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

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.

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. 💙

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.

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.

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

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

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!

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.