Giving with love is an action known only too well to Jill. For the past 23 years she along with other ladies from Western Brisbane, have been crocheting for charity. What started as a social group, the ladies coming together on a weekly basis to crochet for the needy, homeless, and new mothers, grew into an enterprise of women who gave with all their heart.
Operating from the Goodna Neighbourhood House, the group became a tangible expression of their desire to make a difference in the lives of others. From crocheting beautiful pieces of clothing for premature and newborn babies, to providing brand new clothing and hygiene items to families, this group of ladies was possibly one of the first of its type in Brisbane putting together care packs for our most vulnerable communities. The original givers at the heart of our community.
“We do this because we really care. The story of community is our story. For some of the ladies in the group we have shared experience with those we crochet for.” Giving with Love spokesperson, Jill in conversation from her home in Sinnamon Park, with Infinity Community Solutions Ltd recently, said “That is what makes providing these items to the community so close to our own heart.”
From its early beginnings, the number of ladies grew quickly, reaching over 20 meeting once a week. However, as time has passed the number is now down to four. Despite the dwindling numbers, the dedication of Jill, Ann, Joyce and Greta remains unwavering. Their commitment to spreading warmth and comfort to those in need through their crocheted creations is truly admirable.
Over the years, their handmade blankets, socks, beanies, and baby shawls have brought solace to countless individuals facing difficult circumstances. From providing warmth to the homeless on cold winter nights, to offering a sense of security to new mothers welcoming their little ones into the world, the impact of their generosity knows no bounds.
Reflecting on their journey of giving, Jill notes that the group finds fulfilment not only in the tangible items they create but also in the connections they’ve forged with those they’ve helped along the way and with each other. Each piece carries a story, a testament to the power of compassion and giving with love. “We do this because we really care. The story of community is our story. For some of the ladies in the group we have shared experience.” Says Jill, “That is what makes providing these items to the community so close to our own heart and has strengthened our own friendships.”
As the ladies bid farewell to this chapter of their lives, the legacy of their kindness lives on in the countless lives they’ve touched. Their selflessness serves as a reminder that even the smallest act of giving can make a world of difference. And while their numbers have grown smaller over the years, their spirit of generosity continues to inspire others to follow in their footsteps, spreading love and compassion wherever they go. Recalling with Jill, the gifting the group has done in the past, one gets the sense that while they are unable to provide items in the same quantity, you just know that the ladies will continue to crochet for a cause. “I am still making blankets and crocheting mittens and beanies. It keeps me engaged and I can continue to give to others, even if it is not in the same way.” says Jill.
“Over the years we have all shared our skill of crochet and even now, I would be happy to teach others how to take up this great craft” she adds, showing that she still has a strong sense of giving to others.
In a world often plagued by hardship and uncertainty, the legacy the group leaves serves as a reminder that, no matter how small, our actions have the power to bring something positive into another’s day.
As the recipients of the final gifts of love these women have poured their hearts into, we at Infinity Community Solutions would like to say thank you from not only our community but from all the communities that they have reached over the years. Your generosity is an inspiration for us all.