Cherry Valley WI gives sweet thanks to first responders

In celebration of the 120th anniversary of Women’s Institutes, Cherry Valley WI members delivered dozens of cookies to first responders in Prince Edward County.

Members Maureen Finnegan, Jean Burrows, Elaine Marshall, Dini Kempenaar and Lynda Westervelt also delivered $120 to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Communicatons Co-ordinator Briar Boyce.

The local branch of nine women decided there would be no better way to celebrate than to thank first responders – firefighters, paramedics, police officers for their loyality and dedication to the safety of ‘home and country’ (the WI mandate).

The WI has been active in the County since 1908 championing numerous projects, accessible transportation, support of youth groups and organizations, scholarships, not-for-profit agencies, parades, cemeteries, Hospice, Christmas Angel Campaign and other community ventures. Its main fundraiser is the annual Art and Craft Sale at the Picton Fairgrounds, entering its 34th year this summer.

The seven branches that make up the Prince Edward District Women’s Institute contribute more than 10,000 volunteer hours per year.