For some time now members of the Grange Club have been collecting toiletries for Springfield , where accommodation and support is given to seven single women who have been affected by domestic violence.  The women share a kitchen, bathrooms and two reception rooms, and the aim is to provide them with the skills and self-confidence to live independently, and inspire them to achieve their own personal goals. They can stay there for up to two years, but most are ready to move on to independent living before that time.   Springfield has been providing safe accommodation for vulnerable women since 1915, and previously was a home for unmarried mothers.

Although Springfield recives some funding  and  gets rental income, there is always a shortfall in the running costs. In 2011   the Club agreed to ‘sponsor’ a bedroom.   and wnen  one room at the top of the house was vacated – and before the new occupier arrived – a team of four Soroptimists moved in with sandpaper, brushes and paint.  It was remarkable how much could be achieved in just one day!  As word spread, local shopkeepers kindly supplied – free of charge – a bedhead, a bedroom chair, pictures, new bedding and towels, a bedside lamp, a mirror, etc, etc.  The pictures show the transformation that took place!

Our continuing support with fundraising especially through the yearly Burns Nights in 2018, 2019, 2020 has funded new bedding fo all new residents. The women  can take their chosen bedding with them , when they move to their own accomodation.