A much valued volunteer who has run the Umbrella Family group for more than six years, has organised her last meeting – and the group is now looking for a replacement.
Ela Orlinska started helping at the group in 2013 and has been instrumental in turning it into a flourishing body, which has helped many feel welcome in Halton.
She has organised a lot of events, including Polish food, trips out and for the REAL Father Christmas to visit the children.
The International Family Club – Rainbow Umbrella – meets once a month on Wednesday evenings, from 4 30pm to 6 30pm. at St John’s Church Hall, near Victoria Park, and the next one will be in September.
Halton Borough Cllr Keith Morley, who has always supported the group, and has recently become its chairman, said: “We are always looking for more members. It is a very welcoming group and families who originate from anywhere and now live in Halton can attend.
“We will miss Ela and her enthusiasm and drive. Anyone who wants to permanently take over can contact me on keith.morley@halton.gov.uk for a chat.”
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Health and Wellbeing, Cllr Marie Wright, joined Keith in paying tribute to Ela.
“She has worked very hard for the families for a number of years and will be missed by everyone.”
The committee bought her a personalised cheese board, flowers and a gift token as a gesture of thanks.
In the regular meetings, families of different nationalities, mostly from Poland, also from Turkey and Slovakia, living in Halton meet up: the children play together or do arts and crafts with Halton Borough Council Children’s Centre staff.
There are also opportunities to discuss useful subjects like healthcare, Brexit and education opportunities.
For more info. email: umbrellahalton@outlook.com or log onto www.facebook.com/Umbrella-Halton, www.facebook.com/teczowyparasol