St. Vincent de Paul reaches out

YOUNGSTOWN -- In the Bible, Matthew 25:40 says, "The King replies, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”

Volunteers from St. Vincent de Paul Mahoning District Council staff and its board, as well as the St. Columba Parish Conference, put that chapter and verse into practice when they hosted a community outreach event Sept. 10 at St. Edward Church on the city's upper North Side.

"We serve a hot meal, give out a bag of groceries and clothing and if there are personal hygiene items donated to the pantry, those will be given away as well," said Alan Hicks, Executive Director of the St. Vincent de Paul Mahoning District Council.

The meal included a hot dog in a bun, baked beans, macaroni salad, dessert and water. Guests could eat their meal inside the church hall or take it home.

Diane Guarnieri, president of the St. Columba Conference, organized the food giveaway so that it ran smoothly. Each volunteer handed an item to the guest as they proceeded down the line and received a bottle of water at the end. The meal was placed in a to-go container and a bag.

Boxes of books also were available for guests to choose a book. Heather Jarvis and Logan Jarvis of Youngstown had numerous titles to peruse before making a selection. Toys also were available for the children who attended the community event. Armon Ferranti, 10 months, chose a toy piano and a stuffed animal with help from his aunt, Samantha Ferranti, and grandma, Amanda Ferranti.

Numerous volunteers ran the event from giving out food, helping stock the clothing, toy and book tables, and cleanup.

"The outreach volunteers for each event are mostly from the parish hosting the event. Although, we invite others outside the parish to help as well," Hicks said.

Jason Varner of Youngstown is one of the host site church volunteers. He brought four of his children to help with the outreach event.

"We came because this is our parish and we try to help out when we can," Varner said. He also said he likes to help his community in general.

St. Vincent de Paul Mahoning District Council Board President Joe Vivacqua described the work of the volunteers and staff as "neighbors helping neighbors." He said it is the mission of the charitable organization to help people in need.

The last stop for guests was just outside the church entrance to the box truck in the parking lot where Hector Gonzalez, of Youngstown, an eight-year volunteer for the council, and Rocco Revetti, 10, of Canfield, stood at the cargo box to give out nonperishable items in a grocery bag. They included cereal, pasta, canned sauce, bread, English muffins and buns.

"Each event is special, not just for those receiving a free meal, food and clothing, but as important for those who give their time and talents. We are blessed to have the opportunity to share what others may lack through community, fellowship and love for our neighbors," Hicks said.