SOCIETY of St Vincent de Paul members from Malahide were among over 1,000 people who gathered in Dublin’s Convention Centre to celebrate the organisation’s 175 years in Ireland.
SVP is the best-known and most widely supported organisation of social concern and action in Ireland with over 11,500 volunteers active in every county in the country. Since its foundation in 1844 it has been serving the poorest and most vulnerable in our communities.
For decades the Society has provided help and support to those most in need through the Famine in the 19th century, two World Wars, an Uprising, a Civil War and cycles of economic austerity.
SVP national president Kieran Stafford said: “Sadly today we still see poverty in many different situations and circumstances.
“There are nearly 800,000 living below the poverty line including 100,000 people at work; record numbers of homeless; 50 percent of lone parent families experiencing deprivation; and 61 percent of families struggling with education costs.
“We know and meet the people behind the figures every week bringing friendship and support.” President Michael D Higgins formally opened the event, under the title 'Serving in Hope – Past, Present and Future’.
Speakers traced the history of SVP and outlined its role in social justice and education. Members of Young SVP showed how its Youth Development Programme is shaping the volunteers of the future.
Employment Minister Regina Doherty also addressed the gathering. Other speakers were Katriona O’Sullivan who shared her story from being a homeless, young mother, parenting on her own to being a university lecturer with a PhD and an advocate for equality and equity.
Kilkenny Senior Hurling manager Brian Cody spoke about leadership.