St Vincent de Paul appeal for volunteers in Dundalk to counter post-pandemic shortage

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) is reaching out to the community in the Dundalk area for support.

Volunteers have always been the backbone of SVP, and now, more than ever, it needs your help to continue its mission of positively impacting the lives of those in need. Your invaluable contributions can help achieve that goal.

SVP is holding an online information event on Tuesday, February 6th, at 7.30 pm. To register, email Kathryn.corrigan@svp.ie or call Freephone at 1800 677 777 (press 2 for members).

The SVP Dundalk Area president Helen Grant, speaking at the start of a three-week National campaign for new Volunteers, explained that “Since Covid, we have had a dramatic fall in the number of volunteers.

"However, the support through donations for our Christmas Appeal has been tremendous and allowed us to help over one thousand families in the Dundalk Area.

“The Dundalk Area is split into eleven different areas called conferences, starting with the large Cooley Peninsula bringing in Carlingford and Omeath as one, Ravensdale, Dundalk Town has six different conferences, Blackrock, Domiskin, Kilkerley HBX area, and Faughart bringing in North West Dundalk. All of these areas need new volunteers.

“Volunteers only need empathy, an open mind, and an open heart. Training will be given for everything else.”

She says that there are several different areas in which volunteers are needed:

IT / Finance /Accounting Roles

If you're tech-savvy and looking to lend your expertise, consider joining one of the eleven conferences in the area. Volunteers are needed to assist in IT management, ensuring seamless data management and financial oversight.

This role, requiring just two to three hours per week, provides an opportunity to make a significant difference with all the necessary training provided.

Touch Lives through Visitation

For those who value personal connections and have a heart for assisting needy families, the SVP visitation teams call for compassionate members.

With detailed training, you'll work alongside experienced conference members, providing advice and assessing the unique needs of families seeking assistance. This role, suited for individuals with life experience, is crucial in offering support and guidance.

Volunteer in vibrant Vincent Shops

The three bustling Vincent shops in Dundalk – Clanbrasill Street, Castletown Road, and Jocelyn Street, including the Bridal Suite – needs enthusiastic volunteers aged 18 and above.

Whether you can spare a few hours or a day or two each week, joining a vibrant team offers a chance to work in a friendly atmosphere, meet wonderful people, and truly make a difference in your community. No experience required

How to Get Involved

If you are interested in volunteering with SVP and want to embark on a fulfilling journey, you can apply by dropping a sealed envelope at any of the three Vincent shops in Dundalk.

The envelope should contain your name, address, telephone number, and preferred volunteering area. Please address the envelope to the Dundalk Area President.

SVP is holding an online information event on Tuesday, February 6th, at 7.30 pm. To register, email Kathryn.corrigan@svp.ie or call Freephone at 1800 677 777 (press 2 for members).