SWINDON Soroptimists have presented Christmas gift shoe boxes to the Swindon Nelson Trust Women’s Centre for the third year in a row.

The boxes are for the vulnerable women who use the centre, many of whom face hardship and are unlikely to get many Christmas gifts.

Using items collected by the members of the Swindon Soroptimist Club, plus donations from Marlborough Ladies Who Latte and Live Laugh Love groups, 25 boxes were wrapped and filled at club member Gillian Reed’s house last week.

Lydia Cardew, the project co-ordinator for the club, said: “These women have tough challenges.

“We wanted to ensure that they knew someone was thinking of them. We try to make the boxes useful and fun, with items such as gloves, soap and shampoo, as well as a Christmas gift, crackers and chocolate.”

Swindon Soroptimists are part of an international voluntary women’s organisation dedicated to improving the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment or enabling opportunities.

The club also donated Christmas puddings, mince pies and biscuits for the centre’s Christmas meal.

The service was launched in January 2014 by Baroness Corston and the centre provides a lifeline for women who are homeless, addicted or at risk of involvement with the criminal justice system.

It offers a wide range of services, ranging from practical help, support in dealing with other agencies, one to one counselling, group activities and peer support.

The Nelson Trust’s ultimate goal is to reduce re-offending and help women to become safe, confident and free from abuse, addiction and other dependencies.

Christina Line, the team lead at the centre, said: “Thank you Soroptimists, this is amazing, thank you so much for your support.”

Visit sigbi.org/swindon-and-district.

or email siswindon.soroptimists@gmail.com