Knitting and cross stitch were the order of the day at a restaurant on Eighth Avenue on April 19.
A group of women from the area were knitting blankets for the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative, which celebrates the legacy of former South African President Nelson Mandela’s birthday.
Mandela Day is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, and is celebrated each year on July 18.
“Basically we are a small part of the 67 Blankets initiative here in Edenvale. We meet once a month at Baffos where we knit and crochet squares or blankets, which are put together and then distributed to the needy,” said Mrs Chris Boyd, an ambassador of the 67 Blankets initiative in Edenvale.
“Most of this current initiative is over, except for laying the blankets out for the challenge to break the Guinness World Record for the largest crocheted blanket.”
Mr Massimo Maiulolo, the owner of the Baffo, said that it was a great initiative.
“The women have met here for the past six months. These activities are important because there’s a need to get Edenvale back on the map,” he said.
The blankets were taken down to the Drakenstein Correctional facility by Stuttafords Van Lines on April 19.
“This initiative is done in conjunction with all correctional centres around the country,” said Mrs Boyd.
Also at the restaurant were three pupils from St Andrews School for Girls, who were helping the volunteers while learning the lost art of knitting.
The three girls, Megan, Cayley and Elena, are taking part in the initiative as part of their community project.
“The making of squares is an ongoing effort and squares, wool donations and blankets will always be welcomed,” said Mrs Boyd.
For more information, contact Mrs Boyd on 072 227 0863.
