A small group of North Otago knitters and crocheters will join other New Zealanders all throughout the country in uniting to knit thousands of blankets and warm clothing to be given to children, families and the elderly living in desperate need in Eastern Europe.
Operation Cover Up comes under the umbrella of Christian-based charity Mission Without Borders, which distributes the woollen goods.
Winter in Eastern Europe can get as low as -25°C and many children, families and the elderly have little to keep them warm in a harsh winter.
New Zealand sends two 12m (40ft) shipping containers each year bursting with blankets and clothing as well as other items to those living in poverty or other vulnerable situations.
Retired minister Maggie Smith, the local co-ordinator, has been knitting for Operation Cover Up for about 20 years and has brought her experience to the Oamaru group for the past two years.
"All the groups, in Christchurch, Dunedin, all the different places will be doing all the same thing as we are.
"By the beginning of next month those containers can be made ready to be shipped out.
"It started off with one woman in Taupo and it grew and grew and grew," she said.
Rev Smith took over from previous co-ordinator Gladys Familton, who was involved in the knitting group from the beginning. She still continues to offer advice and guidance.
"I couldn’t do anything without her, she’s wonderful, " Rev Smith said.
Mrs Familton told Rev Smith that the group had other benefits, as aside from offering protection and warmth to children in Ukraine, it also helped group members find "a new lease on life".
"Because they’ve got a purpose, it’s a double blessing really," Rev Smith said.
Rev Smith said the collection will happen today at the Orwell St Church Hall after 2pm.
"There will be a big sort out, a hive of activity and the most incredible amount of knitting," she said
"The generosity of knitters is just amazing, " she said.
The next day the local collection will be brought to a farm where it will be put into wool bales and delivered to Mainfreight, which will ship the garments free of charge.
