Stokes Bay WI donates mugs to local community

By Pam Marsden

STOKES BAY WI have supported a local community hub at Leesland Federation in Gosport by providing twenty-five lidded mugs to aid their services; which was generously facilitated by contributions from members for their refreshments that go into ‘Community Chest Funds’.

Some of these funds were used to provide the mugs to the popular community hub for use in their soft play / interaction sessions for babies, toddlers and children; which also offer parents and carers a chance to connect or relax with others on a regular basis. The mugs will further offer comfort and safety for the group whilst they are drinking.

President Angela MacCallum said “If we can give a little back to our community here in Gosport, from just doing the things we enjoy, it benefits everyone. Members enjoy coffee and conversation and it helps others at the same time. We ask everyone to vote on our choice of charity and they unanimously supported the proposal of helping Leesland Federation in Gosport.”

Becky, from Leesland Hub, wrote to the Stokes Bay WI saying: “I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation in support of our community hubs with stay-and-play sessions for babies and toddlers, where children enjoy messy play and interaction, while parents and carers have the chance to relax and connect. Each session also hosts two to three visiting agencies such as school nurses and mental health support teams among many others. This offers families access to valuable support and guidance.”

She concluded: “These hubs are open to the entire Gosport community and have become an essential resource at a time when schools are being asked to provide much more than education alone. Thanks to the donation from Stokes Bay WI we can now offer hot drinks and make the space even more welcoming. For some of our parents a warm drink and a friendly chat can be a lifeline.”

Stokes Bay WI meet in the Parish Centre Alverstoke on the third Tuesday of the month, with each session running from 10am to 12pm with interesting meetings, outings and special events. Readers can see more information on membership or arranging a visit by clicking www.stokesbaywi.co.uk.

PICTURED BY STOKES BAY WI: Member Sue Bates and President Angela MacCallum showcase a selection of mugs that were donated to the Leesland Federation in Gosport.