"Promoting Personal Excellence"
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY
Some people do not have what everyone else takes for granted. The SVP is an organisation that aims to help people in need.
The society began in Paris in 1833 by its founder, Fredric Ozanam, who was a student in the world famous University, Sorbonne. He was a Roman Catholic, who strongly believed in Jesus’ teachings, ‘Love God and love your neighbour as yourself.’
In Dungiven, we have our own youth conference for SVP consisting of 15 members, 11 of who are students from our school St Patrick’s. All members help people in our area through several ways, e.g. Home Visitations to people who need a bit of company, Local fold visits- this year we are visiting the residence of Benbradagh fold in Dungiven to sing festive carols in celebration of the season of Christmas.
As well as that, Christmas is a busy time for us as we make Christmas hampers for families who need extra help and support during the holiday season. This year, we have also taken to helping with the shoe box appeal. We have helped by sorting the shoe boxes with presents for the Children in Bosnia who are currently living in neglected Orphanages. We hope to give them some joy at Christmas.
During SVP week commencing, December 6th until 13th, we will be fundraising to help our cause. In the past people have given generously and we hope to receive the same support from our local communities and schools this year. A small contribution for each person will help us provide the support needed for families and create a happy Christmas experience for all.