Editor's choice November 2011

November 2011 Balsall Heathan

ANAWIM Celebrates Silver Jubilee

An organisation that began life through three nuns befriending prostitutes in the hope of offering the women help and friendship has celebrated its 25th anniversary. Called ANAWIM and started in 1986 the name of the organisation is an Aramaic word meaning the poorest of the poor. The three sisters Maisie, Magdalene and Kay of Our Lady of Charity who founded the organisation, began offering support and help to the women who worked in the estimated 25 brothels that were based along and near Mary Street. 25 years later and the organisation has helped thousands of women. It continues to help vulnerable women from all walks of life, many of whom have multiple needs.

Helping to celebrate the occasion, special guest of honour Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Len Gregory and Deputy Lady Mayoress unveiled a memorial bench and took part in a tree planting ceremony to honour the vision of the three sisters who began the important work.

The Deputy Lord Mayor said of the occasion, “It’s been an absolutely fantastic day; ANAWIM is a truly inspirational organisation. The people here are so wonderful. The volunteers give all of their time and listen without being judgemental which I think is a tremendous asset. I’m delighted at being able to be here and I have to give a big thanks to all the volunteers as well because without volunteers most organisations would have some problems in operating.”

Enda Gorman who worked for ANAWIM for 19 years said of her involvement in the organisation, “I think it’s a privilege to have been able to work with the women and be beside them for so many years”.

Until recently the future of the organisation was not certain, but through funding provided by the National Offender Management Service and the Corston Independent Funders’ Coalition, ANAWIM will be able to continue its work for another year.

Project manager Joy Doal said “We are celebrating our 25th silver jubilee this year, which in these times of short-term funding is quite an achievement. This year will see us supporting another 195 women to turn their lives around. It’s great to have some good news.”