67 Blankets prepares for 11th birthday bash
67 Blankets for Mandela Day is marking their 11th birthday with a colorful blanket initiative aimed at spreading joy and comfort to those in need.
As the 11th birthday of the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day organisation approaches, excitement fills the air following a significant blanket handover on Christmas Eve.
Delivered by Stuttaford Van Lines, a truck carrying a bounty of vibrant blankets for the ambitious: The Hugest Happiness Blanket project, rolled into town, embodying the dedication and spirit of the local Knitwits community.
The blankets, arriving from various provinces across South Africa, will be showcased at Nelson Mandela University, in Gqeberha, on March 20.
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This festive occasion not only highlights the commitment to fulfilling the mission statement: ’67 Blankets Does Not Sleep,’ but also galvanizes volunteers to meet tight deadlines in the spirit of service.
The handover event will kick off with a vibrant display of diverse ’emoji’ blankets during the organisation’s 11th birthday bash on January 25 in Steyn City. Attendees can expect to see contributions from Gauteng’s Knitwits, with cheerful ‘Happy’ blankets surrounding a bright yellow smiley face centerpiece.
Reflecting on the organisation’s journey, founder Carolyn Steyn recalls how 67 Blankets was born from a casual challenge initiated by the late Nelson Mandela during a lunch with friends in December 2013.
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“What started as a simple request to create 67 blankets for Mandela Day has blossomed into a powerful movement. I am proud to say that we have distributed over 167 000 handmade blankets to beneficiaries around South Africa in just 11 years, and the impact of our work continues to grow,” said Steyn.
As the blankets prepare to travel to Gqeberha, the impact of this initiative is clear. Steyn emphasises the importance of community involvement, stating that the upcoming celebration will not only strengthen connections among members but also gather essential stock to prepare for the approaching winter months.
“Our birthday bash is not just a celebration; it’s an opportunity for us to come together and make a tangible difference in our community,” she added.
The organisation invites the community to participate in the birthday celebration by dropping off blankets at The Farmhouse in Steyn City on January 25 from 10:00 onwards.
“Donations of wool will also be welcomed from two local suppliers, Kismet Yarns and The Wool Shoppe, who will operate pop-up shops on-site. Corporate clients are encouraged to engage as well, with donations eligible for Section 18A tax benefits.
“On March 20 the spectacular display of: ‘The Hugest Happiness Blanket in the World’, will be unveiled, featuring the smiling emoji as its centerpiece. This event also coincides with the United Nations International Day of Happiness, allowing for a celebration of joy and community togetherness.”
For those wanting to get involved or learn more about the organisation, you can visit their website at www.67blankets.co.za or contact them at info@67blankets.co.za.
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