Over 1,000 paintings donated to the De Paul Manor

A local artist donated more than 1,000 paintings to St. Vincent de Paul’s De Paul Manor, a shelter for people in need. The 100-bed transitional shelter is designed specifically for seniors and adults living with disabilities.

The artwork is meant as both a way to brighten the shelter and a token of congratulations to residents who leave. Each resident will take a painting with them when they can transition out of the shelter.

Associate Chief Program Officer of St. Vincent de Paul, Julia Matthies, and local artist Betsy Vincent joined “Arizona Horizon” to share the intention and impact behind the colorful donation.

“I believe in the program,” said Vincent as her reason for painting and donating the 1,000 paintings to St. Vincent de Paul. “They really help people renew their lives and move on to a complete and better life.”

The De Paul Manor, which was built only a year ago, is focused on providing permanent housing to people over the age of 55 or those who have a disability. With the new building completed, Matthies knew something was missing.

“It was a blank canvas. When she (Vincent) heard we needed the artwork, it elevated the space into a proclamation of color, joy, and warmth. It’s my favorite gift we have been given,” said Matthies.

Eventually, once all 1,000 paintings were hung up and displayed for the residents of De Paul Manor to view for themselves, their reaction was priceless.

It’s so lovely. I think Betsy has some of the comments from the residents. We wrote down what each painting has meant for them… It’s great and they love them,” said Matthies.

Courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul’s De Paul Manor.