EAST London’s branch of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela celebrated their third birthday at the weekend with a knit-a-thon at Amalinda Nursery.
67 Blankets ambassador Emily Bouwer said the number of the ladies who joined is increasing and there are now 20 members.
Though they are doing great work for the community, they still need assistance. Last year, they were able to donate 70 blankets to Imvisiswano Day Care in Orange Grove and 124 to Masiqhame Educare, in Mdantsane.
“Some schools request blankets and we are unable to meet the requested number because we lack wool. There are people willing and able to do the work, but they need us to supply the wool and we can’t always do that,” Bouwer said.
She also invited people to join them and become project leaders in different suburbs around East London.
“I cannot reach everyone in East London. These people can, for instance, meet in Beacon Bay once a week to knit. Then once a month, we can meet [all the various suburbs] and different suburbs can bring their contribution. We are looking for people who are willing to do that,” she said.
Hilary Schutte, who has been with the organisation since its inception, said she heard about it when an article appeared in the GO! & Express three years ago and she immediately knew she wanted to be part of it.
“It is fantastic, because we knit and donate to those in need. I am in a wheelchair and there is not much I can do, so I love knitting. They give us wool and we submit once finished. It is just great and keeps me occupied,” she said.
Those interested in joining this group of ladies, can contact Bouwer on 084-744-7304.
