CHARITIES FOR 2021

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My first experience with St. Vincent de Paul was on Easter Sunday in 2010. I came to volunteer for their holiday dinner, carrying my seven-month-old daughter in a backpack. Together, we walked around, sat down with families experiencing homelessness or facing severe hardships, and simply listened to their stories.

My baby girl brought so many smiles to that room that day—it was a powerful reminder of how simple human connection can restore a sense of warmth and dignity.

Over the years, my respect for St. Vincent de Paul has only grown. Their staff and volunteers provide essential, daily support that reaches deep into our local community. Beyond immediate relief, SVdP offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to prevent homelessness, feed families, and empower individuals to regain their independence.

Supporting their mission is personal to me, and it’s a big reason why a portion of every purchase at imjimsmith.com goes directly to funding their work.

Since 1934, The Los Angeles Mission has been a sanctuary for individuals experiencing homelessness and facing extreme hardship in heart of Downtown L.A.'s Skid Row.

 

They are renowned not only for offering some of the best, most nutritious hot meals among regional shelters, but also for providing immediate, life-saving emergency services: warm beds, clean clothing, medical care, and safe shelter.

Beyond short-term relief, the Mission focuses on long-term empowerment. Their comprehensive residential programs guide individuals through addiction recovery, mental health support, job skills training, and housing placement—helping men and women rebuild their lives from the ground up.

Regardless of your personal beliefs or background, the practical, compassionate work this organization performs every single day is undeniable.most.