Too frequently the causes of poverty can be found in the structures of society. To reduce poverty we need to change those structures. We make change by advocating for change, change in public policy, change in legislation.

As Vincentians we are committed to assist the poor. When we contact our lawmakers on the federal or state level to support legislation that will benefit the poor or oppose legislation that will harm the poor, we perform a truly Christian service no less than when we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, comfort the sick, visit a prisoner or make a home visit. While our home visits are one on one, our advocacy can be one for thousands. We become a Voice For the Poor.

From time to time, our conference will be alerting you to issues that require our support and ask you to help us in our efforts to promote systemic change. Tom Ricard has taken the lead on behalf of our conference, and if you are interested in legislative issues and being a voice for the poor, please consider being part of our SVDP Voice of the Poor sub-committee. Contact Barb at barbarakoster@comcast.net