New-Brunswick craft organizations launch “Warm Welcome” initiative for Syrian refugees.
Artsnb, in association with the New-Brunswick Crafts Council, the Fredericton Public Library, Yarns on York, the Multicultural Association of Fredericton and the Atlantic Institute on Aging have launched A Warm Welcome, an initiative calling on craftspeople of New-Brunswick to provide hand-made clothes and blankets for newly arrived Syrian refugees.
“We know that here in Fredericton, we’re expecting families from Syria this month, and into the New Year.” says Akoulina Connell, Executive Director of artsnb. “The damp cold of a Maritime winter is something we are very familiar with. So many New Brunswickers can knit, crochet, weave, felt, etc. We know how to use our hands to warm body and soul. It’s a long tradition, and it’s time to share it!”
Knitters, crocheters, weavers, felters and quilters of all skill levels are invited to participate. Suggested donations include, but are not limited to, hats, mittens, sweaters, socks, blankets and throws suitable for the full scale of age ranges.
Donations will be accepted until Friday, January 29th, at which point the goods will be collected and dropped off at Base Gagetown, Oromocto. Drop-off locations up to Jan 29th include:
Artsnb office – 649 Queen street, Fredericton (Isaac’s Way building, 2nd floor)
Yarns on York – 72 York street, Fredericton
Fredericton public library – 12 Carleton street, Fredericton
While the three drop-off locations are located in Fredericton, participation in the initiative is open and encouraged to all New-Brunswickers. For more information, please visit artsnb on Facebook.
