Ladies Weave Compassion into Every Stitch in Hamilton, NZ

Since 2024, the Ladies Wing of the SSSIO in Hamilton, New Zealand, has been knitting and donating beanies, singlets, and booties to hospitals and nursing homes every quarter. On March 28, 2025, they delivered 20 beanies, 8 singlets, and 11 pairs of booties to the Waikato Women’s Delivery Ward, where the donations were warmly appreciated. All items are carefully crafted using baby wool to ensure they are suitable for newborns.

The group gathers every Wednesday for knitting sessions, offering a space to connect, share experiences, and learn new skills. The flexibility of the project allows members to knit individually, even when they are away from Hamilton, while still staying in touch and supporting one another.

In addition to knitting, the group also expanded its service to produce wheat bags – a safe alternative to the traditional hot water bottle or electric heating pad for pain relief and general warmth and comfort. In May, they held several sessions to make 100 wheat bags, which were distributed in June to the Waikato Oncology Chemo Day Stay and local care homes. The wheat bags were especially appreciated for their warmth during the cold winter months.

Alongside the wheat bags, the group made another substantial donation of knitted items to the Waikato Women’s Delivery Ward, including 54 beanies, 7 singlets, 2 jumpers, 15 pairs of booties, and 1 blanket. The ladies’ commitment and warmth continue to make a meaningful difference, and they are truly grateful to Swami for the opportunity to serve the needy.