Feast of Saint Vincent de Paul - Sept 27
St Vincent de Paul (1580 – September 27, 1660)
St. Vincent de Paul was born at Pouy, France on April 24, 1581. He was ordained a priest on September 23, 1600. Vincent devoted himself entirely to the alleviation of the sufferings of the poor, and to that purpose established the Confraternities of Charity, later known as the Ladies of Charity, in 1617. In 1625 he founded the Congregation of the Mission, his community of priests and brothers. With Louise de Marillac, he co-founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633. Vincent died in Paris on September 27, 1660 and was canonized in 1737. Pope Leo XIII declared him patron saint of all works of charity.
Reflection
The Church is for all God’s children, rich and poor, peasants and scholars, the sophisticated and the simple. But obviously the greatest concern of the Church must be for those who need the most help—those made helpless by sickness, poverty, ignorance, or cruelty. Vincent de Paul is a particularly appropriate patron for all Christians today, when hunger has become starvation, and the high living of the rich stands in more and more glaring contrast to the physical and moral degradation in which many of God’s children are forced to live.
source: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-vincent-de-paul/
Donate Items This Weekend
SATURDAY
September 23, 2022
(8:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
SUNDAY
September 24, 2022
(8:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Help those in need TWICE !
Once by donating the goods to the Thrift Store to be offered to those in need at little or low cost, and second as the money from the sales of items in the Thrift Store is given back to the local St Vincent de Paul chapters.
Plus... it is good for environment to pass along those unwanted items and not direct them toward a landfill.
To find out specifics on donations, please visit our web page:
https://www.svdpfrisco.org/bundle-weekend
We are happy to receive gently used, intact items. This means items must have all working parts, pieces and cords, and no structural damage, if applicable batteries need not be included. For example, we cannot accept a chair with a broken leg, or an electronic device with missing cables.
Also, all items must not require more than one person to lift and should be contained in a bag or box
KITCHEN & ELECTRONIC
Small kitchen appliances (coffee makers, blenders)
Dishes, glassware, cookware, & utensils
TVs or Computer Displays (flat-panel only)
Floor & table lamps
Mobile phones or Computers
CLOTHING
Clean clothing (all sizes)
Shoes (all sizes)
Accessories & jewelry
FURNITURE
‘Small/light’ items (Upholstered items must not be soiled, ripped or contain hair)
OTHER HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
Puzzles, boxed toys & games
Bicycles
Blankets, bed sheets, curtains, bath towels & rugs
Table linens
Art, pictures & frames
Wall hangings & decorative items
Small area rugs (clean, no stains or tears)
PERSONAL ITEMS
Cribs, used baby bottles, car seats, or mesh playpens
Clothing with stains, tears, fraying, or mold
Underwear or panty hose, cosmetics or toiletries
Books
FURNITURE
Baby cribs
Large exercise equipment
Waterbeds
Sectional sofas or sofa beds
Mattresses box springs or pillows
Large office desks
Mirrors without frames
Entertainment centers
OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT
BBQ grills, propane tanks
Gas-powered lawn or garden equipment
Swimming pools, sand boxes, or swing sets
Golf clubs or golf bags
Tents or air mattresses
OTHER HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
Camcorders, Videos, DVDs, CDs, & records
Books / Magazines
Major appliances (refrigerators, clothes washers/dryers)
Carpet
Guns / Weapons (real or play)
Automotive parts
Metal hangers
North Texas Giving Day - September 21
September 21, 2023
Through the generosity of donors like you, last year, St Vincent de Paul helped nearly 800 families right here in our community. We are a 100% volunteer supported organization, and our members spent nearly 7.900 hours meeting with those in need and supporting our mission of charity.
With rents and the cost of basic needs continually rising, while wages and fixed incomes have not risen, the need in our community continues to be more urgent than ever.
Please pray for us and our work, and if you are able, consider volunteering or donating.
More about North Texas Giving Day:
In 2022, $62.6 million was raised through 94,385 donors benefiting 3,210 local nonprofits, bringing the fourteen-year total to over $503 million for our community. Since its inception in 2009, this online event has transformed from an idea to help local people give wisely, to a movement that has ignited a broad culture of community-wide giving. During NTX Giving Day, everyone can find their passion and give with purpose, uniting to build a stronger and more vibrant community.
Last Chance to Get your Bingo Tickets
This is your last chance to purchase tickets to help St Vincent de Paul raise money to assist Frisco area residents in need.
https://www.svdpfrisco.org/bingo
Mini Loan Program Partnership with R1 Credit Union
Stopping the Cycle of Debt. Starting Over with Support.
