A community knitting group responsible for hundreds of warm garments gifted to local babies is asking for support as it faces the loss of its main wool funding source.
The Nelson Knitwits supply much needed knitwear for babies and toddlers across the Nelson Tasman region. Their work is distributed through groups including the Nelson Hospital maternity ward, Plunket, Family Start, Nelson Helping Families, Crisis Pregnancy Support Nelson and several local kindergartens.
Last year the group knitted and donated 1,100 garments to local whānau. Until recently their wool had been funded through the Kiwi Family Trust, but a reduction in the trust’s funding means the Knitwits now need help to continue their work.
Once a week, the group gathers in Sandra Lester’s Stoke living room, sitting on every spare surface, needles in hand.
Sandra says pure wool is essential for babies six months and under.
“For babies six months and under you have to have good quality pure wool, which is expensive, we are looking for any help we can get,” Sandra says.
A single ball of wool suitable for a child’s garment costs between $15 and $24. The group is asking the community, individuals or businesses to donate either unwanted leftover wool or financial contributions to help purchase more. Spotlight, a popular place to buy wool, also offers gift vouchers.
The Knitwits include two men, and another husband who sews the garments together. Sandra says the group is about more than producing clothing, with their weekly meet-ups offering company, connection and support.
“It is very social, and we welcome other knitters in the area to reach out and join us,” she says.
The group meets every Tuesday in Stoke and would love to hear from anyone keen to contribute.
Anyone who can donate or wants to connect can contact Sandra on 027 2922 881 or email kr3sjl@xtra.co.nz.
