For 15 years, the Soroptimists from Bratislava have been dedicated to supporting visually impaired children from socially disadvantaged families. Through their fundraising efforts, they provide children from a special boarding school in Bratislava with the opportunity to attend a recuperative stay by the sea, improving both their physical health and emotional well-being.
Many of these children, including six who are completely blind, live at the boarding school for extended periods, often separated from their families for weeks or months. The experience can be challenging, making opportunities like this trip even more valuable. The goal for the upcoming year is to send two more children on this transformative journey.
To raise the necessary funds, the Soroptimists organised a charity wine auction. They reached out to 25 winemakers, explaining the purpose of the event and introducing the work of Soroptimist International of Europe and its mission. As a result, 15 winemakers generously donated a total of 85 bottles of wine. The wines were personally collected, cataloged, and prepared for auction at the Ján Cikker Museum in Bratislava. A professional moderator was hired to conduct the event, and extensive efforts were made to invite as many guests as possible.
Despite these difficulties, all the wines were sold, generating a total of €1,690. The school’s director and teachers, who are familiar with the children’s social backgrounds, carefully selected the beneficiaries.
Soroptimists from Bratislava consider this project a great success. Not only did they achieve their fundraising goal, but they also ensured that two children will have the opportunity to see the sea for the first time, form new friendships, and experience the joy and healing benefits of a specialized camp. The initiative highlights the profound impact of community support and demonstrates how collective efforts can bring life-changing experiences to those in need.