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As members of the Vincentian family, we are called to respond with compassion and solidarity when our neighbors face hardship and crisis. Today, our prayers and attention are focused on the people of Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that have impacted communities across the country.
The National Council of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA, in coordination with Society of St. Vincent de Paul Disaster Services Corporation USA and multiple Councils and Conferences throughout the United States, is actively monitoring the aftermath of this tragedy and assessing opportunities to support response and recovery efforts.
While the National Council remains domestic in focus and purpose, our Vincentian mission extends beyond borders, and we work closely with our international partners during humanitarian crises such as this one.
Current activities include:
- Local Councils and Conferences are responding to members of their communities who are seeking ways to support earthquake relief and recovery efforts.
- Disaster Services Corporation is actively participating in coordination calls hosted by National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to stay informed on response operations, needs assessments and opportunities for collaboration.
- The National Council is working closely with our international Vincentian partners to monitor developments and determine the most effective ways our Society can provide support to those affected.
Each August/September, the National Council launches a National Disaster Appeal to support domestic disasters and international humanitarian crises. These efforts allow the Society to respond quickly and effectively when communities experience catastrophic events and need the support of the broader Vincentian family.
As additional information becomes available, we will continue to provide updates and guidance regarding opportunities to assist those impacted by this disaster.
During this difficult time, we ask all Vincentians to join together in prayer for the people of Venezuela, for the families who have lost loved ones, for those who have been displaced from their homes and for the first responders, relief organizations and volunteers working tirelessly to bring aid and hope to affected communities.
"Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." — 1 John 3:18
Thank you for continuing to live out our Vincentian mission of service, compassion and solidarity with our neighbors in need around the world.
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