The project began in a conversation between Ron, one of our newest Rotarians, and a Deacon in Victoria. He mentioned that during a meal program at Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver they sometimes gave out hats, gloves, and socks if they receive a random donation; but nothing was structured. What a good idea, Ron thought and, being a man of action, he promptly called the Maundy Café at Christ Church. They were very excited and said yes, they know where the need is greatest and would love to participate with us. Ron brought this to the Projects Committee at Rotary Arbutus and it was approved in a flash.
Next Ron and his partner Judith established a list of contents that are most needed and then Ron set about finding suppliers that could donate or provide items at the lowest prices. The Club and its members would cover the costs. Ron personally covered $250 worth of items. Next came the making up of “packages”. With a ban on indoor gatherings due to the pandemic, Ron and Judith did all the assembly themselves.
Here is Ron’s latest report:
“Hello fellow Rotarians, and friends: As promised, here is the update and information on the Sock Project. As of today, November 19th, I am pleased to report that the socks and purses (for ladies) are complete. A very special thanks to Yoonhi for accessing the purses (notEuropean Man Bags) for the ladies, and to my lovely partner and Victoria Rotarian Judy (from across the Salish Sea) for lending a woman's touch to the whole process! There are 16 purses and 44 Socks! The only thing left is to coordinate with Vienne at the Maundy Cafe as to the best date for dropping the goods off and we are just firming up how they would decide who gets the purses and socks.
They are very enthusiastic about the project, and I see this being expanded to at least double next year. I will ask them to get a couple of photos at the Cafe on the days they are handing out the purses and socks.
From a personal note, I have found this to be a very interesting and satisfying little project. I look forward to being able to do this with the involvement of more of our fellow Rotarians in the future once the Pandemic is under better control. Thank you for the privilege of being a part of Rotary and for all your kind assistance. If you wish a complete list of what is in the socks and purses, please let me know and I will forward it separately.
Kindest regards, Ron Fulton
PS As to the contents in the socks and purses, Judy and I would love to expand the programme using medium sized backpacks that would accommodate more items, including small fleece blankets. We did put Ikea fleece coverups in the purses this year for the women. Thank you for all your guidance.
