one by one® story: Soroptimist International of the Tri Cities
Towels, dishes and warm blankets are household items many of us take for granted—unless you’re a woman who just fled to escape domestic violence. After finding a safe home, this courageous lady (we’ll call her Heather) had three children to care for and little to call her own. That’s where Soroptimist International of the Tri Cities steps in—for Heather and countless other women. From pots and pans to sheets and cleaning supplies, Soroptimist provides all the necessary supplies their clients need when moving into a new home. As a parting gift to remember them by, Soroptimist volunteers also give each woman they help a branded keychain gift.
Whether the women are escaping unimaginable circumstances or they’re new adults aging out of foster care, household supplies are provided through Soroptimist’s “free store” called Bea’s Kloset. Bea’s Kloset is where women can “shop” for what they need in their new home.
Best for women, by other women
Soroptimist means “best for women.” As their website says, “Soroptimists are women at their best helping other women to be their best.”
Heather never thought other people really cared about her or would be willing to help. When Soroptimist came through with much of what she needed for herself and her children, Heather burst into tears. She couldn’t believe other women wanted to help her.
Soroptimist also helps teens who have nowhere to go after they age out of foster care. Once they turn 18, many of these young women must move out of their foster family’s home and get a place of their own. With little to no funds to buy necessary supplies, Soroptimist steps in to help.
A memorable parting gift
Soroptimist staff wanted to give the women they help something to remember them by. Thanks to a grant from 4imprint’s one by one® program, Soroptimist purchased branded keychain gifts for each woman whose life they touched.
“We want to say a huge thanks to 4imprint for that grant. The women we’ve given the keychains to have mentioned how thoughtful of a gift it is. The keychains help them remember us and remember who to put other women in touch with,” said Julie Knisley, Soroptimist International of the TriCities member.
A note from Cheryl
It’s wonderful to hear what an impact Soroptimist makes by providing everyday household items to women in need. We’re honoured to play a small part in Soroptimist’s work by providing branded keychain gifts. To learn more about 4imprint’s one by one® grant program, visit https://onebyone.4imprint.ca/.