Sixty years ago, a small group of St Joseph's parishioners established the St Joseph's St Vincent de Paul Conference providing welfare to Warragul families missing life's necessities.
Like Blessed Frederic Ozanam, the founder of the Society in 1833, they believed in doing whatever it took to help those in need.
On August 10, a thanksgiving mass was held to celebrate the conference's 60th anniversary.
St Vincent de Paul members wanted to remember and honour those who forged the path for present members, including those who have died, retired or moved away, and also those still present and working as Vincentians.
The mass also was an opportunity to thank members of St Joseph's congregation, the school communities of Marist Sion College, St Joseph's and St Angela of the Cross for their continued support and generosity.
Conference volunteers from Baw Baw and Latrobe region also attended the mass and received a blessing from Farther Brendan Hogan.
Four active members were acknowledged with badges for their 110 years of combined service.
The St Vincent's pantry is continually filled with donations gathered from Can Drives and Tinnies for Vinnies as well as donations for the Christmas gift giving each year from local Catholic schools and parish.
Baw Baw Food Relief also is a vital organisation in the community which the society calls on weekly for support with food distribution.
Christmas gifting also is supported annually by the Uniting Church, Rotary, Lions, Warragul Leisure Centre as well as local supermarkets.
The Vinnies store, began as St Vincent de Paul Stores, is run by St Vincent de Paul Conference. St Vincent de Paul Society is funded solely by Vinnies and generous community donations which enables support for families with essential household expenses like food, education, medical expenses and utility bills.
Conference volunteers are unique in providing home visits and/or discussion with families about their most pressing needs. The discussions can lead to solving an underlying issue and presenting strategies and support with other agencies.
Advocacy is crucial in supporting the community by voicing the needs of those who feel they have no voice.