Dear Editor,
In 2006, the Stephen Lewis Foundation launched the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign. The goal was to raise awareness of the millions of children orphaned by the AIDS epidemic in Africa and to raise funds to assist the grandmothers caring for grandchildren with little or no support. The funds raised provide grandmothers with assistance that includes food, school fees and uniforms for their grandchildren, income-generating projects and social support. The Stephen Lewis Foundation works to keep administration costs at 10 per cent while 90 per cent of the money raised goes to help the grandmothers.
Hundreds of grandmothers groups have been formed in Canada. In 2007 a small group of seven formed what has come to be known as the Lone Pine/Fort Assiniboine Grandmothers. We have raised funds through flea markets, catering and spring teas. As well as raising funds, we have raised community awareness, formed friendships and had fun.
While there are groups in Edmonton and Stony Plain, there are none in the Barrhead/Westlock area. If you are interested in forming a group, go to www.stephenlewisfoundation.org for more information and to find out how to receive a starter kit. You could also contact the Alberta Liaison, Vicki Strang at [email protected] or give me a call at 780-584-2374.
Dorothy Mack
