Few days ago we (members of St Vincent de Paul Society) visited a person asking for help.
Help was definitely needed - mother and 15 y.o. daughter - kicked from home by their husband/father. They are living in a transitional housing, but will move soon to a home provided by social services.
They were of Vietnamese origin, 4 years in Australia still mother's English was very rudimentary, daughter's was better, but apparently at school they do not talk about household and domestic issues.
We introduced ourselves and explained services and assistance, which can be provided by our Society mentioning few times our Society name.
- Saint Vincent... - mother was puzzled - you mean Salvation Army?
- No, Salvation Army is a different organisation. We are Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Vinnies.
- Vinnies - daughter's face brightened - I saw Vinnies shop in Springvale!
She was right - I came to my senses.
Saint - such term barely exists outside Christian cultural circle.
Salvation Army is in much better position. Each and every culture knows what ARMY means.
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