A trip to an art and craft show has inspired the women from the Canungra Craft Group to make 100 bags of essential items to support men experiencing homelessness.
“We saw different crafts but what impressed us was the bags for homeless people and people in emergency situations,” said craft group member Virginia Duncan.
“One of the bags was specifically for men so we decided there and then to make 100 bags for men.”
The project came together in six weeks, with the help of a number of local businesses and organisations.
Robyn Mahony sewed the bags, while the other members of the group got busy approaching businesses for items needed.
“Every bag has a pair of socks,” said Virginia, “Because believe it or not socks are the most requested item.”
The bags also contain a toothbrush and toothpaste, band-aids, body wipes, shampoo, dental floss, tissues, a razor, notepad and pen and body wash.
Mrs Duncan added her own special touch to the bags with an affirmation included in each one.
“Like ‘today could be a good day’ or ‘today is a new start’ because I’m into all that stuff.”
The craft group had a working bee to collate all of the items for the bags at at Wonglepong CWA Hall.
They connected with not for profit group Night Ninjas Inc, which is based in Cleveland and helps people experiencing homelessness and those who are living close to or below the poverty line.
They receive food and other essentials from our generous donors and deliver them directly where they are needed.
Night Ninjas also provide weekly Night Feeds and Breakfast from their fully equipped van, with a friendly team ready to chat.
The craft group’s project was made possible with assistance from Ampol Canungra, Terry White Chemist Canungra, Canungra Dental, Marilyn Tynan, Gwen Higgs, Virginia Duncan, both the RSL Sub Branch Op Shop and the Canungra Op Shop, Gina Firth, Wendy Bingham and the Women’s Web also donated money to purchase items for the bags.
Canungra Craft Group convenor Robyn Mahony said it was a huge effort to complete the project in six week and she was very grateful to the women for taking on the challenge and to everyone who assisted with the project.
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