Knit a Square Knits for Joy
Knit a Square: An Ambitious and Worthy Charity
Ever heard of Knit a Square? Surprisingly, I hadn't! It's a big charity with lots of support, and it does amazing work, so when I found out about it, I realized I had to write about it immediately.
Like so many amazing knitting charities, Knit a Square started with one family determined to make a difference. In this case, the family wanted to help AIDS orphans in South Africa. Working with family members living in Zimbabwe, they put out an online call to generous knitters and crocheters: change the world one square at a time.
The response astounded them. As more and more knitters sent in 8" squares, Knit a Square began to consume family life to the point where the founders quit their day jobs to focus exclusively on charity knitting. Today, thousands of AIDS orphans in South Africa receive handmade blankets and 'cuddles' (mini sleeping bags for babies and toddlers) to keep them warm at night and, more importantly, let them know they're loved.
AIDS Orphans
Here in the USA, we think of AIDS as a controlled problem. Yes, it's still a horrible disease, and it still affects thousands of people -- but we've pretty much got it under control.
Not so in Africa, where AIDS remains a problem of epidemic proportion. Millions and millions of children have become AIDS orphans: children under the age of 15 who have lost their parents to AIDS.
Losing a parent is horrible enough, but there's more that calls out to charity knitting groups around the world. Here at home, orphans receive care from other family members or the social services network. In Africa, orphans often have no family and no land, and there is no one to care for them at all. Not only do they lose people they love, they lose every ounce of security a child depends on.
Knit a Square tries to help with every aspect of this problem. They are more than knitting for charity: they are caring for orphans and preventing six year olds from having to raise families. The issue of AIDS orphans is a global emergency, not a localized problem. It is a human problem, not an African problem. We all have to take action against the world's injustices and tragedies.
How to Help
Like me, you're probably wondering how you can help this amazing charity. Obviously, they appreciate financial support, and a monthly donation of only $5 can make a huge difference. But this website is about knitting for charity, so of course you can do that, too!
The Knit a Square website offers all the instructions you need to knit an 8" square and help an orphan. They also have amazing photos and videos of what your work will accomplish, fun patterns, and lots of other goodies to inspire you.
So if you're in a knitting slump, need a new charity, or just really want to help with a global crisis -- you're in luck! Knit a Square is the charity for you.
