Grande Prairie Stitch Club knits record 7,456 items for 57 local groups
Members logged nearly 30,000 hours turning about 13,000 balls of yarn into knitted goods for local organizations, from hospitals to animal shelters.
The Stitch Club of Grande Prairie marked its 25th year of community service by setting a new donation record, producing 7,456 knitted items from an estimated 13,000 balls of yarn. That total surpasses last year's record by nearly 400 items, according to club president Anne Sawchuk, who said 12 new members joined this year and members put in about 29,750 hours of work.
Founded in 2001 by Sawchuk and four other women, the club has grown to 79 members and now supports 57 local organizations, including Grande Prairie Hospital's cancer clinic and maternity ward, the GP Youth Emergency Shelter Society, several seniors' lodges, food banks and animal rescue groups. One suggestion from a member led to the creation of 69 dog beds in a single day, which were distributed to local shelters.
Since 2001, the club estimates it has donated more than 59,000 knitted items in total. With this year's output already so high, organizers say they need donations of yarn and fabric for next year, which can be dropped off at the 55 North Community Centre on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cash and Michaels gift cards are also accepted, along with bottle donations under Bottle Depot number 2280.
The club is also seeking new members, including people willing to help untangle yarn or contribute ideas, even if they don't sew or knit. Those interested can contact Sawchuk directly or reach out through the club's social media page.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.