Vinnies Victoria

A big thank you to Metcash for their incredible support! At their recent Family Day, celebrating their brand-new distribution centre, they raised more than $1,870 for Vinnies Soup Vans, helping us continue supporting vulnerable Victorians. We’re also so grateful for their ongoing weekly food donations, which help keep our soup vans stocked and ready to serve people in need. Together, we’re creating real, tangible change for individuals and families who need it most—thank you, Metcash, for your generosity and commitment to supporting vulnerable Victorians through Vinnies Soup Vans. #CommunitySupport #VinniesSoupVans #Grateful #Metcash #MakingADifference #VinniesVictoria

🌟 Spreading joy, one letter at a time! 💌✨ Last year, St Monica’s Mini Vinnies took an old-school approach to giving back, proving that kindness goes beyond monetary donations. After brainstorming with Tayla, Youth Engagement Team leader at Vinnies, the students decided to write letters and create handmade cards for aged care residents and parishioners—bringing smiles and connection to their community. 💙 To make their creations even more special, they added pressed flowers and bookmarks, with Year 3 and 4 students joining in to craft Christmas cards. The students saw firsthand how small acts of kindness can create meaningful connections. The impact? ❤️ Residents cherished the letters, while students discovered the power of simple, thoughtful gestures. And they’re not stopping here—next year, Mini Vinnies plan to visit more aged care homes to continue spreading joy! 👏 Let’s hear it for these Mini Vinnies, bringing smiles to so many faces! #MiniVinnies #CompassionInAction #ActsOfKindness

Throwback to this day last year when we celebrated 170 years of good works! 🎉 On this historic day in 1854, the St Vincent de Paul Society arrived in Australia, founded at St Francis’ Church, Lonsdale Street, by Father Gerald Ward.💒 Frederic Ozanam’s vision of alleviating poverty had become a worldwide movement, reaching our shores 21 years later. ⌚Today, this compassionate legacy thrives with over 37,000 dedicated members and volunteers across the country. Their unwavering commitment and care continue to transform the lives of disadvantaged people every day.💙💪 How has Vinnies touched your life or the lives of those around you? We’d love to hear your stories and memories in the comments.👇🙏 #170YearsOfGoodWorks

Meet our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Advisor, Deb. Recently, Deb conducted a cultural audit of our central office in Box Hill, offering valuable insights on how we can further embed cultural respect in our spaces. Deb highlighted the importance of Aboriginal artwork, testimonials and statement pieces that reflect our commitment to reconciliation in meaningful, visible ways. Deb’s visit was a reminder to view our spaces through a cultural lens and we’re excited to bring these ideas to life. 👀 Watch this space – we’ll be sharing how our services and volunteer groups are making reconciliation a living, breathing part of what we do! #Reconciliation #CulturalRespect

🌟 Meet Scott Baudler! 🌟 Scott joined Vinnies in December 2023, wanting to broaden his skills while job hunting and was inspired by the incredible work we do in the community. ✨ Scott has truly become part of the Vinnies family. Thanks to the welcoming team and the support of Kim and Bree he’s gained valuable retail skills, completed the Future Leaders Program and even stepped into the role of Duty Manager!🙌🎉 What Scott loves most about his job is knowing that his work makes an impact and helps people in need.💙 Thank you, Scott, for your dedication and kindness. Your contributions truly make a difference! 💙👏 #VinniesVolunteers #CommunityHeroes #VinniesFam

🌏💙 Zero Discrimination Day 💙🌏 At Vinnies, we believe in a world where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion—regardless of background, beliefs, or circumstances. Every day, through our services, programs, and community connections, we work to break down barriers, foster inclusion, and stand against discrimination in all its forms. We welcome and support people from all walks of life, ensuring that no one is left behind. Our commitment to fairness and kindness drives everything we do, from the way we assist individuals and families to how we collaborate with communities to create meaningful change. Today, we reaffirm our dedication to a society built on acceptance, equality, and respect. Because when we recognise the strength in diversity, we create a more inclusive and connected community.💙 #ZeroDiscriminationDay #InclusionForAll #DignityInAction #NoOneLeftBehind

Last year, our incredible volunteers dedicated 10,641 hours to providing educational support for students in need. 📚✨ Whether it’s tutoring, mentoring, or simply lending a helping hand, these hours represent so much more than just time - they represent brighter futures, strengthened confidence and meaningful progress in the lives of young learners. 💙 To our volunteers: thank you for being the champions of education and empowerment. Together, we’re creating a better tomorrow for every child we support. 🫶 Want to join our mission? Become a volunteer today and make a difference that lasts a lifetime.➡️https://ow.ly/sQH950US6Lg 🙌 #GoodWorks #EducationForAll #VolunteeringMatters #BrighterFutures #CommunitySupport

As part of the Vinnies family, Chris Christofi 🇦🇺 🇨🇾 - we are always inspired by you dedication and advocacy in supporting people in Victoria experiencing hardship. We are so grateful for your continued commitment to creating change in the lives that need it the most. 💙

Meet Gino: a journey from homelessness to healing 💙 After losing his job, home and family connections, Gino spent years navigating the streets of Melbourne, feeling alone and overwhelmed. When he arrived at Ozanam House, what began as a search for a meal became a turning point in his life. At Ozanam House, Gino found more than just a safe place to rest - he found a quiet space where he could sit, read and experience peace. The team at VincentCare Victoria welcomed him with compassion, offering a listening ear and encouraging him to share his story. Through supportive conversations, they understood his struggles and guided him toward support. Over time, Gino accessed vital services, including mental health care, financial counselling, and housing support. Today, Gino is rebuilding his life. As a client volunteer, he involves himself in the community and has reconnected with his family, finding a sense of purpose and connection once again. “When I was homeless, I felt like I was trapped in a crushing dark hole... Ozanam House became my safe space, and the people here helped me find the courage to ask for help. They pulled me out of my dark hole. For that, I will always love them.” Thank you, Gino, for sharing your inspiring story. 💙 #EndHomelessness #SupportAndHealing #VincentCare

📞 A call to Vinnies – no judgment, just support ❤️ For some, picking up the phone and asking for help can feel overwhelming. Embarrassment, fear or pride can hold people back – but we want you to know we’re here, we’re listening, and we’re on your side. Monday to Friday, from 10am to 3pm, our dedicated volunteers in the Vinnies St Vincent de Paul Society Welfare Call Centres answer hundreds of calls from people facing tough times. Whether it’s food or other essentials, we take requests for as many people as possible and respond with compassion and respect. For some, our volunteers are the only kind voice they’ll hear that month. And that’s why we’re here – not just to assist, but to remind people they’re not alone. 💙 If you or someone you know needs help in Victoria, please reach out. No judgment, just support. Vinnies St Vincent de Paul Society Welfare Assistance Line: 1800 305 330 Once you get through, enter in your postcode to be directed to a volunteer in your area region.