Helping hands knit for a cause

High school junior Krista Shugart is doing her part in making the world better — one stitch at a time. Shugart is the founder of a group called Knit/Crochet for a Cause. She recalls stirring the idea around while volunteering to work in a soup kitchen. “Many people would come in without hats or scarves and I knew I could do my part and help people stay a little warmer in the winter.” She took a knitting class to learn the basic skills. Immediately after, Shugart contacted the Presbyterian Church of Sparta who agreed to allow her to hold the knit/crochet group there. The group is 25 strong and growing. Each Wednesday from 7:30 to 8 p.m. they meet to enjoy the camaraderie of peers and help a worthy cause. Their skills are improving and for some, real talent is emerging. “It is amazing that we have accomplished so much in just seven weeks. I think by getting a handcrafted hat, scarf, or blanket made by someone who truly cares is a great thing for both the handcrafter and the recipient,” said Shugart. In those seven weeks the group has six baby blankets, six baby hats, 24 teen/adult hats, and 23 scarves. All the adult items go to Pass It Along’s Holidays Around the County. The baby blankets will be delivered on Christmas by Pastor Tilly Giresi for the Bundles of Joy group at the House of Mercy in Newark. Pastor Tilly, “It’s marvelous what Krista is doing. It is a blessing that she may not truly realize. This blessing is going to extend beyond to give the gift of love to a needy baby.” Shugart, and the rest of the Knit/Crochet for a Cause are reaching out to the community for support, and are welcoming new members. Yarn is needed, if anyone has new or used yarn that could be donated please contact Krista at kristas333@yahoo.com. “I am so happy with the response this group has received, and I am so thankful to the Presbyterian Church for allowing us to use the space,” Krista said Photos and story by Leslie Sullivan