Celebration Retirement estate’s knitting club hosts colourful exhibition
Retirement estate in Northgate sees much support from the community as its members knit for good cuases.
Teddy bears, scarves, beanies, blankets and other clothes were displayed in their hundreds at Celebration Retirement Estate.
Residents and their families filtered through the hall all morning on May 20, as bubbly women from the estate’s knitting club showed off their colourful creations. Though nothing knitted was for sale, the group raised money and awareness for charities.
“Everything we do is for the less fortunate,” club co-founder Emma Beard explained. “We have some raffles and sales of knitting equipment going on today, but everything we knit goes to three groups: 67 Blankets, the maternity and paediatric wards at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, and Toys for Joy.”
She explained she and Liz van Niekerk started the club about a year ago when retired residents were hesitant to venture out of their homes after the lockdown. “Every week we see between 50 and 70 people and knit 60 to 70 squares, as well as jerseys and teddy bears.”
For Mariaan Lambert, these sessions of knitting and talking is much fun. “I was happy to sit at home and read but knitting means I can talk with friends simultaneously,” she said. “I also felt that I must do something when I heard about those in need.”
Cheryl Beukes was proud to show off some of the teddies she had made. “For this one, I tried a different pattern, which was not easy,” she said, holding up a fluffy one with a smile. “I was tired of using the same patterns so I wanted a challenge. I have been knitting since my gran taught me when I was four.”
Beard said anyone interested in finding out more or donating to the knitting club, can contact her.
Details: Emma Beard 082 920 0726.
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