About
In 2015, we started out as “Project Shoebox” and one person’s commitment to fill shoeboxes with everyday essentials (and little luxuries) for women and children who’d be spending Christmas in emergency refuge accommodation. With the help of friends and colleagues, 24 shoeboxes were made up, distributed and greatly appreciated; not just for their contents but for the care and attention that went into every box.
Since then, our work has continued to develop in size and ambition, thanks to a growing network of supporters who want to help in a meaningful and highly personal way.
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As we have expanded into other vitally important areas and extended our reach we’ve become The Phenomenal Women. In 2019 we delivered nearly 400 Christmas gift bags as well as new baby kits, new home kits, Easter presents and all sorts of helpful things along the way.
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We remain an informal voluntary organisation, powered by kindness and ingenuity.
We’re effective but we could do more – and the need has never been greater.
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Starting a new life from nothing is incredibly hard and painful. The Phenomenal Women's philosophy is that the easier it is being out of an abusive relationship, the less likely these woman are to go back. If we can give them some new friends and opportunities on the way all the better
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We believe all women can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Christmas
and other events
Our biggest event is Christmas gift bags containing toiletries and gifts for women and children spending the festive season in a refuge. In 2019 we delivered nearly 400 boxes, as well 150 travel size emergency toiletry packs, 2 new baby kits and winter coats for an entire refuge.
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We have also provided Easter chocolate for every child in the refuges we support and International Women's Day party for three refuges.
YEAR ROUND
Throughout the year we provide emergency supplies to families arriving in the refuge with no personal items. Toiletries, clothes, toys, bedding - whatever is needed.
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We also support workshops at three refuges giving the women access to new activities including nutrition workshops, singing, dancing, art and a chance to socialise and find their own support network