The SSVP and the Order of Malta France: a partnership to provide a better service to the poor
Eleven countries can already benefit from this agreement
Last December, our 16th International President General met the President of the Order of Malta France, Dr. Cédric Chalret du Rieu, with whom he had a pleasant dialogue on the work of both entities and the possibilities of joint actions for the future.
In addition to being very active in its own country, the Order of Malta in France also provides humanitarian services in 26 other nations, either through direct management or through its support to social projects, especially those related to women, children and the sick.
“I must admit that I was very pleased to hear about the extent of the Order of Malta France’s international action. I was impressed by the dynamism of Mr. Cédric and by the affectionate way in which he referred to our Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. I believe that together we can work more effectively in order to help the needy in those countries where the SSVP is also present”, stressed brother Renato Lima.
In agreement with the President of the Order of Malta France, the President General proposed to the Superior Councils of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in 11 countries to contact the local representatives of the Order of Malta France and thus check the possibilities of joint actions and projects. As well as the extension of medical care to the specific needs of pregnant women, children, the elderly and other sick people, the donation of medicines and housing assistance for the homeless.
The territories that can benefit from this partnership are Senegal, Guinea Conakry, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Madagascar, Cameroon, Benin, Chad, Palestine, Congo Brazzaville and Togo.
President Renato Lima considers that this collaboration with the Order of Malta in France is an excellent opportunity to expand the network of charity, with greater efficiency, achieving better results for the care of the most vulnerable people served by the Conferences and social works run by the SSVP. The President also prays to God to give many blessings to our dear brothers and sisters of the Order of Malta France.
This partnership with the Order of Malta France is the first step to achieve a higher level of commitment with the International Order of Malta, whose institutional cooperation agreement is being prepared for signing very soon. “This is the first step we have taken together, starting with France, towards a worldwide partnership to serve those most in need. I am very happy with this good news”, our President stated.
