Order of Malta Western Association Hosts Super Bowl BBQ at SVDP-SF

Thank you to the Order of Malta Western Association for hosting a Super Bowl BBQ for the guests at the Division Circle Navigation Center in memory of Gene Payne. For more than 20 years, the Order of Malta Western Association has generously continued this tradition for St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco shelter guests and staff, and this year was no exception.

On Sunday, February 8, 25 dedicated volunteers decorated the site, purchased and prepared a meal for more than 200 guests and staff, and served everyone before kickoff. Beyond providing a delicious lunch, the volunteers spent time connecting with guests and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Many guests shared how cared for they felt and expressed their gratitude for the thoughtful meal and fellowship.

We are grateful to the Order of Malta volunteers for their continued generosity, for honoring Gene Payne’s memory, and for spreading joy while caring for our community.

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.

Please See the Unseen

Volunteers Needed to Help Sort and Hand Out Clothing Donations

SVDP-SF is seeking volunteers to assist with distributing donated clothing to guests at our shelters. Volunteers would visit one of our sites during regular business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) for a few hours to help organize and hand out clothing donations.

If you’re interested, please contact Sophie Spievak at volunteers@svdp-sf.org to learn more. Those who sign up will be added to a volunteer list and notified when clothing distribution events are scheduled at each site. Thank you for your continued support!

Help Bring Comfort and Meals to Our Guests

We invite you to be part of SVDP-SF’s Ready-to-Eat Meal Program and help bring comfort and nourishment to our community! This program provides lunch to guests at our homeless shelters, which are only able to offer breakfast and dinner. Please consider donating sandwich lunches in the 150–250 quantity range to feed our guests with one lunch. We are looking for both one-time and recurring donors. This is a great way to engage a school group, neighbors, social groups, and more in an easy and meaningful way!

Please reach out to Sophie Spievak at volunteers@svdp-sf.org to learn more about the need, preparation and donation processes, and scheduling availability.

Meet the SVDP-SF Program Directors

Spotlight on Sharonda Aaron, MSC-South Program Director

What is your role at SVDP-SF, and how long have you been here?

I am the Program Director for the MSC-South homeless shelter.

What does a typical day at MSC-South look like for you?

I start by making rounds to make sure that staff have the support that they need, and I stay updated on anything urgent. Then, I prepare for any meetings, manage facilities oversight, and help resolve any issues that require a higher level of decision-making. I am also prepared to respond to crises. A significant responsibility in my role is ensuring that MSC-South remains in compliance with our contract and partnership requirements with HSH. As the day wraps up, I complete final emails, check on unresolved concerns, ensure documentation is in order, and confirm that operations are stable before the next shift takes over. Overall, my day centers on maintaining a safe, stable environment; supporting my staff; ensuring compliance; and keeping the building and program running smoothly for both guests and employees.

“Helping people has never just been a job for me — it’s who I am.”

What inspired you to work for SVDP-SF?

I have always loved helping others. Every job I’ve ever had has been rooted in supporting people and making a difference in their lives. My career began as a CNA at a retirement home in Piedmont. After that, I transitioned into working at a group home for girls. I then interviewed for a graveyard Program Aide position at SVDP-SF – an opportunity I was both nervous and excited about. That became my official start at SVDP-SF. From there, my work with the homeless community has continued to grow into the career I have today. Helping people has never just been a job for me – it’s who I am.

Can you share an example of when you saw the MSC team’s support positively impact a guest?

One of the biggest examples of our team’s impact was during COVID-19. We were essential workers who continued serving our community despite fear, uncertainty, and risk. The team showed incredible courage, resilience, and commitment – never stepping back from the mission. To me, every single person who worked through that time is a hero. Our staff’s compassion, strength, and dedication are what make MSC the supportive and life-changing place that it is.

What’s one thing you wish more people understood about homelessness?

I wish that more people understood that individuals experiencing homelessness are human beings who are going through a difficult time. Their circumstances do not define their worth. Not everyone who is homeless uses drugs or is struggling with the same challenges. What people see on the surface rarely tells the full story. A conversation – just a few minutes of genuine human connection – can change someone’s perception entirely. Homelessness is a situation, not an identity, and I wish more people understood that.

What do you like to do in your spare time or on days off?

I love listening to music, going to concerts, and enjoying comedy shows. Traveling is another passion of mine – I love exploring new places and experiencing different cultures whenever I get the chance.

2025 Impact at a Glance

  • 5,321 total number of guests served
  • 127 individuals placed in short-term and permanent housing
  • 205,000 nutritious meals served
  • 570 individuals sheltered daily on average
  • 2,418 domestic violence survivors served

Please Give a Gift to Support Our Most Vulnerable Neighbors

svdp-sf.org/give/

Share: