Christmas time for Soroptimists is when we like to celebrate with friends and family.   But also to remember what our organisation is about.   #westandupforwomenand girls

By celebrating our friendship – with an evening of mirth, mulled wine and mince pies.

We did have an entry requirement of course!   Admittance could only be by wearing something sparkly –  including partners.   A few bubbles of Prosecco, plenty of delicious cake kindly donated by Jean and a hilarious poem written by our very own Carole J ensured that we had a wonderful sociable time.

By celebrating our International links.   Because we buy second hand books at Club meetings, we’re continuing to raise money for Friends of Sick Children in Malawi.   This year we bought a wheelchair and four corner chairs.   Club members have also bought these too.

Made by the elves in Blantyre, Malawi, these are specifically made for each child.   Although they look rather unsophisticated compared to UK equipment, they work for the conditions in Malawi.   They are truly life changing for each child and their family.   If you’re interested in finding out more about just how great these are, check out the Friends of Sick Children in Malawi website.   They make great gifts at anytime of year.

By celebrating our Friendship links

We regularly have Zoom sessions with SI Arnhem Oost and Remscheid.   This year we had the chance to use the technology gained during Covid and chat in small groups.   It’s such a pleasure to meet our Sisters this way and hear about what they are doing.   And marvellous Marion created a beautiful card for us to send to SI Blantyre in Malawi.

By using our local links.   Working with Compassionate Kenilworth, we can respond to a request for presents.

Thanks to the generosity of Kenilworth Lions and Club members we’ve collected a whole host of gifts for Christmas.   These will be sent to women and children currently being housed in a local migrant centre.   The small items for children aged 4-14 years should hopefully bring a smile to them and their mums.   We can’t give anything too large as they don’t have any storage space.   Plus, they should be moving onto more suitable housing in the near future.