About 30 seniors from across the City of Cape Town’s Area South knitted baby goods during the national Covid-19 lockdown.
Area South spans Sub-councils 12, 13, 23, 18, 19 and 20, including Mitchell’s Plain, Philippi and Ocean View.
Some of the pensioners, representatives of the City’s Social Development and Early Childhood Development (SDECD) Area South Vulnerable team delivered their handiwork, including baby items like caps, booties, blankets and jerseys to Mitchell’s Plain District Hospital maternity ward, in Lentegeur, on Tuesday November 16.
It was done in honour of World Prematurity (Preemie) Day, which was on Wednesday November 17.
SDECD Area South community caregiver Mary-Ann Bergman said the project was initiated to alleviate the impact of loneliness during the lockdown.
“It gave seniors purpose and a sense of accomplishment during a time of isolation, anxiety and fear,” she said.
Her colleague Elizabeth Pagel said the project had a positive influence on the mental health of each senior participant.
The team identified seniors, provided them with knitting needles and wool, which they topped up regularly.
The seniors were allowed to use their own patterns and creativity.
Previously, the seniors knitted blankets for a women’s shelter and were eager to participate in the baby project.