Frederic Ozanam, a young man in Paris in the earl 1800s, was looking for a way to put his Catholic faith into action. Sr. Rosalie Rendu, a sister in a religious order Vincent de Paul founded, guided Frederic to discover practical ways of serving those in need. Frederic formed a group of university students, which he named the St. Vincent de Paul Society, to carry on the work. Both Frederic, a layman, and Sr. Rosalie, a professed religious, were beatified by Pope John Paul II.
 
Our St. Mary's group carries on the tradition, providing a food pantry and assistance with rent and bills to those who are in need. The board meets monthly on the 2nd Monday in the Parish Hall, which is also where the Food Pantry is located.  Food items are obtained from the Western Massachusetts Food Bank.  Hannaford's supplies weekly donations and members of the parish also donate items.  

Brown Bag: Food for Elders Program. This Program provides a free bag of healthy groceries to eligible seniors on the third Wednesday each month.  St. Vincent de Paul Group organizes the volunteers to distribute the bags between 11:00 and 12:00.
 

Giving Tree:  During the Christmas season, clients who receive food from the Food Pantry have the opportunity to submit their children's names to be placed on the Christmas tree for parishioners to provide gifts and gift certificates.  

 If you know someone in the town of Orange in need of help,
 or want to be a part of the ministry of our St. Vincent de Paul group,
 talk to Kathy or Frank Schiappa, 978-544-6814.