Would any of our "craft ladies" like to help?

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

Hi everyone,

I know we have some amazing knitting and sewing wizards here, so I just wanted to post this info in case anyone wants to get involved.

An organisation called Bosom Buddies in South Africa puts together a "care package" for empoverished new moms. Without donations such as these, newborn babies would literally be leaving the hospital in a nappy - with nothing else.

These are what the bags look like:
http://bosombuddies.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/bb_bags_b_4.jpg

And this is what goes into them:
http://bosombuddies.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/what_goes_in_a_bag.jpg

I know it looks like almost NOTHING - but for some of these mums, it's all they have for their newborn. The clothes and towelling diapers are not always new - many are "gently used" - but still much appreciated.

(I will be collecting preemie and newborn baby clothes from everyone I know in an effort to help).

What they REALLY need is a couple of kind sewing ladies to make the bags. It's a VERY simple design, and they have a collection point in California, from where the bags are transported to SA)...

If you would like to read Mel's (the founders) Blog, click here (http://bosombuddies.typepad.com/bosom_buddies/).


You can contact Mel directly via her blog, or PM me for her email address.

(They also have a Paypal button for donations).

[DrKym]

Is there a pattern on the blog? or did I miss it?

I have plenty of "scrap'' fabric that can be used for such a cause.

[cyber-sibes]

I don't sew, but I want to say what a fine thing this is, I know those new moms will be thrilled! When my oldest was born premature, he received a little (and I mean little!) knit cap that was provided by a volunteer group of ladies that knitted caps for all the preemies. That was 24 years ago & I still remember their kindness. :)

[sparks19]

I wish I could Sew. I would love to help... but I am useless as far as sewing and knitting go :(

[Daisy and Delilah]

I was looking for the pattern as well. What type of fabric is used in the bag? I have more fabric than I know what to do with. :)

[DrKym]

I was looking for the pattern as well. What type of fabric is used in the bag? I have more fabric than I know what to do with. :)

I couldn't find it, but I do have an older pattern by McCalls that is similar....I wonder if that would work?

[Daisy and Delilah]

Kym, It probably would work. I was hoping Ally Cats Mommy will log on tomorrow morning. I'm not sure what hours she's on where she is. After reading the blog, I'm so impressed with this project. I don't even have time to sew right now but I think this cause is worth me trying to make time, even if I only do a few for them :)

[DrKym]

I agree.
The bags don't look too labor intensive, so a few hours a week I am certain I can carve out.
What a wonderful way to help out! I have knit several of the blankets and the bootie and hat sets for the charity drives at local centers here.
I am so impressed with this cause though. :)

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

Thanks for the responses everyone!

You can email Mel directly at [email protected] for a pattern and explanation on how to make the bags.

(I am sure she won't mind me posting her email addy here, as it is on her blog, which is public).

[Daisy and Delilah]

Thanks! I emailed her with my inquiry :)

[DrKym]

Me Too!

Thanks Allys Mommy for a great cause to help with!