Cannock Soroptimists are usually very busy during December – as are so many others – doing things to help others. Some of the things they normally do – like cooking a Christmas lunch for those who otherwise wouldn’t have one – have not been possible this year. But, true to their strap line “Women inspiring action, transforming lives” they have continued to support women and families both locally and globally.
Members have donated gifts for the women who will spend Christmas in a refuge this year, at those run by Pathway and Staffordshire Women’s Aid. All of the women will have gifts to open, letting them know that others care for them and about them.
Members and friends have donated clothes and toys to the Dawn Allport Movement – a wonderful group who ensure that local families in need get some of the things they so desperately need. They have also donated food items to Cannock Food Bank – this organisation is working to ensure no family goes hungry this Christmas.
And, rather than sending Christmas cards to each other, members have made donations to their International President’s Appeal “The Road to Equality”. This appeal runs for two years and will fund projects to help combat gender inequality: things such as FGM, forced marriage, domestic abuse, trafficking.
There should have been a Christmas Party at The Barns – again, something not possible this year. But President Trish Smith was determined club members would still have the opportunity to enjoy a fun, festive evening: members donned their Christmas finery and party hats and met by zoom, ready with jokes to make them laugh or groan, stories to share, and a Christmas quiz to get them thinking.
President Trish Smith and all members of Cannock & District Soroptimists would like to wish everyone a peaceful, safe and healthy Christmas.
Photo attached: A selection of the many gifts being donated to Staffordshire Women’s Aid and Pathway this Christmas.