Meetings by zoom are becoming ‘the norm’ for Cannock Soroptimists! And being joined by Soroptimists from their Friendship Link Clubs in Melbourne Australia and Harrisburg USA as well as friends and guests in the UK is also becoming the norm – and it’s wonderful!
28 Soroptimists and guests joined zoom this week to listen to speakers Alan Hudson and Sheree, founders of the Dawn Allport Family and Community Movement. Dawn was Sheree’s Mom and Alan’s partner, she sadly passed away in February of this year. Family was the most important thing to Dawn – as well as her own children and grandchildren, she and Alan fostered for Staffordshire County Council for the last 20 years – and Alan still fosters. In fact, he has recently been presented with a National Award for his excellent work as a foster parent and the work he does to support other children being fostered as well as other foster parents.
Dawn dreamt of setting up a Community Hub for Mums who might be struggling. Sheree, her brothers, sisters and Alan have set up this organisation in Dawn’s memory. Because of Covid their main plans were put on hold; but, not to be deterred, Sheree set up a Facebook page ‘The Dawn Allport Movement’ where those in need can ask for help and those with goods to donate can do that. In the few months they have been operating they have helped over 50 families locally: with clothes, utensils, cots, toys – all the things a new Mum and her family may need.
Their plan is to have premises in a central, local location where Moms, their babies and toddlers can ‘drop in’ for a cup of tea. It will be a place where donations can be delivered, stored and then distributed, a place to chat and give mutual support, a place to cascade learning and a place where people can learn together.
Soroptimist Carole Holdcroft gave the vote of thanks and told Alan and Sheree that work they are doing is ‘Right up Soroptimists’ Street!’ and promised them their continued support: many bags of clothes, nappies and toys have already been donated and these have been gifted to homes where they were needed.
Anyone wishing to donate or anyone in need can contact Sheree on their facebook page named above or by emailing cannocksoroptimists@gmail.com
Photo attached: 1. Alan Hudson collects bags of clothes, toys and nappies from Cannock Soroptimists
2 & 3 Some of the clothing and shoes donated by Cannock Soroptimists
