Local residents are being asked to reflect on International Women’s Day this Saturday, acknowledging a century of women’s achievements.
Darlene Smith, board president of the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre, said the day is one of reflection and celebration.
“We’re asking people to celebrate that in Canada we have made great strides in ensuring equality, although we still have areas of concern,” she said. “In some parts of the world, women are still considered inferior and don’t have the rights men take for granted.”
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Smith said the Women’s Centre has partnered with seven local restaurants to recognize the day and help raise funds for the facility that has been helping women in crisis since 1978.
“Anyone who dines at one of the restaurants March 8 will receive a donation envelope,” she said. “We’re hoping that patrons will give generously.”
Smith said government funding doesn’t cover some essentials and the centre is always looking for an opportunity to help raise what’s necessary.
“Women and children come to us literally with nothing but the clothes on their backs,” she said. “Items as simple as housecoats and slippers are needed. That’s why we’re so grateful for our partners.”
Participating restaurants are Tru’s Grillhouse and Lounge, Chilled Cork, Chatham Breakfast House and Grille, Mama Maria’s Ristorante and Coffee Culture in Chatham, as well as Gatsby’s Grill House and The Black Goose Grill in Wallaceburg,
