Scarves, blankets, beanies, shawls and children’s toys were donated to the National Suicide Prevention and Trauma Recovery Project in Rivervale this week by Bandyup Assistant Superintendent Offender Services Carol.
Carol said the Project worked with vulnerable people and families. " They often come across parents who struggle to meet the basic needs of the children," she said. "A knitted toy can bring great pleasure to a young child who has had to leave a home with nothing.
"Bandyup’s charity knitting group has been running since late 2018 and has knitted or crocheted hundreds of items – too many to count.
"It is co-ordinated by one of the prisoners with a passion for wool and organisation. She oversees many prisoners who volunteer their time and expertise and, using donated wool and patterns, she guides and helps them to make useful things. These are then prepared for distribution to the homeless, the children’s hospital and aged care facilities."
Speaking about the project, prisoner participants said "having experienced domestic violence and the resulting homelessness, I know the difference a gift like this can make to someone’s life."
"I hope what I make helps someone in need feel joy."
"Doing something for others makes me feel like my time at Bandyup means something positive."
