Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,
As members of a Catholic, Vincentian university, we are called to see and respond to the needs of those around us — especially in times of hardship. The federal government shutdown has left many in the Chicago community, and even members of our own DePaul family, facing uncertainty and delays in the pay, benefits, and services they depend on to feed and care for their families.
Guided by the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul, we ask our community to come together in compassion and solidarity — to act with charity that is both practical and deeply human.
How We Can Respond Together:
- Support our students.
- Donations to DePaul’s Basic Needs Hub directly aid students who may be struggling to afford food, housing, and other essentials. Learn more and make a contribution on the Basic Needs Hub campaign website. If you are a student in need of food, housing, or other support services, please contact the Dean of Students Office for assistance.
- Support our local community through the St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
- The parish is accepting financial donations to sustain its local outreach through the Elizabeth Ann Seton Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen. If you wish to volunteer at the soup kitchen, you can sign up here.
- Donate essential items.
- Many areas across the university are organizing collections for personal care products and non-perishable food items. A list of helpful items can be found here. Collection boxes are available at the following locations:
- Richardson Library, first floor
- College of Education building
- Environmental Sciences department, McGowan South, second floor
Sullivan Athletics Center lobby
Additional collection boxes will be placed in other areas on campus, and Mission and Ministry will keep its website updated.
- Give your time and talents.
In moments like these, we are reminded of St. Louise de Marillac’s encouragement: “Be diligent in serving the poor. Love the poor, honor them, my children, as you would honor Christ himself.”
Let us come together as a DePaul community — rooted in faith, driven by service, and united in care for our city and one another.
Sincerely,
Robert L. Manuel
President
Mark Laboe
Interim Vice President, Mission and Ministry
Kimberlie Goldsberry
Interim Vice President, Student Affairs