An International meeting was held in Paris, France for National Council Presidents and Executive Directors from English speaking countries. Philippe and I attended representing Canada. There was representation from Australia, England & Wales, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore and the U.S. The meeting was held at the SSVP International Office with International Council staff and Juan Manuel Gomez, SSVP's President General International, in attendance.

It was a great meeting discussing governance and strategic environment within the different countries. Topics discussed included The Rule, Membership and Recruitment, Safeguarding, Twinning and Overseas Partnerships, Retail, new Aggregation digital system and International Council finances. Even though all countries focus on the same mission helping our neighbours in need, the way the Society operates is done differently based on the culture and laws of each country.

While in Paris, we had the honor of visiting Frédéric Ozanam's crypt where he is buried, and Saint Vincent de Paul Chapel where the body of Saint Vincent de Paul can be viewed above the altar. We also visited the Chapel of the Daughters of Charity that holds the Shrine of the Miraculous Medal.

We are grateful to the Australian National Council President and Executive Director who initiated this meeting, and to the International Council staff for their facilitation of the meeting. We hope to have ongoing meetings with English speaking countries moving forward to brainstorm and discuss important topics.

Linda Dollard, National President

Our exciting program is nearing completion! It will feature discussions about housing activities, food support, retail, rejuvenation and fund-raising tips and tricks, exciting updates on activities of your National Council’s committees, amongst many others.

Check out the full list here.

In addition we welcome Gregg Colburn, Professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, who will demonstrate without question that Homelessness is a Housing problem.

Finally, we are delighted to announce the participation of the Honourable Wanda Thomas Bernard, Senator for Nova Scotia (East Preston), who will discuss programs and upcoming initiatives on behalf of all Canadians in need.

Read more about our keynote speakers below.

We look forward to catching up with you this summer in Nova Scotia.

Senator Bernard champions issues impacting African Canadians and people living with disabilities. She is particularly invested in human rights, employment equity, and mental health. Through her involvement in community projects, her social work career, her time with Dalhousie School of Social Work, and now her work in the Senate, Senator Bernard has maintained a deep dedication to social justice and racial justice. Senator Bernard advocates for reparations for the historical and continued anti-Black racism impacting the lives of African Canadians.

I speak from firsthand experience—I was the recipient of this scholarship in 2021, and it made a meaningful impact on my journey. Beyond the financial support for my post-secondary studies, the scholarship recognized and affirmed the work I care about most: serving others and being valued within the Vincentian community.

Balancing school, life, and service can be challenging, and the time and effort you give may sometimes feel unnoticed. Yet young Vincentians are real change-makers, bringing passion, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas to the Society. I urge you to share your story, your experiences, and your commitment, and take this chance to highlight the difference you’re making.

Apply today and make your voice and impact heard. This year’s deadline is April 30^th.

For information and application, please visit the Emmanuel Bailly Scholarship page

Victoria Goldsack, Canadian Youth Rep

A Growing Vincentian Presence in Brampton, Ontario

On February 21, 2026, following the mass at St. Marguerite d’Youville church in Brampton, Ontario members of the Society gathered to celebrate the aggregation of the conference, commissioning of its members, and installation for new Vincentians from neighbouring conferences.

These ceremonies marked a significant milestone for the St. Marguerite d’Youville Conference and the Peel North Particular Council, affirming the Society’s ongoing mission to serve Christ in the poor through person-to-person charity.

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Elaine is also involved in a special project in the Okanagan Valley called Invincible Housing, which provides rent subsidies to help people remain housed and prevent homelessness.

Over the years, some of Elaine’s most meaningful moments have come from visiting people at their doors and being welcomed with warm smiles and words like, “We’re so glad you’re here — we really need this help.” These encounters continue to inspire her Vincentian service.

To anyone thinking about joining the Society, Elaine offers simple advice: “Don’t hesitate. There’s a place for everyone, and we can always find something for you to do. It’s fun, and it’s a great organization to be part of.”

Thank you, Elaine, for your many years of compassionate service.

We invite you to submit your nominations to recognize a Vincentian in our community whose work and dedication deserve to be celebrated.

The Rule (3.19) acknowledges that cooperation with other organizations in works of charity and justice is appropriate. SSVP is a lay Catholic organization and the beliefs of the Church must be preserved in partnerships with others organizations. It is also required that affiliated groups participate in the delivery of services as opposed to providing funds without active participation. This applies to other Christian charitable organizations and non-Christian community-based groups.

Active participation is not a requirement in the case of government and/or community foundation grants.

Non-Catholics may participate in the charitable work and the fraternal life of the Society but they are not eligible to hold office in the Society.

Your questions deserve answers — send them to us!

Candidates needed for the position of President of National Council

As announced during the 2025 Annual General Assembly, Linda Dollard's mandate as President will conclude on June 30, 2027. The time has come to consider candidates for the position of President of the National Council of Canada.

The format, timelines and candidate eligibility considerations can be found here and taken from the Canadian Statutes and Rule of the Society in Canada (2.3.4).