On 17 August 2025, the Soweto District of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) joyfully welcomed 15...
``Embrace with tender affection the whole of humanity, especially the poorest, the weakest, the least important.`` (Pope Francis)

An unexpected moment of joy
Heart of our work
Our core work involves alleviating the worst human suffering in areas of abject poverty – where families live in homes made of cardboard or thin plastic … where unemployment and malnutrition is rife … and where parents are dying and leaving children to care for one another.
We help the hungry, the homeless, the sick, vulnerable children and destitute aged.
And because most of the work is done by volunteers, almost every cent you donate goes directly to helping those in need.
Latest News
Parishioners of St Theresa Catholic Church in Mogwase, Rustenburg were treated by SSVP to hot soup as a token...
Members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul outdid themselves on Mandela Day, Friday 18 July 2025, providing...
Grateful thanks to our loyal donors who supported our call for donations towards meat, rice, samp and vegetables for...
Kindness by numbers
MEMBERS
PARISHES
PEOPLE FED DAILY
YEARS OF HISTORY
Why we do this work
VINCENTIANS SPEAK
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I have always felt that I was not doing enough to show God how thankful I am for all that He has done and keeps on doing for me. Joining SSVP enabled me to practice the same love that Jesus’ life on earth radiated, an unconditional love that is given freely without expecting any rewards.
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I grew up with SSVP in my home – my parents have been members for more than 20 years. After losing a loved one, I joined SSVP to recover from my loss by helping others who have experienced the same. My heart holds a special place for children in need.
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I didn’t choose to join SSVP – the holy spirit led me to it. The work of the society echoes my favourite quote of St Vincent’s: “Let us love God, but let it be with the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brow.”
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Poverty provides a deeper motivation for understanding your neighbours, welcoming others and attending to those who are suffering. I would say go so far as to say that poverty helps you understand what happiness is, what serenity is in life.” Frédéric Ozanam