Resource 1 Credit Union is the Mini Loan Program’s newest banking partner. We processed our first loan through them in June. The MLP participant is the director of an early learning center in South Dallas. She had been paying on a title loan for over a year, and her monthly payments were $850. All of those payments were fee and interest charges only with nothing going toward her principal balance.
The Mini Loan Program stepped in to help. She was approved for our maximum loan of $4,000. Her monthly payments are now ONLY $355, and the loan will be paid off in full in 12 months. $335 of the loan payment will go directly off the principal balance each month.
Our loan particpiant now has a credit union membership, and she is on the road to financial recovery. When she pays her MLP loan off successfully, thus establishing solid membership history, she will have affordable loan options available to her through the R1 credit union.
We are thrilled with this new partnership that enables us to support our vulnerable neighbors in need, and leads them down a path of financial stability.
If you would like to financially support our Mini Loan Program, please consider donating here.
Texas Utility Assistance Extended into December
Programs that help low-income families in Texas cover the cost of water, gas and electricity are being extended until the end of the year.
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/lihwap
Applications for LIHWAP will remain open for the foreseeable future and the TDHCA encourages those who need assistance to apply.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs.
There is no guarantee that new applicants will receive funding for either program according to TDHCA.
These programs provide financial assistance to qualified Texas homeowners and renters that have low incomes. Eligible expenses include electricity, gas, propane, water, and wastewater fees.
Qualified customers could receive payments to avoid disconnection, reconnect service, or pay a current or future bill.
St. Vincent de Paul celebrating fulfillment of 200,000 prescriptions ($55 million)
original story: https://dallasdoinggood.com/local-pharmacy-crosses-55-million-milestone-providing-life-saving-medications-to-uninsured-north-texans/
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) of North Texas is celebrating a significant milestone as its freestanding charitable pharmacy surpasses the fulfillment of 200,000 prescriptions, valued at $55 million.
Carlos Irula, the Pharmacy Director, is dedicated to serving uninsured individuals in need.
The SVdP Pharmacy, the first of its kind in Texas, has experienced rapid growth since its inception in 2018, addressing the critical need for access to prescription medication among uninsured individuals. Luis Gonzalez, CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas, expressed gratitude for the support and outlined the pharmacy’s dedication to expanding its reach and impact in the community.
MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE UNINSURED
The SVdP Pharmacy has played a crucial role in serving uninsured North Texans by bridging the gap in accessing essential medications. The pharmacy has seen a remarkable 165 percent increase in prescriptions dispensed from 2021 to 2022, demonstrating the pressing need for such services. While the Pharmacy dispenses a wide range of prescriptions, Basaglar insulin, used for diabetes management, is the most commonly dispensed prescription, highlighting the demand for affordable access to vital medications.
To qualify for SVdP Pharmacy services, individuals must meet specific criteria. They should have no health insurance coverage, earn a household income at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, provide proof of Texas residency, and possess a valid prescription. Based on these qualifications, approximately 1 in 6 Texans would be eligible for the pharmacy’s services, emphasizing the significant number of people unable to afford life-saving medications.
The SVdP Pharmacy’s remarkable growth is owed to various factors. Texas’s high rate of uninsured individuals, with over 5 million Texans lacking health insurance, has highlighted the need for the pharmacy’s services. Initially established to provide free medications to uninsured patients locally, the pharmacy expanded its reach during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a partnership with a medical courier, the SVdP Pharmacy now ships medications to over 300 cities throughout Texas.
Additionally, the SVdP Pharmacy has established valuable collaborations and partnerships with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government entities. Organizations such as Christus, Baylor Scott and White, IPS, Parkland, Ascension Health, and UT Southwestern refer patients to the pharmacy, enabling a broader reach and impact. An upcoming collaboration with the American Heart Association will focus on studying the positive effects of the pharmacy’s services on blood pressure management.
ADDRESSING ROOT CAUSES OF POVERTY
The SVdP Pharmacy is one facet of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s broader efforts to combat poverty and homelessness in North Texas. Alongside emergency assistance, the organization focuses on systemic change programs, such as after-school education and low-interest loans to combat predatory lending.
By tackling the underlying issues contributing to poverty, the Society aims to empower families and individuals to improve their long-term situations.
Looking ahead, the SVdP Pharmacy envisions expanding its programs and impact. Currently, plans are underway to establish a community outreach center in Lancaster, Texas, with the goal of replicating this model in other areas. The center will house a charitable medical clinic, providing much-needed healthcare to the underserved population.
Additionally, the pharmacy aims to secure larger facilities to accommodate its growing operations effectively. The integration of robotics has assisted pharmacy staff in automating the process of filling vials, which includes tasks such as labeling, counting, dispensing, capping, and sorting. The recent acquisition of the Parata Max II Robot Dispenser has already revolutionized production capacity, enabling the pharmacy to efficiently handle a significant volume of prescriptions and meet the rising demand for its services.
