2025 Making a Better World Initiative Recipients Fill the Trunk
Paula Barry, Connecticut Gamma Food insecurity is one of the top 5 global issues in the world today. It is a critical concern not only on the global stage but right here at home. Beginning in 2021, the sisters of CT Gamma Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa have supported food banks in Hartford, Tolland and Windham Counties through our “Fill the Trunk Initiative”. Each year at our planning meeting, we select 9 area food banks.... one for each of our monthly meetings. (December donations provide holiday baskets/meals through a local charity.) Prior to the monthly meeting, the Gamma sisters who have volunteered to be facilitators (these change monthly), contact the foodbank receiving the “fill the trunk” donations to find out if the facility needs specific food groups or other supplies. This information is shared with chapter members so we can address these special requests. A letter accompanies the donations sharing information about our organization and its altruistic projects. We have received many kind words and heartfelt letters of thanks from the food banks expressing the difference these contributions make in the lives of those who struggle to make ends meet. This initiative is making an impact on the chapter as well. Each member contributes what they can as often as they can. It is not a huge commitment of time or money for members every month, therefore it is sustainable. Everyone has a small part, but together it makes a big impact.
Girls Matter Period
Jan Walker, Arizona Lambda
"Girls Matter Period" is a non-profit organization that empowers girls and women by providing valuable education and washable/reusable feminine hygiene supplies. These 'Personal Packs' enable girls to stay in school and enjoy the dignity they deserve. A 'Personal Pack' includes 2 waterproof bases, 12 absorbent flannel inserts, 2 panties, a wet bag, a washcloth, soap and education/instructions all packed in a colorful cinch sack. The educational piece provides much needed information about the menstrual cycle and how to track it. Volunteers meet in teams to put these packs together. It involves washing, tracing, cutting, sewing, folding, ironing and packing. Members of the Girls Matter Designated Outreach teams travel to visit these countries and focus primarily on education and kit distribution for thousands of girls/women mostly in secondary schools. The men on the team may work with the male students at the schools or in other outreaches (such as farming/gardening, construction of water systems or toilets, distribution of eye glasses and shoes). Because of the help received from this organization, girls are encouraged to finish school and reach for their dreams. Educated young women become competent leaders in their homes and communities. GMP teaches the importance of waiting to have children until girls have partners who are committed 100% to them and their offspring. GMP efforts are not limited to any one country. Although they primarily serve the people of South Africa, their products may be distributed worldwide.