Women's Institute Lights the Way

Festive lights will decorate houses throughout Nova Scotia during the coming week, celebrating Women's Institute Week, Feb. 18 to 24.

Each year, members of the Women's Institute of Nova Scotia (WINS) hold special events to celebrate the founding of the women's organization in Stoney Creek, Ont., in 1897. This year, they will display festive lights in and around their homes.

"The Women's Institutes of Nova Scotia has often been dubbed the rural women's university," said president Winnie Forbes. "It has helped to instil leadership skills in its members through educational and personal development programs for many years."

Founder Adelaide Hoodless, a farm wife in 1897, was discouraged that men knew more about nourishing their livestock than women knew about nourishing their families. She started the Women's Institute to teach women domestic skills, and it has evolved to much more. WINS strives to keep its members current on today's issues and has grown into a worldwide organization of seven million members.

"The Women's Institutes of Nova Scotia has been the backbone of many rural communities, said Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Ernest Fage. "Their contribution to the betterment of their communities and the people who live there is immeasurable."

WINS projects over the last year include promoting literacy and health. Awareness of Nova Scotian agricultural issues is a major focus. WINS continues to hold Farm Safety Day camps, educating children on the hazards of living on or visiting a farm. A cookbook being produced by WINS this year will promote locally grown products.

The Women's Institute is known as an organization that can change with the requirements of the community.

"If something needs to be done locally, often the Women's Institute will fill that need," said Ms. Forbes. "Whether it be organizing a fund-raiser, holding workshops on current topics, or helping to keep a community hall in good repair, WINS members have the skills and the practical knowledge to get things done."

Branch programs feature everything from learning traditional crafts such as quilting, to discussing local and international issues, and health concerns. WINS has something to offer everyone.

WI Week is an opportunity to celebrate the positive contribution the organization continues to have on the lives of its members and their families, and to celebrate a tradition of sharing of skills and information in rural communities.