ORONO – Women of the World, a support group for international women sponsored by the University of Maine’s Office of International Programs, invites local women to join them for a series of ethnic lunches during the spring semester.

WOW gathers at noon the second Monday of each month at the Church of Universal Fellowship in Orono for a lunch in which women from a different country or culture prepare a traditional meal.

The meal is followed by a program featuring some aspect of that culture. The cost of the meal is $4 and young children are welcome to attend free of charge.

Besides providing a forum for women to celebrate and preserve their cultures, WOW is dedicated to giving women – especially those who are new to the area – an opportunity to learn about Maine, practice English, and learn about local facilities for health care, child care and religious worship.

The women also participate in activities such as group trips, morning coffee breaks and small group meetings for those who share interests like quilting or cooking.

The group includes UMaine faculty, staff, students, wives of students and faculty, and other international women from Greater Bangor.

Women from Brazil, Canada, Cameroon, China, France, Germany, Iran, Japan, the United States and Vietnam have participated in the group.

Mireille Le Gal, an administrative assistant in the Office of International Programs, said that 180 women have attended WOW events in the past few years.

Usually, 35-40 women attend the lunches.

Le Gal, a native of France, said she enjoys the lunches.

“I think it’s a great way to learn about other countries and traditions and to discover new foods,” she said.

Five lunches and a tea party are scheduled for the spring semester:

. Jan. 14: Dutch treat, Rijstafel.

. Jan. 28: tea party at Alice Smith’s, 9-11:30 a.m., RSVP requested, call Shirin at 667-9619 or Lily at 945-5538.

. Feb. 11: Chinese lunch.

. March 11: Potato feast.

. April 8: April in Paris.

. May 6: Picnic basket. Women should bring enough to share with one or two.

For more information about WOW and its programs, contact the Office of International Programs at 581-3423.