Since opening our doors in 1979, St. Vincent de Paul Place has been a place of hope, compassion and dignity for individuals and families facing food insecurity, homelessness, poverty and other life challenges. A ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Norwich, we are located in the former St. Joseph School building in downtown Norwich, where we welcome every person with respect, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age or background.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to provide nourishment, care and advocacy while walking alongside those we serve as they work toward greater stability and self-sufficiency. We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where people know they are valued.

Each year, we serve more than 120,000 nutritious breakfasts and lunches, distribute over 1.3 million pounds of food through our client-choice food pantry, and provide thousands of hygiene items, pet food bags and essential household supplies.

Beyond food, we offer showers, laundry facilities, mail services, telephones, Wi-Fi access, clothing, advocacy, and connections to healthcare, housing, employment resources, recovery services and other community partners. We are committed to meeting people where they are while helping remove barriers that stand in the way of long-term stability.

Although we have a dedicated staff, the heart of St. Vincent de Paul Place is our volunteers. More than 100 active volunteers contribute over 48,000 hours of service each year, the equivalent of more than 23 full-time employees. Their compassion, generosity and commitment make it possible for us to serve our community with excellence each and every day.

Our work is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, churches, civic organizations, government partners and community supporters. We are also grateful for our partnerships with organizations such as the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center, Connecticut Foodshare, Hartford HealthCare, Yale New Haven Health, Uncas Health District and many others who help us expand access to vital services.

There is a place for everyone at St. Vincent de Paul Place, whether you come seeking help or hoping to help others. We look forward to welcoming you.