Participation at St Declan’s parish in Penshurst is growing rapidly as its outreach programs expand to meet rising demand for support across Sydney’s south.
A key part of the work is carried out in partnership with the St Vincent de Paul Society, with more than 130 parishioners registered to assist through the local conference – up from just four a few years ago.
Outreach coordinator Joanna Sukkar, who oversees homeless support and food distribution across St Declan’s and St Joseph’s in Oatley, said her role is focused on “really pushing the mission of the parish” and putting faith into action.
Sukkar, who has served as outreach coordinator since 2024 and previously as a St Vincent de Paul conference president, said the practical arm of the parish’s outreach has grown significantly.
“We now have three Night Patrol teams run by parish members,” Sukkar said.
“Every fortnight we prepare more than 300 sandwiches, fruit salads and muffins for night patrol services.”
Teams travel regularly to Liverpool, providing food and spending time with those experiencing homelessness, and demand for assistance has increased sharply.
“We fundraised for our Christmas appeal, which was really well received, and the parishioners are very generous,” she added.
“We’ve already used those funds by March because the need has almost doubled. In the last month alone I think we saw 40 people in the local area and beyond.”
To support growing interest, the parish has expanded opportunities for involvement, including additional food collection initiatives for those unable to participate regularly.
A new program has also been introduced to support people who are isolated or vulnerable by helping them build connections within the community.
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW metropolitan regional director Louis Hearnden said the organisation was “incredibly fortunate” to have such an active conference based at St Declan’s and St Joseph’s.
“It’s been great to see new members getting involved over the past year to meet the need that exists locally,” he said.
“We’re seeing growing demand across the St George region and St Declan’s is well-placed to respond to people’s needs with food and housing pressures.”
Hearnden said parish members supported 232 people in their area during the 2024–2025 financial year and 258 people so far in 2025–2026.
“Around one in five people are reaching out for assistance for the first time,” he said.
“With ongoing cost-of-living concerns and emerging pressures with petrol and rising interest rates, it’s important to have a vibrant conference connected to the community in a position to respond to increasing demand.”
Meanwhile, the parish’s social justice group continues its advocacy work, focusing on Indigenous rights, refugee issues and environmental and other concerns.
Sukkar said the generosity of parishioners reflects both strong leadership and a shared commitment to Catholic social teaching.
“Our faith tells us that just because I’m comfortable doesn’t mean I can forget about my neighbour who is struggling,” she said.
Parish priest Fr Chris Ryan MGL also praised the efforts of all those involved.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the many parishioners at St Declan’s and St Joseph’s who generously contribute their time,” he said.
“It’s a beautiful way in which the parishioners bring the love of God to life in others, especially those who are hurting or suffering in some way.”
