Voice for the Poor

“The science of charity reform is not transmitted through books and at assemblies’ tribunes as much as by climbing stairs in the home of the poor, kneeling at his bed, suffering from the same cold as he does, and discovering the secret of a grief-stricken heart in the course of a friendly conversation. When we have accomplished this ministry, not for months, but over long years; when we have thus studied the poor at home, at school, at the hospital, not only in one city but in several, and also in the country, in whatever condition God placed him, then we can start to know the formidable problem of misery, then we are entitled to propose serious measures…” 

Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, 1848 

What is Voice for the Poor? 

“In the spirit of Christan love and justice, the Voice for the Poor Committee upholds Catholic values by researching, validating, documenting, advocating, and promulgating issues related to the condition of those living in need and the disenfranchised for the purpose of helping Vincentians live their faith by acting knowledgeably and credibly as a unified body, speaking with one voice to build up the kingdom of God.” –Voice for the Poor Mission Statement 

The Political Life 

In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation. The obligation to participate in political life is rooted in our baptismal commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to bear Christian witness in all we do (Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, no. 13). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s Voice for the Poor (VfP) committees are groups of Vincentians that do just that—participate in political life in a way that is informed by (to use words from our Blessed founder) “sitting by [our neighbor’s] bedside, feeling the same cold that pierces him.” By sitting with our neighbors, we begin to understand their struggle and can better speak on their behalf. 

Committee Hierarchy 

Aside from the National Voice of the Poor Committee, there are committees at (Arch)Diocesan and District levels that focus more specifically on state and local issues. These non-partisan groups are involved in a wide range of activities, from regularly publishing newsletters highlighting local issues or meeting with elected officials to talk about the challenges facing the poor. 

Dayton District Council’s Voice for the Poor Committee 

The social justice issue we are currently focused on is affordable housing. The rapidly rising costs of rent and first-time homeownership are putting many of our neighbors in the position of choosing between paying the rent and paying utilities or healthcare costs or even food. Our local Conferences are getting increasing numbers of requests for increasingly higher amounts of help with rent. Our VfP Committee is researching the various causes and some potential solutions. The Committee hopes to bring some suggestions on how DDC members can speak on behalf of our financially strapped neighbors.    

FAQ on Voice for the Poor