As a 90-year old, Colleen van der Walt bears testimony to the saying that “knitters ain’t quitters”. Over the past year, she has deftly wielded her needles to craft her plains and purls into more than 200 beanies for Early Childhood Development centres in the Toti area. “I used to volunteer to make sandwiches for The Domino Foundation’s Nutrition programme, but began to find I wasn’t up to standing at the kitchen tables for any length of time”. So, now, Colleen continues to support the work the NPO is doing in partnership with the centres from the comfort of her sofa. Cheryl Dann, leader of Domino’s South Coast team, commended this indefatigable lady: “She is an inspiration to us all and a blessing to the toddlers in the centres with the cosy headwear she makes so that their early mornings are warmer”.
There are approximately 1500 babies and toddlers in the 32 centres Domino work within around Toti and, with the chillier months not far off, Cheryl says there are many opportunities for well-wishers to make Winter easier for the small people in the crèches. “Nap-times are an important part of the daily routine and a small blanket for each child makes a huge difference. There is always a great need for teaching resources like educational toys and story books in good condition”. Cheryl is always ready to chat with people who want to know how they can help and can be reached at nutritionsouth @ domino.org.za or on 087 821 6089.
