Operation Cover Up is a New Zealand initiative by a team of volunteers who knit and crochet thousands of hand-stitched blankets and garments for children and families in need.
South Island and Dunedin co-ordinator Suzanne Lane was overwhelmed by the efforts of this year’s southern knitters.
"I’m always impressed. It’s just never-ending, the generosity."
Knitters from Dunedin, Mosgiel, Balclutha and Ranfurly used their craft for a cause on the other side of the world.
Each year they sent more than two containers worth of blankets, about 7000 in total.
All the blankets were stunning and all were made from pure wool.
One year the consignment was valued at over $1 million.
The blankets, along with jerseys, scarves and hats, would be sent to countries in Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, Romania, Moldova and Bosnia. Ms Lane said it was hard to know at this stage, but she expected this year’s total to be even larger.
The blankets would be baled up at Taieri Wool and Skins, in Mosgiel, ready to shipped to Auckland today, she said.
tim.scott@odt.co.nz
PIJF cadet reporter
