Homelessness and other forms of marginalization are often falsely framed as personal failures rather than the result of systemic policy decisions that prioritize profit over people. A Vincentian response calls for advocacy, compassion, and action to challenge this growing criminalization and to work toward solutions that uphold human dignity.
Many in Metro Manila face extreme homelessness and unsafe conditions, while Depaul International and the Vincentian Family seek lasting housing solutions amid inadequate government efforts.
Graeme Browne, Floating Support Service Manager at Depaul UK, leads a team that helps at-risk young people in Southwark secure housing, access essential support, and build confidence to navigate adulthood. By providing guidance, financial aid, and advocacy, they empower youth—many of them care-leavers or refugees—to overcome challenges, pursue education or work, and ultimately avoid homelessness.
Depaul Croatia and INA, a leading Croatian multinational oil company, launched a rehabilitation project in Rijeka to empower homeless individuals through sustainable farming of aromatic plants and composting techniques. The initiative, part of INA’s “Green Belt” program, aims to promote social reintegration and environmental stewardship.
Creating open conversations about mental health helps break stigma and encourages young people to seek support, which is crucial for those facing homelessness and trauma. DePaul UK provides trauma-informed care, including counseling, coping strategies, and personalized support, empowering young people to build resilience and improve their well-being.
With 150 million people worldwide currently experiencing homelessness, it is is an urgent social problem. It transcends geographical borders, intersecting with global economic, political and social factors. If we are to end homelessness, sharing knowledge, experiences and perspectives from different contexts is vital.
St Vincent Mews, operated by Depaul UK as part of the 13 Houses Project for the Jubilee, provides housing and comprehensive support for homeless individuals with complex needs, including mental health and addiction issues. Sofiane, an undocumented immigrant from Algeria, has found a safe and hopeful environment there, where he is receiving help to overcome his gambling addiction and work toward independent living.
Borna’s life was transformed with the support of Depaul, an organization that provided him with food, shelter, and guidance over the years. Through their dedication, he overcame alcoholism, improved his communication skills, and regained his health, while working toward a future where he can live independently and securely.
Depaul International’s staff exchange program fosters global collaboration by enabling employees to share skills and insights across its branches. Aynsley Rastofsky and Zainab Walji of Depaul UK highlight their enriching experience in Ireland, where they learned about innovative data practices, strong service partnerships, and the shared commitment to ending homelessness.
The Vincentian Family honors Blessed Rosalie Rendu by highlighting the collaboration between the Famvin Homeless Alliance and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul through the “13 Houses” Campaign, transforming lives across 14 nations. A new video captures inspiring stories of individuals overcoming homelessness and domestic violence, emphasizing the enduring mission of charity and community-building.
The Vincentian Family, guided by hope in Jesus, is joining forces through the “13 Houses Project for the Jubilee,” an initiative endorsed by Pope Francis to build dignified housing in 13 countries during the 2025 Jubilee Year. Below is an interview with Fr. Tomaž Mavrič, President of the Vincentian Family Executive Committee, who shares his reflections on the impact and call of this project.
Ivan, a 21-year-old who became homeless due to family issues, found support and stability through Depaul, an organization helping individuals in vulnerable situations. With their guidance, he gained professional skills, found a job in construction, and successfully rebuilt his life, moving off the streets and into his own apartment.
