Fern Brook Lodge Knit and Natter group puts kindness into every stitch for Ukraine
Residents at Care South’s Fern Brook Lodge in Gillingham have been putting their knitting skills to thoughtful use, creating baby hats and blankets for families in Ukraine.
Members of the home’s popular Knit and Natter group decided to support the cause after hearing about the work of Sara’s husband, Richard, who makes the three-day journey to Ukraine to deliver medical supplies and other essential items.
Wanting to contribute in their own way, the residents picked up their needles and began creating warm, handmade items for babies and young children.
Knitting with a purpose
The Knit and Natter group is already a much-loved part of life at Fern Brook Lodge, bringing residents together to enjoy a shared interest while chatting, laughing and spending time with friends.
This latest project has given the sessions an added sense of purpose.
The ladies have been carefully knitting baby hats and blankets, knowing that each finished item will travel far beyond Fern Brook Lodge and provide warmth and comfort to families in Ukraine.
Every stitch represents kindness, care and a little piece of hope from the residents in Gillingham to the people who receive their creations.
A personal connection to the cause
The project has a particularly close connection to Fern Brook Lodge through Richard’s journeys to Ukraine.
His trips involve travelling for around three days to deliver medical supplies and other much-needed items, inspiring the residents to think about how they could help too.
Knitting was a natural choice, allowing the group to use skills they already enjoy while creating something practical and heartfelt.
Friendship and creativity at Fern Brook Lodge
Activities at Fern Brook Lodge are designed to reflect residents’ interests and give people opportunities to continue enjoying hobbies that are meaningful to them.
The Knit and Natter group is a wonderful example of this, combining creativity and companionship while giving residents a sense of achievement as each piece is completed.
This particular project also shows how a familiar activity can connect residents with people and communities much further afield.
Care in every stitch
The residents are incredibly proud of what they are creating and are looking forward to seeing their hats and blankets begin their journey to Ukraine.
Their efforts are a touching reminder that even small acts of kindness can carry a great deal of meaning.
At Care South, activities like these form part of the wider commitment to Food, Fun and Friendship, helping residents enjoy purposeful, social and rewarding experiences.