Knitting Group go beyond the 'bear' minimum to stitch hope into teddy

Published on 01 May 2025

KNITTING GROUP GO BEYOND THE ‘BEAR’ MINIMUM STITCHING HOPE INTO EVERY TRAUMA TEDDY

Children who are sick, injured, or experiencing hardship could have a new cuddly companion thanks to the generosity and hard work of the Wetherill Park Crochet and Knitting Group.

Meeting on the first and third Thursday of the month at Wetherill Park Library, the tight-knit group lovingly knit, sew, stuff, and label around 25 trauma teddies per month, making more than 200 teddies each year.

The teddies are distributed to vital services across our City, including Fairfield Hospital, Fairfield City Police Women’s Domestic Violence Unit, NSW Health Sexual Assault Services in South Western Sydney, and the Wetherill Park Community Centre — helping to bring comfort to those in need, especially children. Each teddy undergoes careful quality control to ensure it’s safe and comforting.

Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone praised the group’s efforts.

“It makes me incredibly proud to know that members of our community are contributing to this effort,” Mayor Carbone said.

“These teddies may seem small, but they provide a huge amount of comfort to children and families facing difficult times.

“It is a simple act of kindness with long-lasting impact.”

The Wetherill Park Crochet and Knitting Group was awarded Volunteer of the Year at Council’s 2024 Australia Day Community Awards — and for good reason. It’s the heart and dedication behind every stitch that truly sets this group apart, making their selfless commitment to helping others, deserving of recognition.