Saturday of Service is a day when Soroptimists throughout the world carry out service projects to emphasize and provide visibility to our organization. The date is chosen to be as near International Women's Day, March 8th, as possible.

In recognition of Saturday of Service over the years, Soroptimist International of Watsonville has replanted gardens and painted rooms and offices at the PVShelter, volunteered at the local food bank, and held day-long fundraising events.

One meeting a month, our members bring unopened bags of rice and beans for donation to our local food bank. Why rice and beans? These are the most sought after food items by the local food bank.

The Pajaro Valley Shelter (PV Shelter), located in Watsonville, provides temporary housing and other services to homeless women and children. Their goal is to assist women to find employment and access to other resources to achieve financial stability, allowing the women to independently provide food and shelter for themselves and their families. Meanwhile, they provide shelter and a safe environment for the women and their children until that goal can be achieved.

Soroptimist International of Watsonville recognizes that PV Shelter is improving the lives for many women and girls in our Community. We routinely inquire as to the needs of the women and children who are currently residents at PV Shelter, and at one Club meeting a month, members donate items such as toiletries and gently used items to help satisfy those needs.

For more information, e-mail our projects coordinator for more details.