WHAT IS CRAFT FOR YEG?
Craft for YEG is an initiative dedicated to improving the lives of others while allowing fellow crafters to use our talents to support people or companion animals in need. You can make:
- Premature baby clothes,
- Winter accessories,
- Slippers,
- Toys and blankets for dog or cat rescues
Your donations could help children in need, homeless, hospitals, or local animal rescues.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
- Search for our group on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1095158454348530
- Call Dianne Bray: 587-335-2437
- Email Dianne Bray: br******@gm***.com
CRAFT FOR YEG – A STORY…
A few months ago I was chatting with my youngest daughter, with whom I share a love of crafting. We were talking about being able to make things for charity and what charities would take handmade items. I commented that I am so slow at knitting and crochet that those in need would have to wait quite a while to get more than one or two donated items from me and well she has only just learned to crochet. She suggested trying to unite other crafters so that even if each person only makes one or two things, collectively we would be able to support those in need. And so, Craft for YEG was born.
Craft for YEG is primarily a Facebook-based group administered by myself, Dianne Bray, and my daughter, Amy with support from friends Amber and Pushpa. Our mission is to bring together crafters to knit, crochet, and sew for Edmonton area causes and charities that support those in need.
We went with Facebook as it is a great way to engage fellow crafters, share patterns, and tips. Not on Facebook, don’t worry, if you’re interested, you can contact me by email: br******@gm***.com
WHO WE ARE HELPING
We have been reaching out to local charities and causes that support Edmonton area residents in need and identifying their requirements for handmade items. To date, the following charities/causes have expressed interest in getting our help:
- Royal Alexander Hospital
- Edmonton Humane Society
- Hope Mission
- Edmonton elementary schools
OUR AIM
The aim is to have a quarterly round-up (in a safe public place) where myself and a team of volunteers will be coordinating all of the items, then sorting and distributing to the causes. Although we won’t be able to tell you where your handmade items have gone, we’ll be sure to take pictures of everything we collect, and just know it has made it to someone in need.
And so, I am calling on any knitters and those who love to crochet or sew, to please join our Facebook group or email me and make even one item for a local charity. Our Facebook page is up to date with items that are needed and will be gratefully accepted. Currently we are looking for:
- mitts and toques for elementary school children,
- hats for newborns,
- toques and mitts for the homeless,
- lap blankets for wheelchair bound individuals,
- fidget blankets or aprons for patients suffering from dementia, and
- curtains to provide security for rescued dogs and cats.
I have patterns available for all of these items. Again, feel free to email me if you cannot access Facebook.
COLLECTION OF YOUR ITEMS
All we ask is could please:
- put your donated items in a bag (ideally resealable) to help protect them from weather, and
- provide a description of what the item is/age suitable etc.
I hope to see you there and thank you in advance for your support!
Diana Bray
br******@gm***.com
