Dear friends,

As we take time to reflect on 2023, one word comes to mind; MIRACLE.

You are – and truly have been – a miracle to our neighbors in need. You have transformed scarcity into abundance. 

You were there despite a 104% increase in families needing food, medicine, clothing, furniture, and support. In 2023, no one seeking help from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison was turned away. Thank you for your compassion for every one of these families.

You are part of a caring community of supporters who believe all people deserve dignity.

In fact, for the first time in her life, Angela has stability thanks to you.

For nearly four decades Angela has struggled with abuse, abandonment, gang violence, mental health issues, and homelessness. Sadly, her four children have also experienced many of these same challenges. Angela is strong and resilient, but needed someone to walk with her and support her to a better tomorrow for her and her kids.

When Angela’s landlord refused to renew her lease and issued an eviction notice, she found her way to the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Program.

Because of you, she feels confident taking the next steps in her life. She hopes her story of overcoming challenging times gives someone in a similar situation hope and inspiration to keep moving forward. 

Angela connected with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Program for help to appeal her eviction notice and prevent her family from becoming homeless. The support – both physical and emotional – she receives allows her to cover her basic needs and focus on goals that will ensure her family’s stability.

The St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Program exists because of your support. You are a miracle.

Program Director Priscilla Lentini is a passionate advocate for families. She provides them with a listening ear and a boost of encouragement as well as connecting them to legal assistance, quality childcare, employment, and affordable car repair.

Thanks to you, Angela has someone to walk alongside her, someone watching her back to guide her towards the proper resources that will bring restoration and balance in her life.

“When you’re in a place out of your control, and someone tells you it’s going to be okay; it’s powerful,” Angela said. “That is the kind of stuff I need: coping, nurturing. It is healing and fulfilling.”

With you, moms like Angela don’t have to face their challenges alone. They’re able to confidently take the next steps in their life, knowing that they have a real support system around them. It’s a change that transforms their life and the lives of their children.

Thank you for being a miracle in 2023.

In gratitude for you,

Julie Bennett

CEO & Executive Director

*Name changed to protect neighbor’s privacy.