Springs Girls High School (SGHS) recently wrapped up a heartwarming blanket project combining creativity with community service.
The Nelson Mandela Day Blanket Project encouraged learners to crochet or knit squares. They were then assembled into blankets for those in need.
Kaitlyn Wheller from SGHS explained that the initiative promoted compassion, teamwork, and community spirit, the core values of the school’s ethos.
“The primary objectives were to instil a sense of social responsibility and generosity among our learners, create warm blankets for distribution and provide a platform for learners to learn new skills and collaborate towards a common goal,” Wheller said.
“Learner participation was enthusiastic, with the school collectively producing 1 879 squares.”
Grade Nine learner Zinhle Wali said the project reignited her passion for crocheting and knitting.
“Even better, I am crocheting and knitting for a good cause,” Zinhle said.
Fellow learner Nhlonipho Vilakazi described how the project helped her overcome challenges.
“I didn’t know how to crochet at first, and since most of the people who taught me were right-handed, it was difficult. I practised at home with left-handed tutorials and eventually got the hang of it. I found a new hobby that helps to keep my mind relaxed,” she explained.
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The winning class made a notable contribution of 818 squares, achieved through handmade squares and donated wool.
They celebrated their success with a class party, with pizzas donated by a local pizzeria and snacks donated by staff members. Wheller said the teachers also played a role in the project.
Teachers Heather Jones and Kiara Nadioo contributed 52 and 49 squares, respectively, motivating the learners and enhancing the project’s overall impact.
“Their participation was crucial in driving the project forward,” Wheller said.
These learners received recognition for their efforts:
• Mutsa Mbuqe came first with 98 squares and received a R300 Spur voucher.
• Homolemo Motatinyane came second with 86 squares and received a R200 Spur voucher.
• Tanatshwe Mabonga came third with 80 squares and received a R100 Spur voucher.
The blanket project provided warmth to those in need and fostered a sense of community and accomplishment among the learners.
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