We commenced the FHA conference with a wonderful audience of over 100 participants from over 30 countries joining us to hear about how we could do more to help street homeless people, refugees, internally displaced people as well as slum dwellers. After the welcoming address of Mark McGreevy, we heard an inspiring keynote speech from Fr. Bob Maloney, CM, on Vincent and homelessness. Yasmine Cajuste then introduced the Famvin Homeless Alliance and told us more about how they would like to connect Vincentians across the world; share best practice; encourage the development of new services; support emerging and existing leaders whilst also working towards system change. All of this led to a multitude of interesting conversations – all before lunch was even close! Our first conference day also included a range of workshops as well as a discussion on working with slum dwellers. Sr. Carol Keehan, DC, chaired the panel which featured experiences from three continents: Rana Rahal (Caritas Lebanon) represented Lebanon, Elisabete Castro (SSVP) talked about Brazil and Fr. Gerald Borja, CM, shared with us his work in the Philippines. And the end of the day then saw a little highlight: The official launch of the 13 Houses Campaign! Fr. Tomaz had sent a wonderful video which left some eyes a little bit watery. Get your tissues ready and watch the video here!

We are excited for the second day and will update you on how it went!

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