KNITTERS and crotchetiers, as well as families and supporters of South Africa’s beloved community movement the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day gathered at the Westville Methodist Church on Saturday, April 11, for the Westville Social Knitwits Gathering.

Ambassador of the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day and member of the Westville Social Knitwits Gathering, Wendy Theunisen, said about 320 beautiful blanket creations were put on display as attendees were served refreshments.

Of those blankets on display, about 250 were knitted by the Westville Social Knitwits Gathering, said Theunisen, who added that the group of between 40 to 45 people meets once a month at a space provided by the Westville Methodist Church.

“The rest of the blankets came from around KZN,” said Theunisen.

Now that the presentation has been done, said Theunisen, the blankets will be distributed to NPOs, which include the local Ethelbert Child and Youth Care Centre, before the winter cold settles in.

“We just want to thank all the people who made donations to assist us and the Westville Methodist church for supporting us, as they provide the room we use once a month,” said Theunisen.

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She also thanked fellow 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day ambassador Suzanne Eslick who was a great help with setting up Saturday’s display.

Theunisen said the gathering was started by her and her daughter about three and a half years ago just after Covid lockdowns.

“We wanted to help people get back out into public spaces, so the gathering was a way of getting likeminded ladies together,” said Theunisen.

Since its founding, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day has inspired thousands of volunteers across the country to knit and crochet blankets that are distributed to communities in need.

What began as a small initiative has grown into a nationwide movement that has delivered warmth to hospitals, shelters, schools and vulnerable communities, while building powerful connections between people from all walks of life.

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