SI Southport’s newest project is ‘Smalls for All’ – identified by one of our newest members, Mary McDonagh. ‘Smalls for All’ is a young charity set up in 2010 by Maria McNamara, to help vulnerable women and children in orphanages and displacement camps (IDP) in various parts of Africa. The aim is to improve the health and security, and restore the dignity of women and children in Africa and as a result put people in a better economic and social position. The charity collects and distributes underwear, both new pants and new or gently worn bras to those who need it most, including those suffering from medical conditions like fistula. Underwear is seen as a status symbol and ensures women are less vulnerable. In addition, it also supports grassroots, sustainable projects with local ownership and helps fund the education of a small number of children

Following on from last year’s success the Alchemy Centre, which is part of Parenting 2000 in Southport, will be open again during the festive period. Volunteers and staff at the centre serve hot meals and beverages to the homeless community and those who have financial problems. The Christmas Shelter will be open from Friday 23rd December to Tuesday 27th between 9am and 2 pm. They are also very grateful to receive donations of food, toiletries and clothing.  Southport members gathered in our Club Room to pack 55 bags of toiletries for the homeless this Christmas and also warm clothing.  

Congratulations to member Arlene Allan, who recently celebrated 25 years as a Soroptimist in the Southport Club.

To celebrate Membership Month in May, members of Soroptimist International Southport had a stand at The Atkinson, Southport’s arts, culture and heritage centre. Members gave out leaflets asking the question “Ask Me Why I’m a Soroptimist”, answered questions on the organisation and raised the profile of SI.  Photos and articles on the stand showed how members shared fun and friendship whilst fundraising, giving service and undertaking projects with a local, national and international impact.

SI Southport is growing! At the final meeting of her presidential year, President Heather inducted five new members into SI Southport. We are delighted to welcome Valerie Frampton, Pam Foey, June Williams, Lesley Winsland and Dianne Harrison to the Club. We also welcome a sixth new member, Agnes Ng, who was inducted by our new President, Elaine Tenneson, at the first meeting of the new SI year.