Springfield, MA (7/6/2022) –– Following several successful “Power of the Purse” events in other communities, The Dora D. Robinson Women’s Leadership Council, an affiliate group of United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV), has plans for a collection and distribution event that will serve women in Holyoke, South Hadley, and Granby.
“We are seeking donations of new or gently used purses as well as toiletries and other useful items to fill them. Anyone who would like to donate or volunteer is welcome to contact us for details. We will ensure that the filled pocketbooks get to local non-profits that serve girls and women, and they will in turn get them in the hands of the women who need them in Holyoke, South Hadley, and Granby,” said Alice Buckner, Director of Resource Development.
Each purse contains toiletries, cosmetics, hygiene products, words of encouragement, and small gifts, as well as keychains with lists of local social service resources. Each purse is unique.
As one recent recipient noted, “I had had a hectic day, then I saw all this activity near my building. I met the United Way staff and they invited me to volunteer for the Power of the Purse project. It was so much fun to be part of a team, and to be able to help other people too! It got me outside of myself and changed my perspective on my own problems. And I actually received a purse myself; I’m surprised how much more confident I feel about myself with it, and I’ve already used some of the resource contacts.”
The Holyoke Power of the Purse collection, packing, and distribution will take place in early August. If you would like more information about Power of the Purse program or any of UWPV’s other direct services, please contact Jennifer Kinsman at jkinsman@uwpv.org