After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, March 8 became a national holiday.

The day was then predominantly celebrated by the socialist movement and communist countries until it was adopted in 1975 by the United Nations.

Forster-Tuncurry Quota International – Quota celebrates 99-years in 2017 – celebrated the day on March 8 with a brunch at Tuncurry Sporties.

More than 120 women from throughout the Great Lakes attended the brunch to hear Ronald McDonald House NSW fundraising and marketing manager, Donna Horsey speak about the the organisation.

In the past 12 months more than 840 families with sick or injured children took advantage of Ronald McDonald House accommodation in Newcastle and Tamworth.

Of these, 226 families were from the Mid North Coast who spent 2085 nights in these facilities to be near their children.

And, last year 180 families took advantage of the retreat in Forster.

The first Ronald McDonald House outside America was built at Camperdown in 1981.

Today there are 15 houses throughout Australia (except the two territories).

“The Forster retreat brings so much joy to families,” Donna said.

“The community is fantastic and very supportive,” she said.

A complimentary package of goodies valued at more than $300 (donated by local businesses) is part of the Forster retreat experience, along with a knitted or crochet bear or blanket.

“It’s the little touches which mean so much to the families.”