In Paris 1833, the people were experiencing tremendous political and social upheaval due to changes of government, the Industrial Revolution and unjust employment practices.
 
Frédéric Ozanam gathered some colleagues and began to respond in practical ways to the poverty and hardship he saw in the lives of people around him. They visited people in their homes and offered friendship and support. This practice, known today as “home visitation”, remains the core activity of the St Vincent de Paul Society.