67 Blankets For Nelson Mandela Day eye world record

Twenty-seven kilometres scarves and a Guinness World Record for every year that Nelson Mandela spent in prison. What better way to celebrate Madiba’s 100th year?

The remarkable charity drive, 67 Blankets, ensures that thousands of needy people have access to blankets and scarves. They are on a mission to once again attain a coveted world record – and create kilometres of scarves that will be distributed during the coldest months of the year.

This world record attempt at creating the world’s longest scarf will take place during Mandela Month on July 29, and the scarf will be on display at the Mandela Capture Site in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal.

“This attempt will show the entire world what our 67 Blankets family is doing, stitch by stitch, to keep the legacy of our late great Tata Madiba (and the ideals for which he stood) alive,” said Carolyn Steyn, founder of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day.

“For the past three years we have churned out thousands of scarves for our SSS (Secret Scarves Shhh…!!!) initiative which we do every July during Mandela Month. India currently holds the record for the longest scarf in the world – [measuring in] at 14km…”

This year will also see the KnitWits For Madiba make history by creating the largest portrait blanket in the world depicting the face of Nelson Mandela. This will, in turn, set the pace for yet another Guinness World Record in July.

The deadline to get all scarves to 67 Blankets headquarters is 25 June. Once the Guinness record has been achieved and spectacular aerial photos of this display taken, Stuttaford Van Lines will transport the scarves back to the the regions so that the Secret Scarves mission can continue on the same day at the same time across the country.

“Every scarf will have our message of love and warmth attached to it, as well as our trademark heart logo– and people walking home from school and work will witness pockets of glorious colour and warmth around lamp posts, railings and trees,” Steyn added. “And thousands of people who need a little more colour and warmth will be able to just help themselves to our labours of love.”

Details: For more details on the scarves or on how to get your scarves to the 67 Blankets headquarters visit the 67 Blankets Facebook page or email info@67blankets.co.za

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