ST. VINNIE: Great place to support

As a retired principal, I recall the numerous parents coming into the office asking for help with finances and resources ... from veterans with a difficult time finding work, parents who lost their jobs, to those with illnesses making a devastating impact on family finances.

Some resources were available if parents were able to drive to several agencies throughout our community for assistance. Lack of transportation, gas money, and courage to take the first of many steps discouraged this from happening.

St. Vincent de Paul saw the same frustration for people needing assistance and created a vision of a one-stop location where numerous agencies could be housed under one roof to readily and easily assist any citizen in need. St. Vincent de Paul leased the former Cd’A Public Library building on Harrison Avenue, transforming it to the H.E.L.P. Center where 19 agencies are housed, and over 100 people a day are served. Agencies include Veteran Services, ICare, Heritage Health, and the Department of Health and Welfare.

Call Barbara Smalley at 664-3095 for a tour of the building to witness a heartwarming experience of compassion for our neighbors. St. Vincent de Paul is committed to keeping the H.E.L.P. Center as a permanent resource for individuals and families by purchasing the city owned building. Your help is needed to make this happen by donating whatever possible to the St. Vincent de Paul Campaign Fund. Together, we can all make a huge difference in the lives of many people facing struggles.

Thank you for any support you can offer.

PAM PRATT

Coeur d’Alene