The first conference of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in Canada was founded on November 12^th, 1846, coming to life at the cathedral, in the city of Quebec.  Ever since, the society has continued to expand across the country and today we are present from coast to coast.  In spite of parish closures and amalgamations, the number of our conferences is increasing and we continue to recruit new volunteers.

Since our beginning and to this day, it is the generosity of our patrons that has allowed us to help millions of people across the country.  In 2015, Vincentians served close to 389,000 individuals.  We serve the people in need, regardless of race, religion, gender identification, citizenship status, physical or mental health through our home visits, stores, clothing counters, soup kitchens, food banks, shelters, prisoner advocacy, affordable housing and summer camps. 

In 2015, we had more than 800 conferences and over 14,000 members in Canada, not counting the auxiliary members, who join us occasionally for specific activities.  We are present in all provinces and in Nunavut and the North West Territories.

We have been here for 170 years and are happy with the work accomplished.  We would like to be able to say that our work is finished but, unfortunately, this is not the case.  Poverty is not what it used to be but, fortunately, we have changed as well.  We continue to practise charity with justice, showing respect for the individual we serve, without prejudice and with love.