Furthermore, the SVdP Pharmacy is exploring partnerships with the state government and corporate entities to expand its funding sources and sustain its operations in the long term.
TRANSFORMING LIVES
The pharmacy’s dedicated staff and mission have allowed them to solve healthcare issues for many uninsured individuals, providing them with free medication. The SVdP Pharmacy has not only improved health outcomes but has also offered hope and relief to those facing financial struggles.
Luis Gonzalez, the CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) of North Texas, is a passionate leader who left the corporate world after 30 years to pursue a more meaningful path aligned with his values. In his 18 months as CEO, Gonzalez has embraced the opportunity to make a significant impact on the North Texas area through the organization.
“Listening to and getting to meet the over 850 Vincentians, along with the opportunity to do good and help people, has been life-changing for me. What we will always strive to do is help everyone that we come across on any given day,” Luis shares.
Similarly, Carlos Irula, the Pharmacy Director, is dedicated to serving uninsured individuals in need. With over four years of experience at the pharmacy, Carlos brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role. In his role, Carlos oversees the operations of the pharmacy and ensures that patients receive high-quality pharmaceutical services.
Patient consultations are a vital aspect of Carlos’s day. He provides direct consultations for patients with complex medication therapy issues, drug interactions, or concerns that require his expertise. Carlos helps patients understand their medications, educates them about potential side effects, and provides recommendations for optimal medication management. Through these consultations, he empowers patients to take control of their health and well-being.
Looking to the future, SVdP Pharmacy has launched a statewide initiative to provide free access to life-saving medications for uninsured Texans. Luis and Carlos are excited about this expansion, as it will enable the pharmacy to reach and serve even more individuals in need across the state.
Both Luis and Carlos share the story of a young patient who has been receiving free insulin from the pharmacy since she was 14 years old. Originally from Brazil, her family moved to Dallas in 2018. As a Type 1 diabetic, the cost of insulin was a significant burden for her family. Thanks to the SVdP Pharmacy, she has been able to receive free insulin for the past four years. SVdP is thrilled to share that she has recently graduated from high school, which is evidence of the positive impact of accessible healthcare and medication. Such stories affirm the transformative power of the pharmacy’s services and serve as a testament to the dedication and compassion of the staff. The ability to change lives has been a motivating factor for the entire team.
The impact of the work at SVdP Pharmacy can be seen in the lives of the patients it serves. Carlos’s dedication and passion for serving uninsured individuals are evident in his work at SVdP Pharmacy. Through his efforts and the collaborative work of the entire pharmacy team, the lives of countless patients have been positively impacted. Luis’s leadership has brought the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas to new heights, expanding the reach and impact of the SVdP Pharmacy. Through collaborations, technological advancements, and community involvement, the pharmacy continues to transform lives by providing free medications to uninsured individuals. The story of the SVdP Pharmacy is a testament to the power of compassion, collaboration, and the willingness to make a meaningful impact in the community.
GETTING INVOLVED
Supporting the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s mission and initiatives, including the SVdP Pharmacy, is crucial in making a positive difference in the lives of North Texans in need. Individuals can contribute by making donations or learning more about the organization’s services through their website at www.svdpdallas.org/donate. Every contribution, whether financial or through volunteerism, plays a significant role in providing essential support to those facing challenges accessing healthcare and medications.
The future sustainability of the SVdP Pharmacy relies on various funding sources, including individual donors, grants, and foundations. Moreover, the organization is hoping to partner in the future with corporate entities, such as Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug Company, that share a passion for helping the underserved and making a meaningful impact in healthcare.
As the SVdP Pharmacy continues to transform lives and expand its reach, it relies on the support and involvement of the community. Volunteers play a vital role in the pharmacy’s operations, particularly pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and bilingual intake team members. Individuals can contribute their time and skills by dedicating a few hours to support the pharmacy’s mission. The SVdP Pharmacy’s volunteer opportunities are flexible, with 2-4 hour blocks available on weekdays.
The future sustainability of the SVdP Pharmacy depends on collaboration, community involvement, and support. Gonzalez believes that as individuals reassess their lives and search for ways to make a difference, joining the SVdP Pharmacy’s mission can be a rewarding opportunity. The organization is open to partnerships with individuals, corporations, and those who share a passion for helping the underserved.
The SVdP Pharmacy’s remarkable achievement of surpassing $55 million in free prescriptions underscores its profound impact on the lives of uninsured North Texans. By providing life-saving medications and addressing the root causes of poverty, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of North Texas and its pharmacy arm continue to transform communities. As they strive to expand their services and reach, the organization invites individuals to join their cause, fostering a community of compassion and support to uplift those in need. Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure access to vital healthcare for all.