Moments in history

Melbourne, 5th March 1854

The St Vincent de Paul Society arrived in Australia, established at St Francis’ Church, Lonsdale Street, by Father Gerald Ward.

Frederic Ozanam’s vision of alleviating poverty had become a worldwide movement, reaching our shores 21 years later. The compassionate outlook and enthusiasm of the Society's founders continues today.

Over 37,000 members and volunteers across the country now share their time, care for humanity and energy to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged people.

South Gippsland, 1st February 1898

The Red Tuesday bushfire ravaged 260,000 hectares of bush, farmland and properties, leaving 2,500 people homeless.

In response, the St Vincent de Paul Society organises the first ever disaster relief appeal where 32,000 articles of clothing and essential items were received and forwarded to the burnt-out districts, providing much needed support.

Years later, the Society continues their commitment during natural disasters, including the 2009 Black Saturday and 2019 Black Summer bushfires. When others leave, the Society is still there, in it for the long haul.

WE ARE HERE!

Kew, 16th August 1908

The first school conference was established at St Francis Xavier College, empowering students to become advocates by putting their values into action.

This connection enriches student learning and increased awareness about community issues while also assisting people in need. Xavier's social justice network is extremely active.

This first school conference paved the way for many primary schools and contributed to the initiation of Mini Vinnies in 2005.

Melbourne, 1st October 1926

The first Vinnies Shop opens at 214 King Street, offering a range of products at affordable prices.

The concept of the Vinnies Shop only grew in popularity. Today there are 115 shops spread all around the country, making a difference with every item sold.

With the support of dedicated volunteers and donations from the community, the profits provide crucial material and financial support to people in need.

Maribyrnong, 1952

With the influx of migrants following the end of the war, conferences made an effort to ensure they had secure accommodation.

A committee of special works was established and in the same year, the hostel at Maribyrnong was granted the use of the local hut as a resource centre for children's activities.

The hostel has since accommodated migrants from almost every national group and contributed to the growth of Australia’s multi cultural society in the second half of the twentieth century.

North Melbourne, 4th September 1955

Volunteers and local parishioners recognise the growing concern of homelessness in inner Melbourne.

The St Vincent de Paul Society fundraised 50,000 pounds, purchased three parcels of land and construct the Ozanam House crisis accommodation centre.

64 years later, in June 2019, Ozanam House underwent a huge redevelopment, transforming into a modern, world-class, 10-level building which gives vital access to housing, health and social support services.

Fitzroy, 26th June 1975

Funds provided by the St Vincent de Paul Society enabled the purchase of the first soup van, delivering food and friendship to those in need.

The van has not missed a night since then. Over time, the soup van services expanded. Today, dedicated volunteers known as ‘Vannies’ deliver more than 780,000 meals per year.

But they offer more than just food… They also provide social connection and referral pathways out of homelessness and poverty.

Shepparton 1980

Following the successful initiation of the Cortona women’s emergency accommodation in North Melbourne, the St Vincent de Paul Society extends their efforts to combat family violence through the creation of Marian House.

Almost a quarter of a decade later, the service still lives on under the name ‘Marian Community’, providing 24/7 specialist support for victim-survivors.

In 2007 the support network expanded further with Olive’s Place, created to help women, LGBTIA+ people, children and family animals who’ve had to flee their homes to escape domestic abuse.

Dandenong & Heidelberg West 2008

The St Vincent de Paul Society opens the Dandenong tutoring program and the Heidelberg West reading club to help young people fulfil their potential.

The free education services are proudly inclusive and serve migrants and refugee students who speak English as a second language and families experiencing social and economic disadvantage.

There are now eight education programs providing over 10,640 hours of education support.

The Future 2024+

In the face of housing shortages, increasing inequality, global conflict and climate change, there will be an ever growing need for communities to work together and protect our most disadvantaged.

The future may be uncertain, but despite the challenges, the St Vincent de Paul Society and its members and volunteers, will continue to be there to support people in need, spreading positivity and compassion.

Because… Good.. Works.