Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul volunteers, known as "Vincentians," have shifted from referring to those they assist as "clients" to calling them "neighbors." This change aims to foster a sense of community and aligns with the term's use in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Vincentians are members of the local Church who aid individuals facing difficult circumstances within their community.

In the Diocese of Lincoln, call center volunteers answer calls on their Helpline (402-435-7968) during specific hours each week. The center receives over 4,000 calls annually. Unlike other agencies that may require messages and long wait times, Vincentian call takers answer every call live and take immediate action based on urgency.

"If we can help you today, we will call you back in the next couple of hours. If you are not chosen for help today, please feel free to call back tomorrow. We may be able to help you then," is one standard response given by volunteers.

After triaging calls, selected neighbors receive home visits from teams of two Vincentians within 24 hours. These visits provide rapid aid and reassurance to families under stress due to potential evictions or utility disconnections.

Annually, home visit teams meet and assist about 1,000 families out of the 4,000 calls received. Their primary focus is on emergency financial relief for rent, utilities, gasoline, food, beds, and furniture. Other forms of aid include medication co-pays, car repairs, work boots, state IDs, license plates and registration fees, car insurance, children's clothing among others.

Home visit teams are assembled each weekday for afternoon and evening visits. Each team handles two or three cases based on information gathered by the call center. They arrange appointments with neighbors and conduct visits at their homes—a practice that sets them apart from many other organizations that operate online or via phone.

"We almost always are welcomed with open arms," noted a volunteer regarding initial concerns about visiting homes directly.

Vincentians empower home visit team members to make quick decisions within set financial guidelines ranging from $300 to $500 per case but spend more in dire situations. They confirm information with landlords and utility companies usually within 48 hours to prevent shutoffs or evictions.

Families visited by Vincentians are informed about their Catholic faith and often participate in prayers if comfortable. Despite helping everyone regardless of creed—including non-Christians such as Muslim or Hindu refugees—the organization remains respectful of different cultural backgrounds.

Those interested in volunteering or supporting financially can find St. Vincent de Paul Conferences at various parishes including St. Joseph in Beatrice; Blessed Sacrament; Cathedral of the Risen Christ; Cristo Rey; North American Martyrs; St. John; St. Joseph; St. Michael; St. Patrick; St. Peter; St Teresa in Lincoln; and St Vincent de Paul in Seward.

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