RESIDENTS of a private retirement development in Ayr have put their needles to work in aid of a worldwide initiative which helps children affected by natural disasters, war, famine and poverty.
Carrick Gardens, managed by Bield, recently undertook a ‘Teddies for Tragedies’ project in which 12 residents hand-knitted over 50 teddy bears and crafted 50 matching bags in just five weeks, which have now reached their new owners – orphaned children in Malawi.
Frances Talbot, on site manager of Carrick Gardens, said: “I thought Teddies For Tragedies would be a fantastic project for our residents to get involved in as not only is it a brilliant cause, but we have some very talented knitters and craft workers amongst us.
“Everyone found it to be great fun and even those who had not picked up their knitting needles for years found enjoyment in working together to create the teddies and matching bags.
“Teddies for Tragedies really brought our residents together and it is wonderful to know that our handiwork is now being enjoyed by children in Malawi who will treasure our gifts.”
Frances decided to participate in the project after hearing about it in the Carousel Crafts Store in Largs, which acts as a collection point for local coordinator, Carol Brodie.
Carol said: “We are very grateful to the residents of Carrick Gardens who worked hard to produce some really fantastic teddies for us.
“Through our Church of Scotland network, the teddies have now made their way to children in Malawi who have few possessions of their own, and we know these teddies will put big smiles on their faces and be greatly appreciated.”
‘Teddies for Tragedies’ is a global scheme established in 1985 in which people can handcraft colourful knitted teddy bears to bring comfort and hope to children in refugee camps, orphanages and hospitals across the world.
Bield – a registered charity – has grown from humble beginnings, starting out with one housing development in Bo’ness to become a major provider of a wide range of housing and care services for around 15,000 people across 22 local authority areas.
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