Four years of blanket joy
THE fourth birthday of the 67 Blankets movement, started by philanthropist Carolyn Steyn in honour of late South African president Nelson Mandela in December 2013, will celebrate its fourth birthday in East London at the Mashie Golf Course in Cambridge from 10am to 2pm.
The inspiration for the 67 Minutes project was derived from Mandela’s birthday, July 18.
67 Blankets East London ambassador Emily Bouwer said people needing blankets should request donations by using the application form found on the website or by contacting the organisation. Blankets have been handed over to His Hands in Southernwood, and Imvisiswano Day Care Centre in Orange Grove, Createful Hands in West Bank and Masiqhame Educare in Mdantsane.
The initiative has won three Guinness World Records for the longest crochet and knitted blankets, which were displayed on the lawns of the Union buildings and Victor Verster Prison, where Mandela was released.
“There are 15 women who meet monthly for a knit-athon when I’m able to provide a venue. We have taught the staff of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation twice during their 67 Minutes projects.
“Our plan for the fourth birthday is to have a knit-athon and sell scarves to buy wool to use towards blankets.”
Bouwer appealed to the community to donate wool.
For information, contact the head office via Jaco Lotter on 061-767-6767 or e-mail info@67blankets.co.za. Their social media pages are: on Facebook, 67 blankets for Nelson Mandela day ( South Africa), and on Twitter, 67Blankets, or visit the website