At Peninsula Villages, the combination of skill, passion, and a love for craft creates a ripple of joy and comfort for residents, and now children, through the efforts of our craft group. This dedicated team of volunteers and residents meets every Monday at Pam Palmer House in the Village to handcraft comfort teddies for the local NSW Ambulance Service, which provide a cuddly sense of security to children during their journeys to hospital.
Recently, the craft group at Peninsula Villages were honoured to have Allen McKinlay from the Woy Woy Ambulance Station visit and accept over 50 handmade comfort teddies. Allen's mother, Margaret, is a resident at Pam Palmer House and an active member of the craft group. The pride and satisfaction in the room were palpable as the group presented their creations, knowing they would soon be bringing comfort to children needing a cuddle.
The inspiration behind this heartwarming initiative is Beverly Lane from Pozieres House, who brought her experience of crafting comfort teddies to Peninsula Villages. Her vision has been enthusiastically embraced by our community, making a tangible difference in the lives of both residents and the children who receive a comfort teddy.
The craft group also includes volunteers Colleen Hunter, Kerrie Gardner, and Di Hudson, alongside other residents who share this common purpose. This core group of 7 to 8 residents not only makes teddies but also creates stuffed animals for the Children's Ward at Gosford Hospital, extending their goodwill even further.
A touching testimony from a staff member highlights the impact of these comfort teddies. Recalling a childhood memory, they expressed how much solace a teddy brought during a hospital visit after breaking an arm – sometimes a teddy that remains with them today.
The craft group at Peninsula Villages exemplifies how creativity and care can intersect to foster community spirit and support those in vulnerable moments. Meeting every Monday from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at Pam Palmer House, they continue to weave threads of kindness, stitch by stitch, teddy by teddy.
This program showcases the meaningful contributions of aged care residents and volunteers, highlighting their creativity and compassion. The Teddy Bear Project is a testament to the positive impact that can be achieved when people come together to share their talents and care for our community.
