67 Blankets' KnitWits bring joy to cancer patients
The group, known as KnitWits, distributed handmade blankets and scarves, each bearing a special message that reads, 'I am not lost. If you are cold and need me, please take me. With love, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day'.
The blankets and scarves were placed at the waiting area, and inside the treatment room, giving patients an opportunity to pick any colour that fascinates them.
The event was part of the initiative's annual Secret Scarf Mission, which aims to bring joy and warmth to those in need.
Founder Carolyn Steyn of 67 Blankets said, 'The 10th anniversary of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day is a truly remarkable milestone. I could never have imagined the incredible momentum our Secret Scarves initiative would gain over the years.
'Over the past decade, our KnitWits have lovingly crafted and distributed thousands of scarves, each one a thread of hope and warmth for someone in need. This campaign has not only warmed bodies but also hearts, making a profound difference in communities across South Africa and inspiring a movement of kindness that continues to grow,' she said.
The patients appreciated the scarves and blankets, and had big smiles on their faces.
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67 Blankets' KnitWits bring joy to cancer patients
In celebration of Nelson Mandela Day, members of the West Rand's 67 Blankets initiative gathered at Life Flora's Oncology Centre to spread warmth and love to patients undergoing cancer treatment. The group, known as KnitWits, distributed handmade blankets and scarves, each bearing a special message that reads, 'I am not lost. If you are cold and need me, please take me. With love, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day'. The blankets and scarves were placed at the waiting area, and inside the treatment room, giving patients an opportunity to pick any colour that fascinates them. The event was part of the initiative's annual Secret Scarf Mission, which aims to bring joy and warmth to those in need. Founder Carolyn Steyn of 67 Blankets said, 'The 10th anniversary of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day is a truly remarkable milestone. I could never have imagined the incredible momentum our Secret Scarves initiative would gain over the years. 'Over the past decade, our KnitWits have lovingly crafted and distributed thousands of scarves, each one a thread of hope and warmth for someone in need. This campaign has not only warmed bodies but also hearts, making a profound difference in communities across South Africa and inspiring a movement of kindness that continues to grow,' she said. The patients appreciated the scarves and blankets, and had big smiles on their faces.
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Once engaged, social workers assess their needs and place them into structured six-week programmes, with the ultimate goal to help them exit the system and regain independence. 'At any given time, our shelters are housing 300-400 people overnight collectively. The idea is not to house more, but to house fewer because they are exiting the system stronger and better off,' Ramasike added. Image: Supplied Warmth in every stitch 'At Med-Lemon, we've long been trusted to bring warmth and relief to those battling colds and flu across the country,' said Bronwyn Hughes, Brand Manager for Med-Lemon at Haleon. 'Through this heartfelt initiative, we're honoured to extend that comfort in a more tangible way - by providing warm, specially knitted blankets to the beneficiaries at Impilo. Beyond warmth, this effort also supported skills development, with our knitting partners leading a meaningful educational session that empowered participants with both knowledge and connection.' Hughes added that Med-Lemon looks forward to expanding the initiative across the country – reaching more communities and reminding people experiencing homelessness that they are seen, valued, and supported. Nonhlanhla Zulu, Unit Leader for Outreach and Social Relief at Impilo Shelter emphasised the pivotal role external support played. 'When brands like Med-Lemon reach out, it means the world. Remember, we are a non-profit organisation, we can't do this alone, and every bit of support goes a long way. And for our beneficiaries, it affirms that they haven't been forgotten.' As South Africans honour Nelson Mandela's legacy this July, initiatives like Med-Lemon's act of service at Impilo Shelter serve as powerful reminders that restoring hope and dignity is a collective effort. Every stitch in a blanket, every meal served, and every hand extended reaffirms that change is possible – when we choose to see and uplift one another.
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