Next week the gigantic Rainbow Nation Blanket of Hope will be laid out at Steyn City School in Johannesburg. This massive, colourful "combined" blanket symbolises the resilience and irrepressible spirit of South Africa.
"67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day pledges to keep thousands less fortunate, warmer, in the name of our beloved Nelson Mandela. Stitch by Stitch; his legacy lives on in each blanket lovingly created by our volunteer 'KnitWits' for Madiba with their own two hands. Making every day a Mandela Day."
- Carolyn Steyn ( Founder).
"KnitWits" around the country have been busy knitting and crocheting up a storm. Ambassadors for the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative have collected hundreds and hundreds of blankets.
The SAGCE & The Scoin Shop have collaborated with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day since it started way back in 2014 when founder Carolyn Steyn invited us to get involved. This year we again showed commitment to 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day by pledging a substantial sponsorship of wool to create blankets.
Rael Demby, CEO of The South African Gold Coin Exchange & The Scoin Shop, says, "The amount of enthusiasm and effort showed by all the dedicated crafters around the country is astonishing. Every day my staff share social media images of the blankets piling up, ready for distribution. Businesses and individuals have a responsibility to play a positive role in the community, and I'm grateful that our donation has been put into action. Many, many hundreds of balls of wool have found their way to eager KnitWits who have dedicated hours and hours to create blankets. The knitters and crocheters are real champions - not only investing time but also demonstrating amazing creativity in their work. We are in for a long cold winter, and our association with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day will make a difference in a modest but vital way."
Many blankets have already found their way to KZN due to the unprecedented KZN flood emergency and the immediate need for help. Following the unveiling of the Rainbow Nation Blanket of Hope, Gift of the Givers will distribute individual blankets to vulnerable people ahead of what is expected to be a harsh winter, giving small but meaningful tokens of hope to the rainbow nation.
We are excited to celebrate this wonderful initiative and look forward to the big reveal. If you would like to join in the celebrations and view this record-breaking Rainbow moment, you can come along to Steyn City School on Wednesday 11th May.
EVENT DETAILS:
DATE: Wednesday, 11 May 2022
TIME: Official Program Starts at 09h00
VENUE: Steyn City School
RSVP: rsvp@67blankets.co.za by Saturday, 7th May 2022
Proof of Vaccination Required
