Society of St. Vincent de Paul works to help those in need

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul originated in France in the early 19th century. The organization, originally named the Conference of Charity, was founded in 1833 and later changed its name after St. Vincent de Paul, the priest known as the “Apostle of Charity” and the “Father of the Poor.” Nearly 12 years later, the society established its first American roots in St. Louis. Since then, it his has expanded throughout the United States with local representation at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church.

St. Vincent de Paul local president Phil Zimmerman and St. Peter deacon Bob Walker will be guests on an upcoming edition of the Talk of the Town on KTLO-FM. Zimmerman says the society has multiple ways to help someone who might be in need.

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Walker says as a spiritual advisor at St. Peter, he’ll often visit with those in need and listen to their personal stories about what they’re going through.

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While the society is known for its affiliation with the Catholic church, they often work with other denominations. Walker says on a local level, one of their main partners is the Center of Hope.

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One thing that gets emphasized by the society is the idea of “relationships over transactions.” Zimmerman and Walker say they have developed relationships with their clients over the 20 years they’ve been in Mountain Home.

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A lot of the local society’s funding comes from the contributions of the parishioners at St. Peter the Fisherman. For anyone else looking to donate or who might be in need, call 870-424-0926 or visit the office on the church campus Thursdays from 10 to noon.

This month, Our Community Cares, sponsored by H&R Block, Arvest Bank and KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot recognizes the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and its work to help those in need.

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