By Julia Shim
KUCHING — April is a month of special significance for the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) as this is the month that our founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam was born (23rd April 1813). Blessed Frédéric Ozanam was a French Catholic literary scholar, lawyer and historian who founded SSVP to serve the poor in his community in Paris and through his faith, vision and leadership, the charity grew and was extended to non-Catholics and to other countries.
In honour and celebration of the birth of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and in line with SSVP’s motto “Serviens in spe”, a Latin phrase that translates to “Serving in hope”, SSVP SJC organised a visit for members, to the Kasih Sayang Welfare Center (KSWC) in Stutong, Kuching. KSWC is a local NGO providing shelter to the mentally and physically challenged of our community who are homeless. Most of the residents were declined for admission by other established welfare centers or rejected by their own families for one reason or another. Some have mobility issues while many suffer from a variety of mental conditions. According to a staff, many of the residents are of Christian background although they do not have the means to attend Church service/Mass.
Members brought cooked packed meals for the residents and staff of KSWC as a treat, and spent time understanding the challenges and needs faced by the residents and staff of the welfare centre. Each resident has a story to be told, albeit a sad one, and witnessing their plight reminded participating Vincentians of our calling to serve through our faith, all who are in need, especially those abandoned by society and the folks closest to them.
At the time of our visit, there were twenty-three (23) residents and six (6) staff members. Soon after that, we were informed that they had another two (2) admissions. The center’s operations depend fully on donations from the public and well-wishers, and they continue to appeal for contributions in cash and in kind. They also welcome visitors to sit and interact with the residents to bring them some cheer and warmth.
We hope that our readers will be touched by the Holy Spirit to act on their Christian calling and will reach out to the center to offer them their support.
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