Knitters spread warmth

CRAFTERS of Pinehaven Lodge met on Friday, June 9 to bring their toys and knitted items to be handed over for distribution. The crafters are a group of ladies who are joined by the love of charity work, who use their sewing and crocheting skills.

Also read: Charity knitters give winter warmth to men’s shelter

After a few knitathons, the ladies gathered their collection to help baby homes keep their residents warm this winter.

Speaking to the Highway Mail, Celia Niederhofter of the crafters said they are pleased to witness the growth of their group.

“I moved here in Jan, and I was invited to the Pinehaven Knitter’s tea, and I got to speak to one of the members – Joan Botha – and asked her if we have a crafters group here at the lodge – she said we didn’t. We then put up a notice to invite people so we could form the group – we started off with six ladies. We knit, crochet and make toys that go to the Pinehaven Society. The work is then distributed to a selection of charity organisations. We meet twice a month where we knit, chat, bring our work and hand it over,” she said.

The ladies also convey their skills to each other during their meetings. “With crocheting, there are different skills, and we share our knowledge and tips on how to do certain patterns and ideas,” said Niederhofter.

For the past four months, the crafters have been sending their contributions, and they decided to meet for their recent contribution in order to celebrate and appreciate their work.

Responsible for the distribution, Jean Senogles said the contributions are for the baby homes in the Upper Highway area as well as a home for the disabled in the Mariannhill area.

Also read: Learners wrap up warm challenge

Senogles said the past distributions have been an eye-opener on the importance of their contributions as they were received with such gratitude.

“When we handed over the contribution to the Baby House Westville, they expressed their gratitude and said it was a blessing – they said it was made with love. The little ones in the homes depend on donations. So when they get the clothings and items donated to them, they are overwhelmed and they really do appreciate them. So whatever love is put in while we make these items, goes out there, and it is much appreciated.”

The crafters ended their day sharing stories of gratitude for their contributions with a cup of tea.

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