Cannock Soroptimists are preparing for Christmas! But not just for themselves: as in previous years, club members do what they can to provide a better Christmas for some of those who may be in some sort of need this year.
They provide Christmas gifts for the women and children who will be living in a refuge run by the Pathway Project for women victims of domestic violence over the festive period. They send along toys, games, clothing, books, toiletries, jewellery – the recipients of the gifts are always touched that there are people thinking of them at this time.
Soroptimist Carole Holdcroft will coordinate the club’s preparation, cooking and serving of a Christmas Dinner in December for those who use the Soup Kitchen in Mill Street Cannock. They fund a large part of this meal too and usually serve over 50 meals, complete with all of the Christmas trimmings – again, this service to members of the community is always appreciated.
In lieu of sending cards to each other at Christmas, Soroptimists make donations to their International President’s appeal, held to mark United Nations Day on December 10th. The appeal this year is Women, Water and Leadership and will support at least five projects in five continents, embracing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the targets set out in SDG 6: Water. Increasing awareness of the vital role of women as equal partners at all levels of the water sector, ‘Women, Water and Leadership’ will work to ensure women and girls have the capacity, education and experience to manage water resources, and gain careers in water-related professions.
SI Cannock’s own Christmas Celebration will be held on December 12th at the Barns when President Val Jones will welcome members and guests to an evening of fun and fellowship with entertainment provided by singer James Michael.