How we Help | Spokane District Cou

Love Thy Neighbor

At the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, we draw strength from the power of community and collaboration. Through meaningful partnerships and the dedication of our volunteers—known as Vincentians—we respond with compassion and practical support to those facing hardship, isolation, or crisis.

Rooted in our Catholic Christian values, Vincentians serve individuals and families in need by offering a helping hand and a listening heart. From emergency rental aid and food pantries to utility assistance and homelessness prevention, we provide not just assistance, but hope.

We believe in the dignity of every person and in their right to a brighter tomorrow—regardless of background, circumstance, or income.

- Responding to homelessness comes with a high financial cost
  - Supporting a chronically homeless individual averages $35,578 per year.
  - This includes expenses for emergency shelter, healthcare, and law enforcement services.
- Early intervention is a far more cost-effective solution
  - Preventing homelessness through proactive support and services costs roughly $2,000 per person.
  - This approach offers long-term stability at a fraction of the cost.
- The financial case is clear
- Prevention is not only more humane—it’s economically smart.
- Investing in early support saves resources and changes lives.

- Homelessness affects over half a million Americans each year
  - In 2023 alone, 653,000 individuals experienced homelessness.
  - Rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures have driven many families to the brink.
- Economic instability is fueling the crisis
  - Many households are just one emergency away from losing their housing.
  - Rent hikes and job insecurity compound the struggle.
- Prevention programs offer a powerful solution
  - Communities that invest in homelessness prevention see significant declines in homelessness rates.
  - Proactive support—before crisis hits—restores dignity and protects stability.
- Hope begins with timely action
- Strategic, compassionate investments help families stay in their homes.
- Together, we can turn the tide and build pathways to lasting change.
- *Source- www.svdpusa.org