St. Vincent de Paul Society Conducts Food Distribution Drive in S. Belpuan Village, Manipur

Imphal, February 9, 2025: The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (International), in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Imphal, successfully organized a food distribution drive for newly settled Catholic families in S. Belpuan Village on February 8, 2025. This initiative, which aims to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the St. Joseph's Parish, Sugnu, provided vital aid to 50 households residing in fabricated houses built for their rehabilitation.

The food distribution drive, overseen by Brother Jude of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Father Varghese Vellikakam, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Imphal, delivered essential food supplies including 50 kg of rice, a bag of dal, onions, salt, and oil to the families. The amount distributed in this initiative is estimated to be around 3-4 lakh rupees. The event was supported by Fr. Samy, parish priest of Tuibuang; Fr. Mung, parish priest of St. Thomas Parish in Singngat; and various local leaders.

The families receiving the assistance were among those displaced by the ongoing violence in Manipur, which has left them without shelter or resources since May 28, 2023. Although some IDPs have taken refuge in government-established relief camps, others have sought shelter in the homes of relatives, friends, or rented accommodations in Lamka. Many recently relocated to newly constructed houses in S. Belpuan on January 10, 2025, but faced severe food shortages. After sending an urgent appeal for assistance, the Archdiocese of Imphal responded swiftly, facilitating this much-needed distribution.

The displaced families expressed deep gratitude for the timely support, acknowledging the generosity and compassion extended to them by all parties involved. This food distribution is part of a broader relief effort by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which has been actively serving victims of the ethnic conflict, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. A similar initiative was carried out last week in Gamnom under the guidance of Fr. Samy, benefiting other displaced families from Sugnu Parish.

Through their continued efforts, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is making a significant impact in the lives of many marginalized and displaced individuals in the region.

By Tungthang Zou,

News Producer, RVA Zo News Service