dedicated to offering direct, person-to-person support to individuals and families in our local community who are experiencing financial hardship or emergency crises.

Who do you help?

We provide emergency assistance to anyone living within Newburyport and Newbury, regardless of their religious affiliation, background, race or age. If you are a neighbor in need, our doors and helpline are open to you.

What kind of assistance do you offer?

Our assistance is tailored to the specific emergency needs of each household. Common areas of help include:

 Housing Stability: Emergency assistance with rent or mortgage shortfalls to prevent eviction.

 Utilities: Direct payment support for overdue electricity, gas, or heating oil bills.

 Food Security: Prepared warm meals through our weekly Breaking Bread dinners and emergency food gift cards or pantry referrals.

 Basic Needs: Vouchers or support for essential clothing, household goods, car repairs and medical co-pays.

📞 Requesting Help

How do I request financial or emergency assistance?

Please call our confidential parish helpline. Leave a clear message with your full name, phone number, town of residence and a brief description of the help you need. A volunteer (Vincentian) will return your call within 24 to 48 hours to begin the confidential consultation process.

Is my request for help kept confidential?

Yes, absolutely. Confidentiality is a core requirement of our ministry. Your personal details, financial situation and story are held in strict confidence and shared only with the specific Vincentians assigned to assist your case.

What happens after I call the helpline?

Two of our volunteers will arrange a follow-up conversation—either over the phone or through a private, comfortable home visit—to listen to your situation, assess your immediate needs and determine how our conference can best support you.

🤝 Getting Involved & Donating

How can I volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul?

We always welcome new hands and compassionate hearts! You can volunteer in several ways:

 Home Visitors / Client Advocates: Meet directly with neighbors in need to assess financial requests.

 Breaking Bread Kitchen Team: Prep, cook, serve, or clean up during our weekly Tuesday night community dinners.

 Behind-the-Scenes Support: Help with administrative tasks, event planning, or donation coordination.

How is my donation used?

Because our organization is run entirely by volunteers, 100% of your financial donations go directly to providing emergency aid—such as utility payments, rent relief and food assistance—for local families and seniors in our neighborhood.