HISTORY The St Vincent de Paul Society, foundered in Paris in 1833, is an international volunteer organisation of lay people (men and women). OUR VISION The St Vincent de Paul Society aspires to be recognised as a caring (Catholic) charity offering a "hand up" to people in need whilst respecting their dignity, sharing our hope and encouraging them to take control of their own destiny. OUR MISSION To serve the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy and working to shape a more just and compassionate society. SERVICES Home visits to those requiring assistance Hospital and prison visitation School breakfast programs in low socio economic areas Education support (uniforms and/or books) for students entering secondary college NILS no interest loan scheme Education Assistance - tutoring students in literacy and numeracy SERVICE DESCRIPTION St Vincent de Paul members have a commitment to all forms of charity. It includes any form of help that alleviates suffering or deprivation and promotes human dignity and personal integrity. It includes visiting people in their homes, hospitals, institutions or wherever else they may be found needing aid or comfort with a special call for the homeless regardless of creed, ethnic or social background.