In efforts to spread warmth, the St George’s Village Pins and Needles Group went above and beyond for the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day campaign.

After aiming for 67 blankets by July 17, the group had rather knitted 111 blankets by June 4. On that day, the colourful blankets were on display at the Village lounge.

Project pioneer, Ingrid Munnik, said the idea to participate in the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day campaign was inspired by the display of blankets at Bedford Centre last July, 2025, by the Edenvale Knit Wits.

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“I knew that I could lead the project in our Village with the excitement and inspiration gained from last July’s exhibition. We have a Village Pins and Needles Group and some members of that group started their knitting and crocheting in August, 2025.”

Munnik was gladly shocked to see the group surpass the initial goal of 67 blankets.

“As we were creeping up to 50, we thought we just may reach our goal. But more than a hundred, no way!”

She said that one of the biggest challenges was finding somewhere to store the blankets as the numbers increased.

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Munnik commended people outside the village, including family and friends, for joining the 48 village residents in the initiative.

She noted that the love, care and willingness definitely echo Mandela‘s legacy.

Village Manager Kerry Mans was delighted to note how something that started as a simple idea grew into something truly special.

With residents, family members, friends and staff all coming together to knit, crochet, donate wool and contribute their time and talent.

Mans said, “The beautiful blankets displayed here today are far more than just blankets.

“Each stitch represents care, compassion and the spirit of giving. It is very inspiring to see people unite for a common purpose, creating warmth and comfort for those who need it most.”

She added that as part of their Mandela Day initiative, the blankets would be donated firstly to the special babies and teenagers in a special home that the village celebrates and loves dearly.

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Other blankets would be donated to Elandsvallei Retirement Village. Then there were a few other organisations that would receive the blankets.

“We hope that they will bring not only warmth, but also a reminder that we care. Thank you to each person who has contributed. Your generosity has made a very big difference,” said Mans.

Ambassador of the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day and Edenvale Knit Wits, Kiley Cassel, expressed that at first glance, one saw colours, patterns and craftsmanship.

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Still, when looking a bit closer, they saw something even more special – every blanket displayed represented hours of dedication, patience, creativity and love.

“Each stitch tells a story, and every finished piece reflects the skill and care of the remarkable ladies who created them. This reminds us of human connection. Today, we not only celebrate the beautiful items on display, but also the talented women of St Georges Retirement Village,” Cassel said.