Handmade teddy bears and blankets crafted by community groups and Thornhill Manor residents have brought comfort and connection to residents at Thembalami Care Centre, the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) and the Ron Smith Care Centre.
Teddies from Carol
A member of the Thornhill Manor knitting group, Carol Foulis has donated handmade teddy bears to the care centres as part of her ongoing charity work over the past few years – and this year was no exception.
Carol began knitting the toys about five years ago after her grandson’s school encouraged grandparents to make teddies for children facing challenges. She has since continued to knit for various charities.
“It gives me purpose and a wonderful feeling to know that I have, in some small way, brought joy to those less fortunate than myself,” she says.
Blankets bring warmth
In a separate initiative, knitted blankets were also delivered to MODA through a collaboration between the Country Club Johannesburg’s Yak & Yarn group, St Saviour’s Presbyterian Church and Thornhill Manor resident Shirley Lord.
The initiatives were described by Thornhill Manor social worker Karen Griessel as a meaningful outreach that supports emotional well-being among the care centre residents, while also giving contributors a sense of purpose.
“A warm blanket and a cute teddy bear are always welcome,” says Thembalami deputy manager Elize Raath.
Thornhill Manor social worker Karen Griessel and generous knitter Carol Foulis.
Alecia Gordon-Finlayson and Gale Weber from Country Club Johannesburg with the blankets that were donated.
Back: Elize Raath (Thembalami Care Centre deputy manager), Karen Griessel (Thornhill Manor social worker), Val Corin (Thornhill Manor resident) and Shirley Lord (Thornhill Manor resident). Front: Cecilia Röttcher (MODA resident).
Thembalami Care Centre deputy manager Elize Raath with resident Dorah Mapekula.
A resident of Ron Smith Care Centre with her teddy.
Thembalami resident Getrude Xabanisa with Thornhill Manor social worker Karen Griessel.