THE wet and chilly weather is an important reminder to consider donating a little warmth to the Hastings’ most vulnerable residents.
New and next-to-new blankets, doonas and other warm items are currently being accepted by the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West through its Winter Woollies Drive, and by Wauchope Rotary through its Winter Blanket Drive.
Both clubs are working in partnership with Sam’s Natty Knitters and Crocheters for the Homeless, which makes handmade items for both campaigns.
Running for close to seven years, the group was founded by former NSW Carer of the Year Sheila “Sam” Openshaw.
Close to 60 members are registered, with an average of 20 women meeting at the Port Macquarie Golf Club every Monday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm, to knit, crochet and have a “natter”.
“We mainly make scarves, beanies, rugs and mittens; and some of the ladies do jumpers,” Sam told News Of The Area.
“We knit and crochet all year round, and when Winter is over, the ladies stockpile in their own home.”
Wauchope Rotary collects their creations to add to a trestle table of donations available on the second Wednesday of the month at Bain Park, alongside the SouperVan.
The club also provides non-perishable food and hygiene kits.
The items collected by Rotary Port Macquarie West are donated to various community service organisations to distribute to those in need.
Members of the public wanting to support these campaigns can drop off items to the PCYC in Owen Street, Port Macquarie or, for Wauchope, call Debbie on 0418 298 912 to arrange drop off or pick up.
Anyone with new wool they’d like to donate for handmade items can drop into the Port Macquarie Golf Club on Monday afternoons and ask for Sam.
By Sue STEPHENSON
