A Short History

Gathering money to help the needy was always one of the Society’s main tasks. Conference members contributed directly out of their own pockets, donations were gathered through “poor boxes” installed in Churches, while fundraising events and other donations resulted in the Society raising £37, 13 shillings, and 7 and a half pence in its first year in Launceston.

The funds went to supporting locals in need. At first about six people were supported weekly, but by the end of the founding year, Conference members were responding to approximately 30 individuals and families requesting assistance. Support was mostly given in the form of groceries, bread, and meat, as well as some wood for heating and cooking. Boots and clothes were also provided where needed, prompting the Conference to start seeking donations of these items. In some cases, rents were also paid.

In an age before government benefits, poverty in the colonial towns could cut very deep. Even a few pennies here and there could be the difference between life and death.

Fast forward 125 years, in 2024 the Society now has 27 Conferences across Tasmania with over 250 members.  Supported by around 245 employees and more than 900 volunteers, we work together to ensure the Good Works of the Society can continue to assist community members battling poverty, homelessness and social inequity. 

Sadly, just as in the early days, many Tasmanians are facing challenges that find them struggling to get by.  In a time of personal crisis, the St Vincent de Paul Society is a trusted source of support. Just as we did in 1899, we are here to help those in need with everyday essentials. Our Emergency Relief services, delivered by volunteer Vincentian members who provide a welcoming and non-judgmental ear, offer immediate access to food and personal care supplies, financial assistance to pay for essential utilities (for example power bills to keep warm), plus clothing and household items. For those experiencing or at risk of homelessness we also provide practical support to maintain and/or find suitable, secure accommodation.

In 2023-24 the St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania provided more than $1.4 million in emergency relief, giving 16,205 Tasmanian’s friendship, practical and holistic support to break the cycle of disadvantage and build sustained, connected, positive lives. The Society has expanded its works to answer the complexities of modern society. Building on the work of Vincentian members, past and present, we provide a range of programs and services across Tasmania. We offer short-term affordable accommodation for those requiring medical treatment in both Hobart and Launceston and there are three enterprises providing meaningful employment pathways for people of all abilities. Our youth activities engage children and young adults, inside and outside of schools, helping them to understand the principles of Catholic social teachings. We work with government to provide accommodation for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, and of course, we operate a large network of retail stores encouraging positive social and environmental practices while providing income to support the delivery of Emergency Relief.

In our 125^th year we are excited to celebrate our history – to tell the stories of the events and people that have helped us to be where we are today! Do you have information, personal anecdotes and/or photos that relate to St Vincent de Paul Society in Tasmania?  We’d love to hear from you as we seek to document our history together over the course of this special year. This is an opportunity to collaborate with our community to hear the history, crafting a legacy that will help to keep our heritage alive so that this can continue to be shared for decades to come!  Please click on the link below to share your news and help us tell the Tasmanian story of the Society.