st-vincent

Paradise Garden Villas Charity Drive Raises Over $11,000 and Donates Hundreds of Food Items to St. Vincent de Paul

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:40:16 GMT

(left to right): Lorraine Palmer, hospitality committee chair; Jerry Presseller, SVDP president; Dr. Charles Ehart, PGV president; Larry VanLerberghe, food pantry manager; and William Thornbury, PGV vice president

Punta Gorda, FL (April 29, 2026)

Paradise Garden Villas (PGV) has once again demonstrated the strength of community giving through its 2026 Charity Drive, raising a total of $11,090 in support of St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference.

This year’s drive marked a record-breaking success, with $3,790 in direct donations, exceeding prior years and showcasing the continued generosity of PGV residents. Through additional support—including an employer match program and multiple community matching initiatives— those contributions were significantly amplified.

One of the most impactful components of the drive was participation in matching gift programs, including support from The Patterson Foundation and anonymous donors, which tripled eligible donations up to $100 per donor. These efforts resulted in $5,940 in matching funds, dramatically increasing the overall contribution.

Beyond financial contributions, residents also donated approximately 515 food and essential items to help stock the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry, directly supporting local families in need. Community engagement played a key role in the drive’s success, with 47.5% of PGV homeowners participating through direct contributions, along with support from former residents and proceeds from community fundraising efforts such as bingo and raffles. “This was truly a collective effort,” said Dr. Charles W. Ehart, President of Paradise Garden Villas. “Our residents stepped up in a big way, and by leveraging matching opportunities, we were able to multiply the impact of every dollar donated.” The initiative was led by Lorraine Palmer, Chair of the PGV Hospitality Committee, whose leadership helped organize and execute the drive.

PGV representatives—including Dr. Ehart, Lorraine Palmer, and Vice President William Thornbury—joined St. Vincent de Paul leadership for a presentation of the donations and delivery of goods to the food pantry. “We are incredibly grateful for the continued partnership with Paradise Garden Villas,” said Jerry Presseller, President of St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference. “Their generosity directly supports our mission to serve those facing hardship in our community.”

The funds and food donations will support St. Vincent de Paul’s ongoing efforts to provide assistance to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and financial challenges throughout Charlotte County.

About St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference is a 100% volunteer-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hope and help to individuals and families in need throughout the Punta Gorda and Charlotte County community. Through person-to-person service, the organization offers food assistance, clothing, household goods, furniture, and financial support for essential needs such as rent, utilities, and transportation. In addition to immediate relief, St. Vincent de Paul helps individuals work toward long-term stability through educational assistance and connections to community resources. Powered entirely by volunteers and supported by generous donors, the organization serves thousands of neighbors each year with compassion, dignity, and respect. For more information about St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference or to learn how to contribute, please visit https://www.svdppg.org/ or call 941-575-0767.

20 Years of Fashion, Community, and Compassion: SVDP's Annual Fashion Show Raises Funds for Families in Need

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:59:38 GMT

What happens when 620 generous hearts, countless donated clothing items, and a passion for helping neighbors come together? Magic.

Our 20th Annual Fashion Show at the Charlotte Harbor Event Center was nothing short of spectacular, and we're still buzzing from the incredible energy, creativity, and community spirit that filled the room.

A Night to Remember

From the moment guests arrived to discover beautifully themed tables (many decorated by attendees who dressed to match!) to the runway show featuring models in exclusively donated clothing, the evening celebrated everything we love about this community: generosity, creativity, and a commitment to lifting each other up.

"Oh, it's exhilarating. And when the fashion show starts, it's so much fun. There's so much energy. It's all for a good cause," shared Mary Anne Faust, one of our wonderful guests.

And she's absolutely right. The energy was electric, the fashion was fabulous, and the cause? Well, that's what makes it all worthwhile.

Why It Matters

Every single dollar raised at our fashion show goes directly back into the community to support our neighbors facing crisis. As event coordinator Charlotte Boland explained to WINK News, "It helps to purchase food, it helps to buy bus tickets. It helps to provide education for ladies who are trying to increase their earning capacity."

