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1940s

During the Second World War, the WIs felt that it was important to continue with meetings as much as possible as a way of providing a centre of tranquility and cheerfulness for the members in a sadly troubled world.Evacuees in a village street
The WIs also contributed an enormous amount to the home front. From the outbreak of the war in 1939 they cooperated in caring for evacuees but, as in the First World War, the main contribution was in growing and preserving food. One positive outcome was the formation of the WI college, Denman College, which opened in 1948.
Boiling Jam
1940
The NFWI begins to administer the Ministry of Food's fruit preservation scheme.
1941
The NFWI published a report based on the evacuation survey as a booklet entitled Town Children through Country Eyes.
1943
The subscription to the WI was raised to two shillings and six pence. The NFWI agreed to support Mrs Churchill's 'Aid to Russia Fur Scheme' by making coats, waistcoats, hoods and caps lined with rabbit fur for Russian women. In two and a half years, 2,071 fur lined garments were sent to Russia via the Red Cross.		Knitting for refugees
Mrs Churchill also came to the WI's Consultative Council in 1943 and admired examples of the work.  Some garments were also on display at an exhibition organised by the Society for Cultural Relations with USSR.
The AGM met for the first time since 1939.  Resolutions discussed included urging the government that equal facilities for full education at all levels be provided in town and country, and a demand that men and women should receive equal pay for equal work.Produce Guild Demonstration
 
1945
The AGM decided to form a WI College. There are now 6,033 WIs.
1946
Activities included the first Combined Arts Festival; Lady Denman retired and Lady Albemarle was elected NFWI Chairman. The Carnegie United Kingdom Trust (CUKT) provided a grant to start WIs in the Channel Islands.
Queen Elizabeth watching canning of produce
1947
Operation Produce was launched during this year and the first WI in the Channel Islands was formed. Rural midwives were now able to use analgesics.
1948
The WI college, Denman College, opened its doors to students this year and the WI subscription was raised to three shillings and six pence (one shilling to the National Federation, one shilling six pence to the county federation and one shilling to the WI).		Welcome Food Parcels

1949
The first WI was formed in the Isle of Man. The total number of WIs was up to 7,281.