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About the Black Bag Collection

In 1833, our founder, Blessed Frederic Ozanam, and the original members realized they needed money to fund their good works of charity. Because the giving capacity of the members varied, they decided to pass around a simple black bag so that each member could give what they could afford to give. Today, we continue this tradition.

In 1970, Bishop Markovsky experienced the great works of charity performed by members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. In every service provided to the vulnerable, he saw spirituality and friendship. In his first letter, Bishop Markovsky urged pastors to encourage parishioners to join us in this great cause. Over the years, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston expanded and so did the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. 

 

This year's Black Bag Collection will be a special or 2nd collection at parishes during the weekend of July 8-9, 2023 or July 22-23, 2023. We ask for your generosity to continue serving our neighbors in need.

How to Donate

You can support this vital campaign in several ways:

  • SPECIAL COLLECTION AT MASS. The special or 2nd collection will take place during Mass during the weekend of July 8-9, 2023 or July 22--23, 2023. Contact your local parish for more information.
     

  • MAIL YOUR DONATION. Checks can be made payable to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul; please include "Black Bag" in the memo line.
     

  • BY PHONE. You may call us to make a donation over the phone. Please call 832-538-0327.
     

  • DONATE ONLINE. Click the button below to make your gift online.  

How will the funds be used?

Despite being closely tied to the Archdiocese, the Society does not receive funding from the Diocesan Service Funds (DSF) like some of our sister organizations. The funds collected during this single weekend play a crucial role in the Society’s ability to fund our Vincentian Services Center, Food Network Ministry, Voucher Ministry, Home Visits, Resiliency Programs, and more.

Community Impact

$13.2 MILLION

given in direct aid in 2022

49,200

individuals served

95% of every dollar raised goes to programs & direct aid

$5.6 million

rent & utility assistance provided

21 food pantries 

serving our community 

2.8 million

meals provided

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140,000 hours

of volunteer service 

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