Each year Masikhule hosts its Mandela Day initiative, Cast On 4 Kids, which encourages the Helderberg community to knit or crochet items for the children of the many early-childhood development centres the non-profit organisation works with in marginalised communities.
People prepare blankets, scarves, beanies, jerseys and other winter woollens, bringing the items to the event on Tuesday 18 July, where they join other keen participants for 67 minutes to knit or crochet (or cover books).
The event culminates in the collation of the donated items, which are then distributed to more than 2 000 young children at the ECD centres – from Sir Lowry’s Pass through to Macassar and even Eerste River.
“The pandemic brought a stop to our sharing the time together, but not to the wonderful donations that were kindly dropped off to ensure the little ones still were treated in the chilly month of July,” read a Masikhule statement. “This year we are thrilled to once again invite everyone to join us for 67 minutes at Urban Voice Church in Schapenberg Road anytime between 11:00 and 14:00.
“Sit and knit, chat and crochet, cover children’s books, or just drop off your donation. Small fleecy blankets, new or gently loved, would be much appreciated too, and remember children are all between three months and five years old.”. For any additional information, contact Masikhule on info@masikhule.org.
