Brackenfell knitters are helping needy children in their community.
Zona Stroebel and Sally Palm first contributed their knitted and crocheted bed socks, scarves, bags, teddy bears, headbands, beanies and more to Apple Tree Initiatives, a non-profit company, in May, when the organisation planted trees in Suikerbossie Park to celebrate the first anniversary of its founding (“Tree bonanza for Brackenfell park,” May 31).
The non-profit company educates the community about food production and plants seasonal vegetables to feed needy in Brackenfell.
Apple Tree director Mandy Leibbrandt said Ms Stroebel and Ms Palm had donated about 100 items to the organisation in May for distribution to the needy.
Ms Stroebel has donated a further 11 items for Apple Tree’s next harvest in Brackenfell later this month.
“It just came to me that for people to be hungry during winter is quite bad enough, but for some of the kids to be cold is even worse. I thought I could do my little bit to help them ease the pain of being cold. I bought some wool and just began to knit. As I knitted, the more ideas came to me,” she said.
She started knitting teddy bears for children last Christmas.
“Thereafter I just wanted to knit and bring some happiness into homes where there might not be much to be happy about. I felt good in my heart every time I can donate something that brings some joy to a child. This is a project that I aim to continue with.”
Ms Palm wants to finish a minimum of 10 items before she gives more.
Her mother taught her how to knit and crochet. Later she joined a club where she learnt more.
“I learnt different things including embroidery. I buy and get my wool from other people and crochet the beanies and knit the gloves. To see the happy children’s faces is enough of a reward.”
She also donates to old-age homes in Struisbaai, where lived until 12 years ago, and to an old-age home in Bellville.