Soroptimist International Winchester supports two solar charities, Solar Aid and Little Sun. Both
of whom use solar light products to light up those countries in Africa as the sun disappears in the early evening. It gives the opportunity for students to continue study at home by naturally powered light rather than kerosene lamps which can be dangerous and costly. As lamps improve this can be taken to a wider community such as lighting up a village, clinics etc.
Funds are important to keep the facility going and the club organised a Solar Tea in a member’s garden to commit to our annual donations. 30 guests sat down to a sumptuous tea with help from the solar project group, diverse sandwiches, many home-baked cakes, a selection of teas and with the sun shining, it was an enjoyable afternoon.
Further funds were raised through a raffle and local produce, home made items etc. The total raised was over £600.
In addition we were able to introduce Martha to the event. Martha is a student working on her Duke of Edinburgh Award and as part of her community work she helped with the set up of the event, looked after the drinks table, served at table, helped with the breakdown, washing up and took an 
interest in the Solar lamps. She also baked cakes
for the stand and contributed a washing up bowl with cleaning items, ready to give to one of the women who we support through the Women’s Refuge when leaving for her own home. This is another part of the Soroptimist community support. We were delighted to present her with a certificate for her work. Gina Bird, membership officer said, ‘We like to give youngsters the opportunity for volunteer work which in turn gives them the chance to meet different people and experience other working environments’. We are also delighted that her mum has chosen to join the club. It was also a pleasure to have members from other clubs in the region.
Soroptimist International of Winchester & District supports the women’s Refuge in Winchester and also the Trinity Centre, along with lobbying Government for women’s rights and many other projects in the UK and overseas, transforming the lives of women and girls. It is a global women’s organisation and celebrated 100 years in October 2021. The Winchester club celebrated 60 years in 2022.
There will be an open informal morning at Turtle Bay Restaurant in Winchester on 25 August from 11am to 1pm and we would love to see you there for a drink and a chat!
