We have recently had two women join our meetings to share their projects in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and they were inspirational!
Sister Tama Mercadi shared her experience of setting up and leading BCP Shout Out (a largely online network that helps link together local people in need with resources), contributing to convoys to Syria and Yemen, working with refugees, victims of abuse, and the homeless. She was an amazing speaker; her energy, enthusiasm, and ability to connect people positively was humbling. For the last two years, she has organised events in the centre of Bournemouth for homeless people to come together on Christmas Day with the community for food, gifts, clothing, haircuts and pamper sessions- all through volunteers.
Tracy Blick from the ‘Christchurch Food Bank Plus’ gave a stimulating talk about how the expansion of the food bank is making an enormous contribution to the community. In 2021 they gave out 13895 food parcels to individuals and families, but their work has expanded beyond food to help fill many other social needs. For example, during Covid the Food Bank supported 9 families who had been removed to safety from domestic violence by Social Services and fully equipped their new residences with donated furniture, crockery, linens, etc. They now also offer debt advice, community suppers, cooking skills workshops and a drop in café. Amazing stuff on our doorstep!
The Club agreed that both women have made an enormous contribution to the welfare of many individuals, and we agreed to support their endeavours in any way we can. If you are interested in this or other similar projects and would like to come along to a Soroptimist International Bournemouth meeting to find out more, please email us at sigbibournemouth@hotmail.co.uk.
