St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge Hosts Breakfast for Rosie to Celebrate Rosario Martina’s Legacy

Friends of St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge gathered on Jan. 12, 2026, to celebrate the life and legacy of service of Rosario “Rosie” Martina during the Breakfast for Rosie fundraising event.

Baton Rouge – Friends, family, and community members gathered today for the Breakfast for Rosie, a special fundraising event hosted by St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge to honor the life and legacy of Rosario “Rosie” Martina, a founding member of the organization.

Rosario Martina, with his wife Laura by his side, devoted his life to helping neighbors in need. Inspired by his father’s lessons on charity and compassion, Rosie helped lay the foundation for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Baton Rouge.

Rosario “Rosie” Martina’s daughter, Patricia Martina, attends the Breakfast for Rosie event on Jan. 12.

In 1982, Rosie and volunteers opened the first St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room in a small donated house, welcoming 20–30 neighbors daily for a hot meal and a sense of community. By 1984, a larger facility opened, seating 120 and serving up to 250 meals each day, along with to-go suppers. Today, the Dining Room remains a vital lifeline for Baton Rouge residents, a lasting testament to Rosie’s life of compassion, humility, and kindness.

His daughter spoke at the event, sharing reflections on her father’s dedication and the impact of his service. Sunnie Johnson-Lain, President and CEO of St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge, highlighted Rosie’s enduring influence and emphasized how proceeds from the Breakfast for Rosie will support the future of the Dining Room, ensuring continued service to neighbors in need.

Rosario “Rosie” Martina’s daughter, Patricia Martina, speaks during the Breakfast for Rosie event on Jan. 12.

The event was attended by longtime volunteers, community leaders, and supporters of St. Vincent de Paul, all united in honoring a man whose vision and compassion continue to impact lives throughout Baton Rouge while looking forward to the future of service.

Staff of St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge assist during the Breakfast for Rosie event on Jan. 12

St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge continues its mission to Feed, Clothe, House, and Heal neighbors in need, providing essential services with compassion and dignity. From the Dining Room and Community Pharmacy to housing support and clothing programs, SVDPBR remains committed to uplifting the Baton Rouge community and ensuring that every neighbor is treated with respect, care, and hope.

Life & Legacy of Service: The Rosario "Rosie" Martina Story Mini-Documentary

A heartfelt documentary detailing Rosario “Rosie” Martina’s lifelong commitment to helping Baton Rouge’s most vulnerable, from modest beginnings in a small 1982 dining room to the bustling St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room that serves hundreds daily, showcasing a legacy of compassion, community, and hope.