At the start of term 1, the Catalyst leadership team alongside the Anglicare Ambassadors created a new initiative called “beanies and blankets”.

The aim of this group was to create wearable items of warm clothing and blankets that could be donated to the Salvation Army mountain of warmth in order to assist those struggling with homelessness in the cold winter months. To begin with, we purchased materials from local op shops to find crochet hooks, knitting needles and cheap yarn. There was almost no need to buy brand new materials, as we were able to find so many needles that we didn’t know what to do with them! A trip to Busselton also proved extremely useful, as I was able to inherit bags full of wool and knitting needles that my Grandma was kind enough to give away, and even some unfinished projects that we were able to add the finishing touches on!

Run on Wednesday mornings in nexus, the initiative became a great way to start the day, and was proving to be a relaxing mindfulness activity. We had special guest Ms Fritz join us to lend us a hand with the creation of the blanket and to share her expertise surrounding all things craft with us. We had many of the Anglicare Ambassadors and other interested students join us, and I owe a special thank you to Ms Watt for helping organise and arrange this initiative. I had a marvellous time being involved in this program and I am extremely grateful to be able to share my love for crocheting with other interested students.

At the end of term 2, we were able to present the items that we had made to the Salvation army, including a blanket that Mrs Fritz had worked tirelessly on to assemble, a few beanies and even a scarf. It is wonderful to know that these items are going to people who need them and there is currently a high demand for blankets and rugs in the freezing weather. If you would like to join us, the program will continue in term 3 on Wednesday mornings from 7:30am (although if you are not a morning person like myself you can come at any time you would like before tutor group starts), it would also be greatly appreciated if any materials you have or projects you have made and would like to donate are brought to the library so that we can pass them on to the Salvation Army to help those who need it the most.