Like most Churches, St. Joseph’s has a special fund for helping those in financial need or crisis situation. Monies for this fund, called the St. Vincent de Paul Fund, are contributed through the generosity of our church ‘poor box’, other charitable sources, parishioners and anonymous donors. Funds are available to all people without discrimination, although St. Joseph Parishioners take precedence. The amount of financial help depends on the need of the person and the availability of funds.
Ordinarily, those in need present their situation and their bills to the Pastor. The Pastor or his delegate, in consultation with the Pastor, provides the funds for verifiable needs. The Pastor is solely in charge of the St. Vincent DePaul Funds.
Persons in need are respectfully interviewed by the Pastor or his delegate. Basic information, such a names, address, phone and social security number are gathered. This basic information helps to prevent duplication, or unfortunately, those who may be scamming. Since there are many with financial needs, the agencies of the state, county and city are first explored. Those in need are asked to apply first at those helping agencies. Basic agencies in York County include:
- York County Assistance Office: 771-1100 (Everything)
- Salvation Army: 848-2364 (Rent, utilities, Transportation, Rx)
- St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church: 845-2721 (Utilities, transportation, RX)
- 1st Presbyterian Church: 848-8869 (Utilities, Transportation)
- York Housing Authority: 846-1772 (Rent, Housing)
- Catholic Harvest Food Pantry: 846-8899 (Food and other common needs)
A listing of all agencies in the County can be obtained by calling FIRST: 755-1000.
If you would like to contribute to the St. Vincent de Paul Fund, please contact the Pastor.