Thornhill Manor residents share comfort through handmade charity donations
A donation of knitted teddy bears and blankets provided warmth and emotional support to residents at local care facilities and community organisations.
Handmade teddy bears and blankets crafted by community groups and Thornhill Manor residents brought comfort and connection to residents at Thembalami Care Centre, the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) and the Ron Smith Care Centre.
Over the years, Carol Foulis, a member of the Thornhill Manor knitting group, has donated handmade teddy bears to the care centres as part of her ongoing charity work, and this year was no exception.
Carol started knitting the bears about five years ago after her grandson’s school encouraged grandparents to make teddies for children facing challenges.
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She has since continued to knit for various charities.
“It gives me purpose and a wonderful feeling to know that I have, in some small way, brought joy to those less fortunate than myself,” she said.
In a separate initiative, knitted blankets were also delivered to MODA through a collaboration between the Country Club Johannesburg’s Yak & Yarn group, St Saviour’s Presbyterian Church and Thornhill Manor resident Shirley Lord.
The initiatives were described by Karen Griessel, a social worker at Thornhill Manor, as meaningful outreach projects that support the emotional well-being of residents while also providing contributors with a sense of purpose.
“A warm blanket and a cute Teddy bear are always welcome,” said Thembalami deputy manager Elize Raath.
