A warm, friendly Hello” to all our pre-lockdown members and to any local lady who might like to join us as we reconvene to enjoy catching up with each other and to look forward to an exciting programme of events from September.
On Wednesday, 21st July, between 12.30 and 2.30p.m., you are all invited to join us for a simple buffet lunch with hot and cold drinks, in the Large Hall of The Spire, South Street, with parking either opposite at Sainsbury’s or in the Central Car Park. There is no charge; for any further details please ring Linda on 07761.495.190.
In March 2020, as a new venture, we numbered fifty-six ladies of eight different nationalities, of various faiths or of no faith, living in Farnham and Aldershot, who’d come together to forge friendships and share simple, inexpensive activities, chosen by members, which included designing and crocheting a personal artefact; henna hand painting; Japanese furoshiki and basic spoken language; short story reading and discussion; a talk by two members on Eid, followed by festive Eid finger food. Our hall hire at The Spire includes the use of a kitchen so we make our own drinks. As we’re an international group, we encourage each other to form a rota for bringing in home-made nibbles of our choice which reflect our cultural diversity and are more exciting than the ubiquitous packet of biscuits!
All our programmed events are held at The Spire on the last Wednesday of the month between 12.30 and 2.30 p.m. In addition, on the second Wednesday occasional group outings can be organised in advance or some members just arrange privately to meet for a walk, a coffee or whatever they’d like to share.
IWG has a strong ethos which includes being available to any woman of any colour, faith, race or social background and, therefore, there is no charge for membership or refreshments (although a pot will be put out if any lady wishes to make a small contribution towards teas, coffees and squashes). The only expenses are for materials used in craft sessions. These will be made known in advance and the Committee can assist any member for whom the sum is problematic.
Our aim is to engender friendship and support throughout our communities in Aldershot and Farnham and, with this in mind, we will continue to build a multi-agency network so that if anyone, particularly a newcomer to the area, experiences practical or personal problems, we can help them find appropriate professional help. We have links to Surrey’s English Language and Family Services, including Home-School Liaison in state schools. Over the past fourteen months, some of our members have made a significant contribution locally through sewing scrubs, masks and bags for the N.H.S.; delivering food parcels; collecting and delivering prescriptions to our fellow citizens in need. Our International Women’s Group also aims to support our communities through ongoing philanthropic endeavours.
Looking forward to seeing many of you on the 21st July, and with our warmest good wishes,
Linda (Chair) and Tehmina (Vice-Chair)
To contact I.W.G.:
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: 01252.716445
Mobile: 07761.495.190