Behind every donated dress on that runway, behind every ticket purchased, behind every table decorated with care, there's a family who will stay in their home this month. A senior who will be able to afford both medicine and food. A woman who will get the education she needs to build a better future.

That's the real fashion statement we're making: Compassion never goes out of style.

The Power of Donated Items

Here's something incredible: We didn't purchase a single item for the fashion show. Not one dress, not one accessory, not one piece of clothing on those racks. Everything came from our generous community.

Those donations didn't just make for a great show—they represent the heart of what we do at St. Vincent de Paul. We take what others no longer need and transform it into hope, dignity, and support for those who need it most.

As volunteer Ivan Pierre beautifully put it: "Being a retiree living in Punta Gorda and doing volunteer work and, you know, just getting the sense of completion that all that we do here, whether it's financial or emotional support or whatever, it goes right back into the community of people in need."

We Made the News!

We're thrilled that WINK News covered our event and shared our mission with the wider Southwest Florida community. Their story highlighted not just the fun and fashion, but the real impact this event has on families right here in Punta Gorda.

Watch the full WINK News coverage here

The coverage reminded us of something we're incredibly proud of: St. Vincent de Paul in Florida is the largest St. Vincent de Paul organization in the United States. That's a testament to the generosity of Floridians and the tremendous need in our communities.

Thank You

To the 620 guests who attended: Thank you. Your presence, your purchases, and your passion for this community made the night unforgettable.

To our volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event happen: Thank you. From sorting donations to coordinating the runway to setting up tables, you made magic happen.

To our models who strutted down that runway with confidence and joy: Thank you. You brought those donated clothes to life.

To everyone who donated clothing items: Thank you. Your generosity quite literally changes lives.

To our community partners and sponsors: Thank you. Your support amplifies our impact.

20 Years and Counting

This was our 20th annual fashion show, and what a milestone to celebrate. Two decades of community coming together. Two decades of neighbors helping neighbors. Two decades of proving that when we work together, we can create real, lasting change.

But we're not resting on our laurels. The need in our community continues, and so does our commitment to serve.

How You Can Help Year-Round

The fashion show may be over, but our work continues every single day. Here's how you can support families in need:

Donate: Your financial gifts provide food, prevent evictions, and keep utilities on for struggling families. Every dollar stays local and makes a direct impact.

Shop Our Thrift Store: Every purchase supports our mission while giving you great deals on quality items.

Donate Items: Gently used clothing, household goods, and furniture are always welcome.

Volunteer: From our food pantry to our thrift store, we need helping hands.

Spread the Word: Share our mission, our events, and our impact with your networks.

Mark Your Calendar

Can't wait until next year's fashion show? Neither can we! But in the meantime, stay connected with us on social media and through our website for upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and stories of impact from right here in Punta Gorda.

The Bottom Line

Our 20th Annual Fashion Show wasn't just about the clothes, the decorations, or even the funds raised (though all of that was wonderful). It was about a community that refuses to let its neighbors face crisis alone.

It was about 620 people who chose to spend their evening supporting a cause bigger than themselves.

It was about proving—once again—that Punta Gorda takes care of its own.

Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for caring.

Here's to 20 more years of fashion, compassion, and community impact.

Our Pantry Shelves Need Your Help: A Community Call to Restock Hope

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 19:49:35 GMT

In recent weeks, the St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference food pantry in Punta Gorda has experienced a dramatic increase in need — and today, our shelves are reaching critically low levels.

As reported in the Sun on October 17, 2025, our pantry exists to serve families and individuals experiencing hardship throughout Charlotte County. Last year alone, we distributed over 467,000 pounds of food , made possible solely through the generosity of our neighbors. But our supplies are now stretched thin, and we are calling on the community for support.

We are asking community members, organizations, and local businesses to help replenish our shelves. Items most urgently needed include:

Cereal
Canned meats, beans, soups, and vegetables
Boxed potatoes & ramen noodles
Condiments
Coffee
Toiletries
Insect repellent

These items directly support local families and seniors who depend on our pantry for nourishment and dignity.

Donations can be delivered directly to our pantry:

�� 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda
�� Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays | 9 AM – 12 PM

Additional drop-off locations generously supporting our mission include:

Brooklyn Joe’s Pizzeria & Restaurant • Crews Bank branches • Deep Creek Elks Lodge • Garden Club • Moose Lodges • Odyssey Nail Studio • Rivera Professional Plaza • Sacred Heart Catholic Church • Sandtrap Bar • Twin Isles Country Club, and more.

Our work is 100% volunteer-driven. Last year, more than 60,954 volunteer hours were given to help serve our community.

Your donation — whether a few cans, a trunk-full of groceries, or a monetary contribution — ensures we can continue to meet the growing need for food in Charlotte County. Every single item makes a difference for a neighbor who may be going without.

If you are able, please consider donating food or supporting us financially. Together, we nourish hope and strengthen our community one family at a time.

�� 941-575-0767
�� svdppg.org

Thank you for standing with us. ��

St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Punta Gorda Calls on Community for Urgent Support

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 18:57:54 GMT

The St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference, a 100 percent volunteer-run nonprofit organization, is calling on the community to help restock its food pantry shelves as supplies reach critically low levels. Each day, dedicated Vincentians and community volunteers provide food and assistance to local families facing hardship. Last year alone, St. Vincent de Paul distributed more than 467,000 pounds of food to individuals and families in need—a lifeline made possible only through the generosity of community donations. “Our mission is simple—to serve our neighbors in need with compassion and dignity,” said Jerry Presseller, President, “But right now, our pantry shelves are nearly bare. We need your help to continue being there for the families who rely on us.” During the past fiscal year, more than 60,954 volunteer hours were contributed by Vincentians and community members working to support those in need across Charlotte County. With the growing demand for food assistance, St. Vincent de Paul is asking local residents, businesses, and organizations to participate in the 2025 Food Pantry Drive.

 Most Needed Items Include: • Cereal • Condiments • Canned meats • Toiletries • Coffee • Insect repellent • Canned beans • Canned soups • Canned vegetables • Boxed potatoes • Gravy • Ramen noodles

Donations can be brought directly to:

St. Vincent de Paul – Sacred Heart Conference 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon

Additional community drop-off locations include:

Brooklyn Joe’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, Crews Bank (Murdock, North Port, Parkside, Peachland, and Punta Gorda branches), Deep Creek Elks Lodge #2763, Garden Club, Massage Perfect, Moose Lodge #1693, Moose Lodge #2121, Odyssey Nail Studio, Rivera Professional Plaza, Rio Nails & Spa, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sandtrap Bar, Tropical Trends Nail & Hair Salon, and Twin Isles Country Club.

A Community Effort

Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

Supporting Our Seniors: Monthly Harry Chapin Food Distribution

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:24:15 GMT

At St. Vincent de Paul of Punta Gorda , we are deeply committed to serving our local community, and one of the ways we do that is through our monthly senior food distribution program . Each month, we partner with the Harry Chapin Food Bank to provide nutritious food to 32 registered seniors in our area—individuals who may face challenges in accessing healthy meals on a regular basis.

Distribution day is always a special occasion. Early in the morning, the Harry Chapin truck arrives , fully stocked with food boxes specifically prepared for our senior participants. Our seniors line up with anticipation, eager to receive their monthly boxes, which include staples like canned goods, pasta, rice, and fresh produce. These boxes are carefully assembled to meet nutritional needs while offering a variety of options to support a balanced diet.

In addition to the regular boxes, we offer extra items for our seniors to choose from. These may include cakes, pastries, fresh breads, and potatoes—small treats that add a touch of joy to their meals and brighten their day. It’s a moment where they can enjoy a little indulgence along with the essentials, helping to maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity.

For many of our seniors, this program is more than just a food delivery—it’s a lifeline. It ensures that they can maintain their independence, stretch their budgets further, and feel connected to a caring community. The smiles, greetings, and stories shared during distribution remind us why this work is so important. It’s not just about food; it’s about nourishing the body and spirit .

Programs like this are made possible through the generosity of partners like Harry Chapin Food Bank and the dedication of our volunteers. We are always looking for ways to expand our services and reach even more seniors in need. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every effort helps ensure that no senior in our community goes hungry.

At St. Vincent de Paul of Punta Gorda, we are proud to stand with our seniors, providing not only sustenance but also compassion, dignity, and community . Together, we can continue making a meaningful difference in their lives, one food box at a time.

How You Can Help:

Volunteer: Assist with packing or distributing food boxes.
Donate: Your contributions help purchase additional food and supplies.
Spread the Word: Help us reach seniors who may benefit from our programs.

Every senior deserves access to nutritious food and a caring community. Join us in supporting those who have given so much to our community over the years.

Paradise Garden Villas Supports SVdP with Generous Food and Cash Donation

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 17:50:09 GMT

St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart in Punta Gorda is grateful to once again be the recipient of an incredible outpouring of generosity from the residents of Paradise Garden Villas (PGV) . Through a recent food drive, the PGV community delivered a truckload of non-perishable items to our pantry—an effort that will provide much-needed relief to local families in need.

In addition to the food donation, PGV also presented us with a significant cash gift , further enabling us to continue our mission of serving those facing hunger and hardship. This is not the first time PGV has shown their commitment to our cause, and their ongoing support continues to make a lasting impact.

We had the pleasure of welcoming members of the PGV Hospitality Committee and leadership for the presentation. Pictured during the event:

Truck Photo:

Lorraine Palmer and Janice Gorrell

Group Presentation Photo (left to right):

Margie Ehart – PGV Hospitality Committee & SVdP Volunteer
Janice Gorrell – PGV Hospitality Committee Vice Chair
Lorraine Palmer – PGV Hospitality Committee Chair & Charity Drive Chair
Dr. Charles Ehart – PGV President
Jerry Presseller – SVdP President
Larry Van LeBerghe – SVdP Food Pantry Manager
Bill Thornbury – PGV Vice President & SVdP Volunteer

Presentation Photo:

Dr. Charles Ehart (PGV President) and Jerry Presseller (SVdP President)

To the entire PGV community: thank you for your continued generosity, compassion, and partnership in serving others. Your support is truly making a difference.

Community Support in Action: PGICA Car Club Donation

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 18:23:02 GMT

Community Support in Action: PGICA Car Club Donation

In the spirit of community and compassion, Jane Leach and Gary Kropf, President of the Punta Gorda Civic Association Car Club, proudly presented a donation to Tony Rivera, Vice President of St. Vincent de Paul. This generous contribution is directed towards the Food Pantry, helping to address the most critical needs during this time of hurricane recovery. St. Vincent de Paul is deeply grateful for the community’s support, which enables us to provide essential items such as personal hygiene products, toiletries, cleaning supplies, non-perishable food, bedding, towels, and tents to those in need. Together, we’re making a difference, one family at a time.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL KICKS OFF $5 Million Affordable Housing FUNDRAISER St. Vincent de Paul Launches $5 Million Fundraiser for Affordable Housing in Charlotte County

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 17:42:39 GMT

June 20, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

In response to the growing need for permanent affordable housing across the nation, and specifically within Punta Gorda, St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference in Punta Gorda is partnering with St. Vincent de Paul CARES to spearhead an ambitious initiative to address this critical issue locally. Our goal is to provide permanent affordable housing targeting the most vulnerable people in Punta Gorda and the surrounding areas.

Through our continuous engagement with community members in need, it has become increasingly evident that permanent affordable housing is a primary concern. Many hardworking individuals in Charlotte County find themselves in a precarious position, unable to afford essential living expenses such as rent, groceries, childcare, and utilities on their current wages. These financial challenges lead them to seek assistance from St. Vincent de Paul for basic needs including food, clothing, housewares, furniture, as well as financial aid for rent and utilities. People that are homeless have even more exacerbated challenges finding housing. This project addresses this critical need.

In conjunction with Florida Housing Finance Corporation and St. Vincent de Paul CARES St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference in Punta Gorda seeks to raise an additional $5 million to complete the vision of providing more than 40 units of permanent affordable housing in Charlotte County. The cornerstone of this collaborative effort is a $5 million gift from Florida Housing Finance Corporation for the first 15 units. Additionally, $850,000 has been pledged from the private community toward Sacred Heart Conference $5 million dollar fundraising goal.

To succeed in this mission to build over 40 units of permanent affordable housing for those most in need in our community, we appeal to the compassion and generosity of Charlotte County residents and beyond. Your support is crucial in reaching this $5 million fundraising goal. The good news is that $850,000 has already been raised. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, your contribution to St. Vincent de Paul is not just an investment in permanent affordable housing but also a tax-deductible act of kindness that directly benefits individuals and families in dire need.

Join us in making a tangible and transformative difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our community. Together, we can build more than homes; we can build Hope.

About St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference and St. Vincent de Paul CARES

St. Vincent de Paul is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needy and suffering in communities across the globe. Sacred Heart Conference provides essential services and support to those facing financial hardships, striving to create a more compassionate and resilient community for all. St. Vincent de Paul CARES is a leader ending homelessness for US Veterans, families with children, and individuals in 19 Florida counties. To learn more go to www.svdp.care.

Please contact Merrell Dickey to help us meet our goal of housing over 40 families in our community.

Phone: 727-201-9875

Email: merrell@svdp.care

Relive the Moments: Annual Presentation Recap!

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:57:47 GMT

Catch a glimpse of the heartwarming stories and inspiring statistics shared during our recent annual presentation at Sacred Heart Catholic Church! Watch the video to see how parishioners came together to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need over the past year. From providing essential resources to offering companionship and hope, our community's generosity knows no bounds. Let's celebrate our achievements and look forward to the impactful plans ahead!

St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference Receives Gulf Coast Partnership 2024 Shining Star Award for Hurricane Ian Emergency Response Efforts

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 01:45:34 GMT

Punta Gorda, Florida - Tuesday, February 13, 2024 – St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference proudly announces its receipt of the Gulf Coast Partnership 2024 Shining Star Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Gulf Coast Partnership, in recognition of its outstanding response to the emergency needs resulting from Hurricane Ian, in collaboration with the GCP, SVDP, Charlotte Community Foundation, and other local agencies, businesses, and individuals.

The award ceremony, held on Tuesday, February 6th, saw the presentation of the Shining Star Award by Denise Dull, Director of Operations & Marketing at PORCH FL, to President Jerry Presseller and Past President Gary Moerke, representing St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference.

The collaborative emergency response efforts between the Gulf Coast Partnership and St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference were instrumental in addressing the critical needs of the community following the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian in September 2022. This award serves as a testament to the dedication, compassion, and resilience displayed by the volunteers and partners involved in the response efforts.

"We are deeply honored to receive the Gulf Coast Partnership 2024 Shining Star Award," said President Jerry Presseller. "This recognition is a reflection of the unwavering commitment of our volunteers and partners to serve those in need, especially during times of crisis."

Past President Gary Moerke added, "The collaborative spirit demonstrated throughout our emergency response efforts underscores the power of community solidarity. Together, we have made a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Ian."

St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Gulf Coast Partnership for this esteemed recognition and acknowledges the invaluable support of all volunteers, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the emergency response efforts.

For more information about St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference and its ongoing initiatives, please visit www.svdppg.org.

Transforming Dreams into Reality: Our Children's Bed Program

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:17:23 GMT

Transforming Dreams into Reality:

Our Children's Bed Program

For the past five years, a beacon of hope has shone brightly in our community, all thanks to the unwavering support from the Punta Gorda Civic Association's "Beyond Ourselves Home Tour" grant. This generous grant has fueled our Children's Bed Program, a project close to our hearts.

When our neighbors reach out to us in need of a bed for their children aged 0-18, we are there to make dreams come true. It's more than just a bed; it's a promise of comfort, security, and a peaceful night's sleep.

The video below encapsulates the essence of this heartwarming project. Watch as we build these beds at St. Vincent, load them onto the truck, and bring them to their new homes.

BLOOM ACADEMY STUDENTS RALLY TOGETHER FOR A SUCCESSFUL FOOD DRIVE BENEFITING ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, SACRED HEART

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:58:01 GMT

Bloom Academy Students Rally Together for a Successful Food Drive Benefiting St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart

In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, students from two Bloom Academy locations recently organized a remarkable food drive to benefit St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart. The result? An overwhelming outpouring of generosity that promises to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need within Charlotte County.

Image Caption: Ashlee, Assistant Director of the Bloom Academy's Airport Rd. Campus, proudly displays some of the donated items.

The students, under the guidance of Bloom Academy, took to heart the importance of helping their fellow community members who are less fortunate. Their collective efforts led to an incredible assortment of donated food items, showcasing their dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of their neighbors.

Ashlee, Assistant Director of the Bloom Academy's Airport Rd. Campus, was on hand to display a portion of the donated goods, highlighting the tangible impact of the students' compassion and dedication. These contributions will undoubtedly serve as a lifeline to individuals and families in Charlotte County who are struggling to put food on their tables.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart, extends its heartfelt gratitude to the students of Bloom Academy for their unwavering commitment to the community. By fostering a spirit of generosity and empathy among their students, Bloom Academy is setting a shining example for others to follow.

These donations remind us all of the importance of supporting our neighbors in times of need. They are a testament to the power of unity and compassion within Charlotte County and serve as a reminder that together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of those facing adversity.

St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart, expresses its deepest thanks to Bloom Academy and its students for their remarkable contributions. Their dedication to helping those less fortunate in our community truly embodies the spirit of giving, and their efforts will undoubtedly make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL WAS CHOSEN TO RECEIVE THE GENEROUS FINANCIAL BACKING OF WOMEN WHO CARE CHARLOTTE COUNTY MEMBERS!

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 11:41:48 GMT

St. Vincent de Paul was chosen to receive the generous financial backing of Women Who Care Charlotte County members!

At the quarterly meeting of Women Who Care Charlotte County, three admirable non-profits shared their missions. We had the honor of presenting our project aimed at procuring and installing a commercial freezer. This essential upgrade will enable us to store perishable food and assist even more community members, especially during emergency situations like Hurricane Ian. Back then, our working pantry was a beacon of hope, accommodating an influx of frozen food donations. We even reached overflow capacity, collaborating with other agencies to ensure the food found homes.

We're beyond thrilled to announce that St. Vincent de Paul was chosen to receive the generous financial backing of Women Who Care Charlotte County members!

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SACRED HEART RECEIVES $50,000 GRANT FROM CHARLOTTE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 14:54:11 GMT

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SACRED HEART RECEIVES $50,000 GRANT FROM CHARLOTTE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

PUNTA GORDA, FL, JUNE 19, 2023 – The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart is thrilled to announce that it has received a $50,000 grant, funded by the Charlotte Community Foundation (CCF) Hurricane Disaster Relief Fund.

This generous grant will be used to support our neighbors in need who are struggling with past due rent or utility bills, or completing essential repairs to make their homes habitable and safe. The St. Vincent de Paul Fix-It Ministry is dedicated to improving the lives of local residents by addressing critical home repair needs, such as plumbing, electrical systems, and other safety hazards. This grant will enable the organization to assist Hurricane Ian victims in the community and make a significant impact on their quality of life.

The Charlotte Community Foundation is a vital partner in supporting local non-profit organizations in the Punta Gorda area. The CCF raises funds and awareness for important causes, making a lasting difference in the lives of local residents.

St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Charlotte Community Foundation for their support of St. Vincent de Paul and the Fix-It Ministry. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of homeowners in need in our community.

As the center for Philanthropy in Charlotte County, the Charlotte Community Foundation (CCF) envisions a community that is philanthropically inspired to ensure all members are afforded an equal opportunity to thrive. The Charlotte Community Foundation was established in 1995 to serve the community as a 501(c)(3), tax-exempt, public, charitable organization. The Foundation’s mission is “Connecting People Who Care With Causes That Matter.

To learn more about how your causes can lead to meaningful impact, visit www.charlottecf.org on Facebook, or on Twitter at hashtag @charlottecforg or by calling (941)637-0077.

(Lynn Kaiser, Paul Kaiser, Tom McDonough, Gary Moerke, Justin Brand and Jerry Presseller)

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL ACCEPTS CHARLOTTE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANT

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 15:54:11 GMT

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL ACCEPTS CHARLOTTE COMMUNITY

FOUNDATION GRANT

PUNTA GORDA, FL, FEBRUARY 1, 2023 – The St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference is proud to announce that on December 14th, they received a grant from the Charlotte County Non-Profit Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance for residents of Charlotte County in need.

The Charlotte Community Foundation (CCF) is a tool for change. St. Vincent de Paul is proud to be leading the way. St. Vincent de Paul received a grant from the CCF on December 14th, which will be used to provide financial assistance to help Charlotte County neighbors in need stay in their homes or retain working utilities such as water, power, and gas. The financial assistance can take the form of paying past due rent or utilities, and in the case of owner-occupied homes, assistance with minor home repairs to maintain a safe and habitable residence.

At the center of Philanthropy in Charlotte County, CCF envisions a community that is philanthropically inspired to ensure all members are afforded an equal opportunity to thrive. St. Vincent de Paul recognizes their unique position as a leader in the community, and the level of investment it takes to affect change. Through deliberate grant-making, a forging of community partnerships, and an emphasis on higher education, the Foundation can focus exclusively on the needs of Charlotte County while enhancing the quality of its residents now and in the future. CCF provides personalized donor services to assist individuals when they need it most while establishing tax advantageous charitable funds to provide distributions, grants, and other resources that support nonprofits in Charlotte County.

The Charlotte Community Foundation was established in 1995, to serve the community as a 501c3, tax-exempt, public, charitable organization. The Foundation's mission is "Connecting People Who Care with Causes That Matter."

The Foundation provides a way for donors to make a difference in their community. It offers an online giving form and can issue tax receipts for donations. Donations are used to support local non-profits that provide services and opportunities to those who live, work or study in Charlotte County. They help with programs such as youth sports teams and camps; tutoring; literacy programs; senior citizen transportation; scholarships; arts and cultural activities; health care screenings; food pantries; housing assistance programs; after school programs for teens and children with special needs; domestic violence shelter support; regional disaster relief efforts and more.

To learn more about how your causes can lead to meaningful impact,

visit http://www.charlottecf.org or by calling (941) 637-0077.

ABOUT ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SACRED HEART CONFERENCE

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a local non-profit, has a long history of helping families in need, beginning in 1963, and they continue to do so today. They are committed to providing food, daily living essentials and limited financial assistance for those in need in Charlotte County. Vincentians respond to people in need by meeting with them personally, assessing their needs, and providing them assistance and resources from partner agencies.

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL ACCEPTS A HEARTY DONATION

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 15:54:11 GMT

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL ACCEPTS A HEARTY DONATION

PUNTA GORDA, FL, December 5, 2022 – The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a local nonprofit, is eager to assist those affected by Hurricane Ian and those who are in need. They provide services for those who are struggling with poverty, homelessness, and hunger, and have been actively involved in the community.

Amidst the ongoing recovery efforts in Charlotte County, Florida State Representative Michael Grant took time from his busy schedule to deliver a very generous donation of $12,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul Charlotte District Council. Representative Grant states, “The volunteer work of St. Vincent is critical to the health and welfare of our community. I am honored to assist them in their endeavors to help those in need as they deal with the aftermath of Hurricanes Ian and Nicole.”

"Being residents of Charlotte County ourselves, we at SVDP know what it's like to have your life turned upside down by a disaster," said Joe-Ann Pierre, Charlotte District Council President. "We are so grateful for this donation to help those affected by these hurricanes."

Accepting the donation on behalf of the Charlotte District Council were Joe-Ann Pierre, President of Charlotte District Council; Linda Caldwell, President of San Antonio Conference; Gary Moerke, President Diocese of Venice Council; Bill Bannon, President St. Maximillian Kolbe Conference; Jerry Presseller, Incoming President Sacred Heart Conference; Paul Kaiser, President Sacred Heart Conference; Charlotte Boland, Past President Sacred Heart Conference; Peter Catauro, President St. Charles Borromeo Conference.

To learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a donation, stay up-to-date with the latest news, visit www.svdppg.org contact (941) 575-0767 or follow St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference on Facebook.

ABOUT ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SACRED HEART CONFERENCE

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a local nonprofit, has a long history of helping families in need, and they continue to do so today. They are committed to providing food and clothing for the world's poor and needy. Vincentians respond to the needs of people in need by meeting with them, assessing their needs, and giving them assistance.