Yarn Bombing at Royal Oak Senior Living: A Meaningful Collaboration by Peri Hayes Leslie Giesbrecht, Director of Communications and Engagement with DeafBlind Ontario Services, joined forces last year with Royal Oak Senior Living as a means to support ‘The Knit Wits Knitting Club’ upon its inception. This group gathers every Friday at 2:00 pm, year-round. During this time, the current eight members prepare various squares, wearable hats, mittens, scarves and more -- entailing crocheted, cross-stitching, hand-quilled pieces and beyond. Involved since the beginning, Margaret McLean and Claire Champ credit this club for keeping their hands active and their minds nourished. Margaret shares, “I’ve been knitting since I was young, learning different patterns and techniques.” Meanwhile, Claire, a natural creative with extensive experience in party decorating, enjoys challenging herself: “They test me.” Yarn Bombing has brought these individuals together, ultimately fostering quality friendship. Shannon Rose of the Recreation Department voices, “They’ve been working very hard.” Nathan Cook, Recreation Manager, proceeds, “Resident-based programs are our driving motivation.” As a means to give back to the community, Nathan shares the ways in which this group assembles donations for their Christmas Bazaar, St. Thomas Elgin Food Bank and The Salvation Army. This knitting club has partnered with DeafBlind Ontario Services to connect with the senior population, spread dual sensory loss awareness and spark interest. With June recognized as National Deafblind Awareness Month, The Knit Wits’ creations are presently showcased through three installations at the following locations: Pinafore Park, the Elgin Centre and the St. Thomas Public Library. ‘Grandma’s Living Room’ is on display at the Elgin Centre, which features various knitted furniture, walkers, an adorable furry companion and more. “We have such an artistic culture,” Leslie expresses with gratitude. “The support from the City and the Elgin Centre
warms my heart.” As a St. Thomas local, she feels proud to honour this connection within the community. Moreover, Leslie enthusiastically describes, “These ladies have big dreams, and I love it. They have created this incredible vision.” Another testament to their determination is the 20 ft-long scarf, which was designed with Jumbo in mind. Though not worn by the elephant statue, the group did bring their idea to fruition. Leslie continues, “Once these ladies had a goal in mind, that was it.” Royal Oak Senior Living will be represented at the Seniors’ Picnic in the Park later this month. With inquiries about their ongoing collaboration with DeafBlind Ontario Services, email Leslie at l.giesbrecht@deafblindontario.com. A QR code can also be found at their installations for learning about the population which DeafBlind Ontario Services proudly serves on a provincial scale.
Sing, Dance, Play an instrument, Tell Jokes? Audition registration is now open! Simply call 519-495-7177 or email stthomasseniorsgottalent@gmail.com with your name, phone number or email address and talent to sign up for our October 2nd auditions! Media Sponsors:
ST. THOMAS SENIORS GOT TALENT 3
Proudly sponsored by:
To advertise here contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 3
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs