Soroptimists in the Leigh and Wigan area joined forces to raise funds for the Meru Women’s Garden Project.
Forty members of the two clubs snapped up bargains from the home-grown plants, herbs and vegetables on sale; they also enjoyed a vegetarian-themed buffet supper.
Guest speaker was Pam Warhurst CBE, who hails from the Leigh area, but now lives in Todmorden, West Yorkshire.
On the basis that ‘from small acorns, large oak trees grow’ Pam described her project ‘Incredible Edible’. Members of the local community have planted vegetables and fruit trees in many public spaces throughout Todmorden. These include land around health centres and police stations, as well as derelict areas.
This project benefits the whole community. It is hoped that the food grown by individuals can become part of an economic enterprise selling items in local markets. In addition, it might encourage schools to undertake mini ‘Incredible Edible’ projects.
Angela Holmes (President, SI Wigan) said, “Our successful event raised £259 for the Meru Women’s Garden. This project is supported by Soroptimist clubs throughout our Federation (Great Britain and Ireland). It helps some of the poorest women-led households in the Meru district of Kenya by giving women and girls the chance to earn an income.”
Pat Woodward (President, SI Leigh & District) added, “Our club members, in partnership with City Hearts and Wigan Council, have already planted apple and pear trees in a local park. As the Regional Ambassador for the Meru project I am delighted that we are ‘growing together’, both in Kenya and in our own locality.”