SVdP Vincentians form deep connections & lifelong friendships with those they serve.
For over two years, Ashley, a former event planner, struggled to rebuild her life after a mental health crisis left her hospitalized and unable to work. The stress forced her onto disability, drained her savings, and left her in debt. She turned to St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County—and found the support she needed to stay housed and regain stability.
“Thank God I found SVdP,” Ashley said. “They helped me through a really dark time and made me feel like I wasn’t alone.”
Ashley remembered from her church how SVdP volunteers help people in need. With nowhere else to turn, she reached out and was connected with Barb, a SVdP Vincentian volunteer from our conference (branch) at St. Mary in Walnut Creek, who listened to her story with compassion.
“It was amazing just to sit with someone who truly cared,” Ashley said. “She didn’t judge me—she just listened.” SVdP volunteers visited Ashley at home to understand her financial situation and help her find a way forward. They provided rental assistance and guidance on budgeting, giving her the boost she needed to regain control of her life.
Today, Ashley is back at work as a restaurant hostess and feeling happier and more in control. “I’m really thankful for the volunteers at SVdP,” she said. “They prayed with me and helped me believe my life could move forward again.”
Thanks to more than 700 dedicated SVdP Vincentian volunteers, people like Ashley don’t have to face hardship alone.
