Spring 2025 Newsletter
MSC-South
Northern California’s Largest Homeless Shelter Undergoes Significant Renovations
SVDP-SF, in partnership with the City and County of San Francisco, invested in significant renovations to MSC-South.
A vital resource for the unhoused, MSC-South will receive upgrades, including more beds, new bathrooms, and an improved kitchen, which will increase capacity and provide a safer, more dignified space for guests.
Established in 1989, MSC-South provides shelter, a health clinic, employment assistance, and referrals to legal services to about 300 people daily. With 340+ beds, the renovations will expand services and increase capacity.
Message from Pat Schmalz, CEO
Dear SVDP-SF Community,
As we welcome the Season of Hope, we are excited to share an inspiring update with you! For over 160 years, SVDP-SF has been a beacon of hope for our city’s most vulnerable neighbors.
MSC-South, Northern California’s largest homeless shelter, is undergoing a major renovation that will enhance our ability to serve those who rely on us.
Each day, we work alongside our partners and community to make a lasting impact. Your generous support — through donations, volunteering, and advocacy — fuels this mission.
Together, we are building a foundation for dignity, stability, and renewal for all. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!
With gratitude,
Patrick B. Schmalz
Chief Executive Officer
The St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco offers hope and service on a direct person-to-person basis, working to break the cycles of homelessness and domestic violence.
We See the Unseen
Renewed by Hope: Division Circle Guest Story
Bayron’s life took a difficult turn when his partner kicked him out after a hospital stay, leaving him homeless and injured. Losing his home was hard — but parting with his piano, his passion — was even harder.
He found refuge at the Division Circle Navigation Center. With the help of his case manager, Anna, Bayron regained his mental health medications and obtained an ID, allowing him to reconnect with his three daughters. For the first time in a long time, he felt hopeful.
He is now on the waitlist for stable housing. His dream of having a place to call his own — and perhaps playing his piano again — feels within reach.
Bayron’s message to others facing similar struggles is simple: “Be patient, stay focused.” He encourages others in tough situations to keep pushing forward, knowing support and change are possible.
“To all the supporters of St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco, thank you for being there for me. I believe in God, and I know you’re doing God’s work by helping people like me.”
— Bayron, SVDP-SF’s Division Circle Navigation Center Guest
From Paris to San Francisco: A Journey of Service and Hope
April 23rd marks the founding of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, established in 1833 by Frédéric Ozanam, in Paris. Moved by the extreme poverty around him and inspired by the work of St. Vincent de Paul, Ozanam’s mission was to “accomplish through charity what justice alone cannot do.”
Guided by Sister Rosalie, he learned to serve the poor with compassion and dignity. The Society grew to have a global impact, bringing hope around the world.
SVDP-SF was founded in 1860, continuing this mission of service. We honor the legacy of St. Vincent de Paul, Frédéric Ozanam, and Sister Rosalie by continuing their work of bringing hope, love, and dignity to those most in need.
Give a Gift
There are many ways to support: Donate online, send a check via mail, recommend a grant from your donor-advised fund, leave a legacy gift, and more.
Your gift creates meaningful change!
Volunteer with Us
svdp-sf.org/get-involved/volunteer/
Explore a variety of rewarding volunteer opportunities with us: IT support, crisis support calls, group opportunities, and more.
The gift of your time is priceless!
Donate Your Vehicle
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul gives Hope to People in Need!
Every sale from a donated vehicle will help support the mission, program and services of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
Give Today
Season of Hope
Bringing Joy Through Compassion & Service
A heartfelt thanks to our incredible corporate and community partners for their time, talents, and generosity! Notre Dame de Victoires School Men’s Club and PG&E recently volunteered at our MSC-South Shelter — the largest homeless shelter in Northern California — where they assembled toiletry kits, and prepared and served lunch to our guests. Their efforts brought hope and joy to those navigating the challenges of homelessness.
Partner with us! Contact development@svdp-sf.org
