At this time of year, it’s easy to focus on the acquisitive nature of the Christmas season, to get caught up in the “Black Friday” mentality, and to forget the spirit of giving. While you’ve got your needles out, here are some ways to use your powers for good.
THE BIG KNIT. This UK based charity, partnered with Innocent Drinks, raises funds for Age UK. For each drink bottle wearing a little knitted hat, 25 pence will be donated to the charity. What fun to knit these whimsical little hats and what an impact they have! And they’re small, making them easy and inexpensive to ship should you wish to contribute from across the pond.
THE GET WELL GANG. Working through Canadian health care centers, The Get Well Gang collects hats and other knitted items for cancer patients. In the Toronto area, Princess Margaret is the predominant cancer center, but you can click here to find a donation center near you, as well as patterns to download.
KNITTED KNOCKERS. I love this charity! Who knew that knitting could provide a softer and more comfortable prosthesis for breast cancer survivors? It’s a beautiful idea just packed with girl-power 🙂 Click here for more info and patterns.
THE IZZY DOLL. Made in memory of Master Corporal Mark Isfeld, the Izzy doll is a soft, colorful toy given as comfort to children in distress all over the world. At present, Izzy is a tender, welcome gift to children fleeing war torn Syria. You can read the story and download the pattern here. Why not gather some knitter friends one chilly evening and make some of these? Think of the tears they’ll dry.
PROJECT LINUS. Originally conceived to comfort children with cancer, Project Linus now provides security blankets to traumatized children everywhere. Project Linus accepts handmade blankets of any kind, so if you’re short of knitting time, a sewn blanket would be more than welcome. The Project Linus website has guidelines and blanket making tips. No time? Donations of cash are also encouraged.
….because knitting feels good 🙂
JenR
Great ideas!!