Dancers crochet teddies for children at TBF
GREENSIDE – The dancers were taught to crochet by members of Friends with Threads.
Dancers from the Joburg Ballet teamed up with members of the Friends with Threads crocheting group to create a number of beautiful teddy bears for the Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF) on February 26.
The group of dancers met crocheting instructors at The Yarn Tree in Greenside where they put their fingers to good work in aid of a worthwhile cause.
Donor liaison officer at TBF Dalene Bishop was pleased to see the efforts of the dancers and the Friends with Threads, who are loyal supporters of the foundation.
The TBF, based in Parktown, works to support abused children through forensic medical examinations, forensic assessments, counselling, court preparation and more.
“We received over 300 items from Friends with Threads last year,” explained Bishop.
The Joburg Ballet has also been a regular supporter of the TBF, assisting with the purchasing of stationery for the children as well as raising funds through shows.
“A soft toy or blanket is a transitional constant reminder,” explained Bishop. “A teddy bear can remind children of the safety and love they feel with their family. Teddy bears and blankets provide emotional comfort, a sense of security and can reduce negative feelings such as loneliness and anxiety.”
Company manager at the Joburg Ballet Chase Bosch said, “My personal mission since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak has been to protect the arts and the innocents. It’s time for me and Joburg Ballet to give back and do what we can to bring something of value to children at TBF’s lives.”
“What we do is probably only a drop in a bucket, but I’m hoping that what we do is contagious; so that more people feel the need to look after our (South Africa’s) children.”
“We all need to do more and do better. Literally, our children’s lives depend on it,” said Bosch.
Anne-Marie Moore of Friends with Threads said TBF has been her chosen outreach for a number of years.
“The teddies are an ongoing project,” said Moore. “Anyone who would like to make and donate teddy bears can please contact Dalene who will put people in touch with The Yarn Tree where they can be delivered.”
Details: Email daleneb@ttbc.org.za
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