Sunderland woman aims to give women living in refuge back their independence this Christmas

A Sunderland woman has started a collection this year to help Wearside Woman In Need give women their independence back this Christmas.
By Candice Farrow
Published 8th Dec 2019, 08:00 BST
Updated 13th Dec 2019, 16:27 BST

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Wearside Women in Need outreach manager Jackie Siggens (middle) with outreach team ahead of Christmas fundraisingWearside Women in Need outreach manager Jackie Siggens (middle) with outreach team ahead of Christmas fundraising
Wearside Women in Need outreach manager Jackie Siggens (middle) with outreach team ahead of Christmas fundraising

Christmas is a time where many people like to give back to the community and for several years Gemma Williamson has chosen local charities to donate her time to over the festive season.

This year she reached out to Wearside Women In Need, and has been working closely with the service and members of the community to give women living in refuge and their families a better Christmas.

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Previously, Gemma has done toy appeals and asked people to donate toys for children, but this year she is asking for vouchers.

Salon staff who volunteered to help Wearside Women in Need. Picture: Gemma WilliamsonSalon staff who volunteered to help Wearside Women in Need. Picture: Gemma Williamson
Salon staff who volunteered to help Wearside Women in Need. Picture: Gemma Williamson

She said: “In the past I’ve asked for second hand toys, but on Christmas Day it’s not always what the kids have asked for, so this year I’m asking for vouchers because it means women and mothers will be able to go and buy what their kids have asked for allowing them to feel more independent while staying at the refuge.”

The appeal officially launched on Wednesday, November 20 and within 24 hours raised £185. The appeal has now raised more than £700 putting Gemma over her £500 target.

Gemma added: “I like to do as much as I can to get the community together in our area. To help people right on our doorstep.

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“It only takes one person to start it off, but it’s the community effort that makes a difference.”

Nail treatments were given to women staying at Wearside Women in Need for free. Picture: Gemma WilliamsonNail treatments were given to women staying at Wearside Women in Need for free. Picture: Gemma Williamson
Nail treatments were given to women staying at Wearside Women in Need for free. Picture: Gemma Williamson

Members of the community have rallied behind Gemma and the work she is doing and local businesses have come forward to offer their services.

Including two salons who have opened their doors to Wearside Women In Need and have given 21 women at the refuge hair and nail treatments completely free.

More than 400 members of the community have come forward to get involved in Gemma’s appeal for vouchers this Christmas to help Wearside Women In Need by joining her Facebook page and she encourages others to get involved.

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