Join us in supporting Ukrainian Refugees

On March 8, the International Day of Women, Soroptimist International of Vacaville voted to send $1,000 to Soroptimist International of Europe’s Defense Relief Fund and quickly challenged other clubs around the world do to the same.
 
“We may not be able to stop what is happening, but we can contribute to relief efforts and I am doing so to honor my father and grandparents,” said our club President Jackie DeVries.
 
President Elect Linda Johnson sent a message and photo of support to the Soroptimist Club of the Ukraine and was thrilled to receive a message back, “Thank you dear sisters!!!!”
 
“Soroptimist means ‘Best for Women,’ not just women in our own little niche of the world, but all women and girls everywhere,” said Linda. “Ukrainian women and children are currently fleeing their country alone while their husbands, sons and brothers are fighting to save their country. While we can’t physically provide assistance we can provide funds to assist neighboring countries in their efforts to provide safe shelter, food, clothing and medical assistance to these women and children.”
 
We used part of our Tuesday meeting to decorate posters of support with messages in both English and Ukrainian. Messages included, “Stay strong sisters,” “Our hearts are with you,” and “Hold on to hope!” The Facebook post included a group photo. Individual photos will be posted soon, and club members were encouraged to share with their friends on Facebook.
 
Jackie said the Russian invasion has affected her deeply.
 
“My father’s boyhood home, Holland, was invaded by the Nazis in World War II. He was not able to escape and had to live in occupied Holland as a young teen. The trauma he and his family suffered is nothing anyone should go through.”
 
Her sister and fellow club member Joy Swank agreed.
 
“Our hearts are aching for the people of Ukraine. We stand united in our commitment to helping women and girls throughout the world,” said Joy. “Sending money to help is the least we can do.  We pray it helps and gives them hope.”
 
Please consider a club donation or a personal donation. If a donation isn’t possible, we urge you to make your own posters and share on Facebook: “A positive ray of light and support in dark times!”
 
The link to SIA’s defense fund is:
https://www.soroptimisteurope.org/.../disaster-relief-fund/

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