A4A SISL Update Jun 23 (1) Please click on the link to see the charity’s two year project with adolescent mothers and its Grains for Growth project.

At our June meeting we were very pleased to welcome Natalia, a member of S I Yerevan – a club in the European Federation. Natalia told us about the history of her club and her work as a doctor including her research into the genetics of Mediterranean fever and the treatment of Covid.

The club has supported Emmeline’s Pantry – a foodbank with a difference – for several years. Four members were pleased to be able to help with stalls, refreshments and a raffle at the charity’s fundraising Disney Day on a lovely sunny day in May.

Nicola, CEO and co-founder of SALVE spoke at our May Club meeting. The charity has been supporting children living on the streets of Jinja, Eastern Uganda, and their families since 2008. There are over 600 children living on the streets of Jinja and another 3,000 that turn to the streets for work. A team of Ugandan social workers offer counselling, support, medical care and education. They build relationships with the children and, where possible, return them to their family or to a foster home. We were pleased to be able to make a donation to this very worthwhile charity.

14 members (and five dogs) enjoyed a walk through Worsley Woods – and were joined by three more members for lunch afterwards. Thanks to Alison for arranging a lovely day out.

We had a very interesting, informative meeting at the Pankhurst Centre. Manchester Women’s Aid has greatly expanded its  services over the past few years. As well as running the five refuges, there are  two houses to help support women fleeing domestic abuse. Counselling services are provided but more are needed and  we were pleased to be able to give a donation for a session. Members also enjoyed a tour of the Heritage Museum.   Thank you to Susan for arranging the visit and refreshments. Rose Marginson

President Sue welcomed members, friends and guests to S I Manchester’s 97th Charter Lunch on Sunday 5th March. In her traditional toast to the City and Ports of Manchester Sue reminded us that ‘In this life things don’t always go to plan … but it is how we respond that matters’ Barbara Blaber, club member and managing director of Act4Africa (one of the club’s projects) proposed the toast to Soroptimist International and Denise Parker, President of S I South Lancashire, responded. The guest speaker was Lorraine Worsley-Carter, High Sheriff of Greater Manchester who gave us a very informative insight into her role. We were please to be joined by Soroptimists from eight clubs – Stockport & District, Leigh & District, Liverpool, Ashton under Lyne, Bolton, Lancaster, Southport and Widnes. Honorary member Kathleen Beavis sent greetings – Success in all your service. Always remember to ensure

We had a fabulous and memorable evening on Saturday 18th February. Many thanks to Fiona, her family and the members who pulled out all the stops to make “ Fiona’s Annual Pancake Party “ a massive success. Lovely Food, Delicious Pancakes, Games and Drinks flowing ! Lots of fun, friendship and pancakes raised much needed funds for the projects we support. I hope for repeat performance next year so all members who missed this year and non members who fancy becoming members for the experience, can join us for Fun Friendship and Fundraising. Liz Aniteye