St. Vincent de Paul is on the front lines serving the homeless and economically disadvantaged in Portland communities. Here are just a few examples of how we make a difference everyday in the lives of those in need.
Rent & Utility Assistance
Recently a family of 6, 4 children (of which 2 are special needs) and 2 adults called to request assistance with rent and utilities. Their gas had been turned off for over two months, they had a gas hot water heater. The mother was using her electric stove to heat water to wash with. If they didn’t receive help soon they were going to be evicted.
St. Vincent de Paul was able to pay one month’s rent at $660 and get ttheir gas turned back on for $1033. The father of the family has a job that provides about $1800 per month. Mom must stay at home to care for the children they are 5, 6. 8, and 10. Food was also supplied for this family and on going care will be given to make sure they do not return to this desperate situation.
The mother and father would like to say thank you to everyone who donated their time, talent and funds to help people like them who find themselves in so much need of help.
Feeding the Hungry
St. Vincent de Paul delivered 2000 Chistmas food boxes to families in need on Dec. 19, 2009.
“My husband left me a couple of weeks ago I have two small children, I don’t know what I would have done without St. Vincent de Paul. They delivered a huge box full of food for Christmas dinner and presents for my children.”
“I am disabled and live on a fixed income I don’t know what I would do without help from St. Vincent de Paul.”
Lending a Hand Up
“Thanks for your help with rent assistance. I am very greatful! Have never needed this kind of assistance before. I didn’t even know it was available. One of your volunteers was very helpful and so was all the staff at St. Vincent de Paul.”
“I have never been in my current unemployed situation and needed assistance. I am so grateful for all of your help. I espcially want to thank your staff, they were great. I almost had my power turned off and you came through and allowed me to keep my power on. It is nice to know there are good people like you out there lending a hand. I can never thank you enough!”
We have never quite been in this position. I have lost my job but am taking care of a little one to help pay the bills. My huspand works hard but we are finding ourselves very behind. This is not the first month that PGE has come to turn of the electricity. I am on a time payment agreement but this is still 200 and I dont have it this month. With 6 small children at home we are panicked and have borrowed on the next paycheck to just cover gas for my huspand to get to work which is over an hour away. I still find myself without money for the electricity, wood for the winter, and of course many basics which we are learning to do without.
You might want to try to reach our emergency service office at 503-235-8431. I don’t know what is still available but it would be worth the call. You will be on hold for some time due to the amount of calls we are receiving. You could also visit the office at 5120 SE Milwaukie Ave. between the hours of 10:00 – 12:00 and 1:15 – 4:00 Monday – Friday.