Knitting for a Good Cause

The residents of RSL Care Westhaven Residential Aged Care in Toowoomba enjoy gathering together around a lovely warm fire in the colder winter months to indulge in one of their favourite hobbies - knitting.

The group named ‘Knit and Natter’ is comprised of both men and women who enjoy being creative, exercising their fine motor skills and getting together to have a chat. The group is not just about knitting; they have a greater purpose as all the garments made are donated to various charities.

Residents make a range of brightly coloured beanies, scarves and gloves which are then donated to local homeless shelters and outreach programs to shield those living on the streets during the cold Toowoomba winter months.

Some more talented members of the group will also knit baby clothing, including jumpers, onesies, booties and beanies for a range of children’s charities shipping them around Toowoomba, Australia and even overseas.

Most of the residents at the site are well into their 90s and enjoy being connected to their local community through their donations and the sense of purpose their hobby gives them.

Diversional Therapist, Lucy Targato organises the knitting group and personally delivers the garments to the local homeless shelters.

“The volunteers at the shelter are always blown away, not only by the excellent quality of the work but by the generosity and selflessness of our residents,” she said.

Diversional Therapist, Sue Humphrey highlights the great pride residents take in the garments they are producing.

“Each item is special in its own way. They take great pride in decorating them with knitted flowers, buttons, ribbons and unique designs,” she said.

Often the Diversional Therapists will find themselves taking time out of their weekends running into local craft stores to find the perfect shade of wool for a resident.

The group is not just about making beautiful items to be donated, the residents also enjoy the social connection the group provides while others join to learn a new skill.

“No matter the reason they are there, they all have a great time and will always come away with new friends,” Lucy said.   

Click here to find out more about RSL Care's aged care services.