More Than Financial Assistance

Rosalin’s Story
After losing her job in January, Rosalin made a courageous decision — to start her own agency and create a better future for herself and her daughter. Like many new business owners, she poured her heart into building something meaningful, but the first few months brought slow growth and mounting financial pressure.
Soon, Rosalin found herself struggling to keep up with bills and worried about how she would maintain stable housing for her family.
“It was humbling to ask for help,” Rosalin shared. “But I’m glad that I did.”

That’s when St. Vincent de Paul stepped in.
SVdP Vincentians Susan and Shadia visited Rosalin and her daughter in their home to better understand their situation and offer support. What Rosalin expected to be a simple financial assistance conversation quickly became something much more meaningful.
“I felt so comfortable talking with them,” she said. “They seemed genuinely concerned with my situation.”
In addition to rental assistance, Susan and Shadia connected Rosalin with valuable resources, encouragement, and tools to help her move forward. But one simple act of kindness left a lasting impact.

“The day Susan came back to the apartment to make a rental payment, she brought me a purple vase filled with purple flowers she picked from her garden,” Rosalin recalled. “You can tell she has a heart to help.”
For Rosalin, the support she received went far beyond financial assistance.
“They let me know that I was not alone, and that can mean the world to a single mom,” she said.
Inspired by the compassion she experienced, Rosalin asked how she and her daughter could give back. Susan shared volunteer opportunities they could participate in together during the summer.

“Not only did they help me get through this hard time, but I found a new friend in Susan,” Rosalin shared. “She calls to check in on me from time to time, and I love hearing from her.”
Today, the purple vase still sits on Rosalin’s mantle — a daily reminder of kindness, hope, and community.
“Every time I see that purple vase,” she said, “I remember that I am not alone.”
Thanks to compassionate supporters like you, St. Vincent de Paul can continue walking alongside families during difficult seasons — providing not only financial assistance, but hope, dignity, and human connection.