Church members knit for charity

Nancy Axe (middle) with other Gosford Uniting Church members who have knitted items for AKWAK

Members from the Gosford Uniting Church have knitted 86 items for the charity Aussies Knitting for War Affected Kids (AKWAK).

The items will be shipped to camps in war-torn areas where many children spend the winter in the snow without adequate warmth.

Over 40 church members helped create two jumpers, seven cardigans, 36 beanies, 36 mittens, several circular scarfs and one toy.

Church member, Nancy Axe, said after seeing an article on another organisation doing the same thing, she had contacted AKWAK to see what specific garments they needed.

“We have been doing it since around January,” Axe said.

“During the morning service, we would get together and knit some items.

“On Sunday, March 28, Rev. Lorna Martin blessed the garments and handed them over to the local coordinator for AKWAK, Jennifer Loupis.”

The items were predominately made with wool which was either donated or bought by the members.

“All of the clothing needed to be made of pure wool because it is warmer and also because they have many fires, they will not burn.” Axe said.

AKWAK will be packing these items, along with many more, onto a freight ship later in the year in Melbourne.

“We all feel deeply sorry for the people over there and feel very fortunate to be living in this country,” Axe said.

“By knitting these items, we can help out some people who are less fortunate than us.”

Jacinta Counihan