In solidarity with other members of the Vincentian Family worldwide I am suggesting that we make contributions to the Vincentian Family Microfinance Project in Haiti as our alternative gift giving this Christmas. No gift is too small. A card will be sent to the person in whose name you send the donation. Please include the name and address of any person to whom you wish a card to be sent.

In view of the celebration of the 350th anniversary of the deaths of St. Louise and St. Vincent in 2010, the international leaders of the Vincentian Family named a Projects Committee to develop a specific initiative in favor of “the poorest of the poor” that would involve all the branches of the Family. They asked that this initiative also be in continuity with the Family’s focus on systemic change.

From among the options suggested the leaders selected a pilot project in microfinance based in Haiti. Microfinance, combined with educational programs and social services, has proved to be an effective instrument in transforming the lives of many who are experiencing poverty. It is anticipated that such a pilot project could serve as a model that might be followed in other places.

In solidarity with other members of the Vincentian Family worldwide I am suggesting that we make contributions to the Vincentian Family Microfinance Project in Haiti as our alternative gift giving this Christmas. No gift is too small. A card will be sent to the person in whose name you send the donation. Please include the name and address of any person to whom you wish a card to be sent.

Make checks out to the Sisters of Charity Federation and indicate it is for the Microfinancing Project in Haiti. Send all donations to:

The Sisters of Charity Federation NGO Office

211 East 43rd Street, Suite 504

New York, New York 10017

Theme for Anniversary Celebration: “That the Vincentian Family, together with the rest of the Church and the world, give homage to St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac as witnesses to and examples of love and service to the poor” (those living in poverty).