Since 2011, 15 years, Dawn and Robert Sword have been entrusted by the Wardell Knit n’ Knat Group with the privilege of distributing the beautiful handcrafted rugs, scarves, beanies and other knitted and crocheted items they have made to people in need throughout the Ballina Shire.
Again, this year Dawn and Robert were invited to join the group at Wardell for a delicious morning tea and to receive the blankets.
Dawn told The Echo, “In 2004, the group gave blankets to the Salvation Army in Woodburn, three blankets made from two hundred knitted squares to be given to destitute people in Sydney. The Knit n’ Knat group still meets at the Wardell and District War Memorial Hall each Thursday at 9am until noon”.
“The ladies knit and croquet for the needy while enjoying the companionship of others, having a great social time with lots of tea and chatter. In 2011 the late Rose Leeson asked the East Ballina Lions if they could be the distributing agency for their beautiful creations and we were invited down for ‘Smoko’ and were both absolutely amazed and delighted to see the incredible collection of work that the ladies had so generously created which included knitted and crocheted blankets together with beanies, scarves, baby blankets and toys. The time, skill and care that goes into every item is truly remarkable.
“Each year since then as the weather turns chilly the Knit n’ Knat group have given an awe-inspiring number of magnificent rugs to distribute. Many families and individuals continue to face challenging circumstances, and the gifts provide not only warmth but also a tangible reminder that others care about their wellbeing. The recipients are always deeply appreciative of the comfort and generosity that the handmade creations represent.
“A number of the items have already been distributed through the Hot Meal Centre, where they have been warmly received by homeless and disadvantaged members of our community. Others will be passed on to the volunteers who operate the kitchen outside the ADRA Op Shop, Mary’s Place, as well as to students at Ballina Public School and children attending the childcare centre in West Ballina.
“New members are warmly welcomed to join the Wardell Knit n’ Knat group on a Thursday morning”.
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