The Apple Route Grannies and the Trent Hills Grannies, both chapters of Grannies for Africa, recently held their annual jewelry sale at the community hall of Trinity St. Andrews United Church with proceeds being donated to the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
“Our goal was to raise between $7,000 to $10,000,” said Bonnie Russell – a member of the Trent Hills Grannies for Africa chapter. “All of the jewelry, purses and scarves have been donated for today’s sale.”
Russell explained where the dollars raised will go.
This is the first year the Trent Hills Grannies and the Apple Route Grannies chapters have done this fundraiser together.
“It’s always been a big event, we have lost a few volunteer members along the way, so we connected with the Apple Route Grannies this year to help us continue the event and use this space in Brighton,” added Russell.
When asked why she is involved, Enns said she was inspired by Stephen Lewis.
Both chapters support the Stephen Lewis Foundation. The Foundation was created with the express purpose of supporting community-led organizations working on the frontlines of the HIV epidemic in countries across sub-Saharan Africa. When the HIV epidemic swept across the continent of Africa, it took the lives of nearly an entire generation – 35 million perished – which left their children alone and vulnerable. With little or no support, it was the grandmothers of Africa who stepped in to care for these children. They launched the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign in 2006, in response to the emerging crisis faced by grandmothers in Africa as they struggled to raise millions of children orphaned by AIDS. For more information about this foundation – Visit the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
When asked why the Grannies are inspired to support this foundation, Janet Enns – a member of the Apple Route Grannies chapter said this, “Stephen Lewis is such an amazing person, ambassador and humanitarian. His explanation of how a whole generation is dying of AIDS and its Grandmothers who are taking on the burden of raising their orphaned grandchildren.”
Enns explained why the campaign speaks to local members.
Are you new to the area and want to get involved? Both chapters are currently seeking new members.
For more information about the Grannies for Africa chapter near you, in Brighton visit the Apple Route Grannies website at www.appleroutegrannies.weebly.com or for the Trent Hills Grannies call Bonnie Russell (705)632-0035.
Written by Alicia Vandine
