HSMAI-South Florida donates to Women In Distress – May 2009

As part of our on-going efforts for community service, the South Florida Chapter of HSMAI recently held an amenities/toiletries drive on behalf of “Women In Distress” (WID). This organization has approximately 30 women in their shelter setting at any given time. They also have about 150-200 participants that come to their Family Center on a weekly basis where they provide Advocacy and Group Counseling.

We contributed collected samples of shampoos, soaps, cosmetics, and the like to donate to the women and their families. Attendees at our May lunch meeting at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina brought bags, boxes, and baskets of items. A portion of our name badge desk was manned by Donna McCarthy (Jungle Queen) who is our chapter’s Director of Community Service this year along with Jennifer Stewart from Women In Distress.

In thanking our HSMAI members and attendees for their generosity, Jennifer Stewart, Director of Development with WID, stated: “Women In Distress values our relationship with HSMAI. Your support through the years, most recently through this drive, directly benefits the women and children living in our emergency shelter.”

Thanks to everyone who came and donated and hope you’ll participate in our community service efforts again in the future. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.