CFUW Burlington is participating in the Purses For Margaret project. I was unable to tell you about this because of our cancelled meeting so I shall post this information here  instead.The Purses for Margaret campaign was begun last year in response to the needs of homeless women in the Hamilton area. The aim is to distribute gently used purses filled with personal hygiene items and other necessities.  Homeless women are largely forgotten - there are few facilities for them in Burlington and they are in a very precarious situation.  Many do not feel safe in a shelter but they are at great risk on the streets as well.  At any rate there is very little accommodation for them. They often go to Hamilton  where Mary's Place provides 25 beds; it is full each night and turns away almost 200 women every month.  

So could you contribute a used purse or a bag with a good fastener or zipper and pack it with some sanitary items, a comb, wipes, mitts, hat, snacks, pen, notebook, etc? All these items are available at Dollar Stores.  The bags will be collected at the November General Meeting and taken to Mary's Place.  If you are unable to attend in November, you may certainly bring your purse to the October General Meeting, and, of course, cash donations would be equally welcomed.  I hope you  will join in this worthwhile cause.  If you have questions, please contact me  Rosemary Gagan - at dgagan@cogeco.ca.  Thank you for your time and consideration.