For more than a decade, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul has carried out a Catholic outreach ministry to communities living north of the Arctic Circle through the North of 60 Project. Rooted in compassion and solidarity, this initiative reflects the Vincentian call to walk alongside those in need—no matter how remote the journey.
Since 2010, when Sister Fay Trombley SCIC began her ministry in Tuktoyaktuk, Alberta parishioners, faith groups, industry partners, and corporations have united to support nine communities within the Diocese of Mackenzie–Fort Smith. What began with a focus on food security has grown into a comprehensive outreach that responds to local needs with dignity and respect.
Read more about this ministry in the SSVP Annual Report
With the generosity of supporters, sea containers filled with food, sewing machines and fabric, beds and mattresses, household goods, winter clothing, and sports equipment travel thousands of kilometres by truck and barge to reach Arctic communities. Each shipment represents more than supplies—it is a tangible sign of care and connection.
At the heart of this ministry is the twinning of Alberta parishes with northern communities. These relationships have fostered meaningful bonds between parishioners, youth, clergy, and residents of the far North. Through shared faith, communication, and mutual support, twinning has transformed outreach into lasting friendship.
Donations also support local, community-led initiatives such as Tuktoyaktuk’s Men’s Shed, Paulatuk’s Father’s House, and Inuvik’s Coffee and Bannock Gathering—projects that promote skill-building, warmth, and belonging.
Sister Fay Trombley, a former professor at Newman Theological College, was awarded the Governor General’s Polar Medal in 2018 in recognition of her service to the poor in the North—an honour that reflects the spirit of everyone involved in this mission.
The North of 60 project is supported by individual SSVP parish conferences across the Archdiocese of Edmonton through the generosity of parishioners.
Your gift to the Together We Serve annual appeal supports the SSVP Edmonton Central Council, which provides leadership and coordination to the 20 SSVP conferences in the Archdiocese.
