The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe has given $5,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Seattle/King County to help prevent evictions and hunger facing neighbors in need in Seattle and King County.

The 2-1-1 Community Information Line refers more people to St. Vincent de Paul than to any other agency in Seattle/King County. The charity answered 52,150 calls from all sources in 2010 — a 58-percent increase over 2008. The agency also distributes 1.6 million meals to the needy annually.

“The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s grant is a great boost for us. We will be able to help more people struggling from devastating unemployment or the affects of poverty. In addition, their support will encourage others groups to join St. Vincent de Paul in our mission to prevent eviction, hunger, utility shut-offs and more,” said Andre de Klaver, Executive Director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Seattle/King County.

The Muckleshoot Charitable Fund distributes approximately $1 million per year. The Muckleshoot Tribe has long understood the importance of being proactive in meeting the needs of the community.

About the Society of St. Vincent de Paul

The organization is known for its 53 neighborhood, all-volunteer groups in Seattle/King County, thrift stores, food distribution programs, and other community outreaches to help neighbors in need. It is part of the international Society of St. Vincent de Paul which helps the poor in 142 nations and was a 2008 Nobel Peace Prize nominee. It is a Catholic lay-run charity helping all in need regardless of creed, ethnicity or any other factor.