As last year, we have continued to hold our club meetings over Zoom. However, in November we met in the library and were also able to hold our Christmas lunch. January 2022 saw a return to Zoom! We have also continued with some of the projects that we began during lockdown and added more.
Rainbow Room
The Rainbow Room was set up in North Tees hospital, to provide a place for rest and relaxation for staff. Another has been recently set up in Hartlepool hospital, part of the same trust. Every two months the club provides “luxury” items for these rooms. Items include toiletries, speciality teas and coffees, sweets and chocolate.
Stockton and Billingham Food Bank
For some years we have donated sanitary items to our local food bank as part of our “end period poverty” campaign. As a result of the pandemic, the food bank usage has greatly increased. Every other month, the club donates non-perishable food items, toiletries, cleaning products plus sanitary items. In addition we have provided clothing and bedding in good condition. In December we donated £100 towards Christmas hampers.
A Way Out
For several years we have occasionally supported this local charity which supports vulnerable women, young people and families. In December the club donated hats, scarves, toiletries and sweets. Members doing the shopping in Poundland inspired a further donation of many selection boxes.
New Start Bags
We had obtained funds from the local Police and Crime Commissioner to provide new start bags, containing basic clothing, toiletries and a mobile phone, which would be used to help trafficked victims recover from their ordeal. The final group of 8 bags (of 23 altogether) were passed to the police in December. Since starting this project we have provided 76 bags and 36 phones.
Regional President Charity
One of our members, Joyce Chesney, had planned an afternoon tea to raise money during her year as regional president. Sadly this had to be cancelled but instead a regional raffle enabled her to present a cheque of £600 to Butterwick hospice. The money will be used for specialist mattresses.
Afternoon Tea
On a lovely sunny Sunday in September, members were able to meet for afternoon tea in Sue’s lovely garden. This event raised over £600 for our president’s chosen charity – Teesside Hospice. Chris has been volunteering there for several years.