Ukrainian baby unit thanks island’s knitters
Local knitters and crocheters have received heartfelt thanks from a Ukrainian baby unit for their support as they move into a third year of support.
More than 29,000 handcrafted items have now been sent by the group, which is made up of dozens of local crafters, through the Newborn Baby Hats Appeal.
About 30 turned out for Saturday’s gathering at St Martin’s Community Centre, where they had a chance to chat, enjoy a few snacks and listen to some live music.
They were also read a letter from a Ukrainian perinatal unit, where staff thanked the people of Guernsey for ‘not forgetting about us’.
Charity founder Lilita Kruze spoke to the volunteers, thanking them for helping Ukrainian families.
‘It’s so beautiful,’ she said. ‘Thank you so much.’
Mrs Kruze grew up in Latvia, when it was part of the Soviet Union. She said she understood what it was like to be suppressed by Russia and understood the importance of supporting Ukraine.
‘Each loop of knitting, each crochet stitch is one step closer to the victory of good over evil.’
Among the knitters was Sally Rowe, 69. Her husband suggested she join the effort two years ago and she had taken part ever since.
‘I have done knitting before, but never anything like this,’ she said.
‘This is helping people who do not have anything.’
A group of knitters from St Mary’s at L’Islet were also there, including 92-year-old Joan Le Page. The group has helped the local charity the Tumaini Fund in the past, and soon signed up for the Ukrainian appeal.
Mrs Le Page was evacuated to Scotland when she was eight years old during the Second World War and she said that was one reason she wanted to help the appeal.
The attendees brought along some of their latest creations and by the end of the event, there were two tables piled high with newly-knitted and crocheted baby clothes and blankets.
Thanks to support from DHL, they will be boxed up and sent to Ukraine for free, to help babies born into a war zone.
