TWO charities supporting vulnerable women expressed their thanks for the "generous" efforts of Winchester Rotary.
Nearly £30,000 was raised for Trinity Winchester’s Women’s Services and Hope Street during Deborah Macartney’s presidential year at Winchester Rotary.
Funds were raised through activities such as “An Evening with Dan Snow” at the Theatre Royal in January and a firewalk. Sales of Rotarian Diana Brooks’ Smokey the Cat children’s books also contributed to the final total.
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Claire Hubberstey, CEO of One Small Thing, which manages Hope Street, said: “We are extremely grateful to Winchester Rotary for the huge efforts they have made to raise funds for Hope Street.
“This funding allows us to provide women and their children with holistic support that addresses their needs in a safe and welcoming environment, allowing them the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
“We recognise that women who enter the justice system are often led there by a long history of trauma, and separating mothers and children further compounds that trauma. This pioneering approach is helping to break cycles, keep families together, and improve outcomes for society.
“We hope the model we are piloting at Hope Street will demonstrate how a compassionate approach towards women in the justice system can have a transformative impact, and become a blueprint for change nationally.”
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Sue McKenna, Trinity’s chief executive, said: “This incredibly generous donation from Winchester Rotary came along at absolutely the right time. The cost-of-living crisis has exacerbated the demand for our services and, sadly, we have seen an increase in domestic abuse within the home.
“With this new funding, Trinity is now able to offer extra support and counselling to the many women who need to find a safe place to come to. They will find a warm welcome from our experienced and trained trauma-informed staff, a space to escape social isolation, take part in groups and fun projects, building friendships and a network of support.
“I was touched to hear this message last week from one of our ladies, ‘when people are isolated for whatever reason, they just need someone to talk to.’ So, thank you Rotary, they are making a real impact on people’s lives.”
Previous president, Deborah visited both organisations to present the cheques, accompanied by a group of Winchester Rotarians, including current president Les Haswell.
Deborah said: “It has been an honour for us to fundraise for Trinity and Hope Street and we hope our partnership will continue. These charities are making such a difference to our community by improving the quality of life for women needing to escape domestic abuse, while also providing a structure for women and children to build a stable and safe future - a future with hope.”
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