warm hearts in winter
This time last year, your Intrepid Express editor decided it was time to set a New Year’s resolution that would make a difference for somebody else. For some very strange reason, I also felt compelled to knit.
Now I’m certainly not an avid knitter and like all of us, don’t have much free time, but I made a pact with myself that while watching television I would cast on some stitches for children in Mongolia.
The Intrepid Foundation has been a big supporter of the Lotus Children’s Centre for many years now and since the kids there have to endure incredibly harsh winters, I thought this was a perfect choice.
After a few months I had a collection of colourful pure wool pullovers ready to send, so popped them in the post and crossed my fingers that they would arrive safely. I hadn’t heard anything for ages and feared the worst, then suddenly on Christmas eve I received the best gift – a card from the Lotus children. I was quite overcome when I read their gorgeous card and it was so wonderful to know that something I had made would make a difference.
So don’t underestimate the warmth you will feel from helping someone else. It’s true that many charities prefer cash donations these days to help support a variety of projects, and I urge you to donate via the Intrepid Foundation so that your money will be doubled by Intrepid Travel. But if there is an opportunity to contribute something more personal, I say jump at the chance. I’ve already started knitting again and I think 2010 will be the year for GOONJ.
That’s a great idea.I quite often knit on the way to work in the train and have quite a lot of wool that has been collected over the years – I could knit up but what sizes are needed?
What about beanies, scarves and knitted blankets? Where would I send them?
I look forward to hearing more about your knitting.
What a wonderful inspiration. I have printed out this wonderful story and will pass onto a large group of retired people I know that are associated with walk groups, Rotary, Lions, Probus and other fabulous organisations that take up causes just like this.
Good on you knitter! What an amazing gift for xmas to receive a great card. Bet a few tears were shed on that one! Well done again.
Hi Susan and Julie,
Thanks so much for your kind comments, I’m glad that the article gave you a little inspiration and you’ve inspired me to keep knitting
In regards to sizes, based on the info on the Lotus website at http://www.lotuschild.org I think this is open as they look after kids of all ages. The website also gives details of how to send items. Obviously money is what they need most, but it’s great to be able to assist Lotus and other organisations by providing something else that is practical.
Best wishes,
Sue, Intrepid Express editor
Lotus looks after kids of all ages, from babies to teenagers, so if you would like to knit for Lotus then any size is fine! To make sure that anything you make is delivered to Lotus without them having to pay any fees at the post office, the best way to send donations would be via our Intrepid office in Beijing. From Beijing we have regular trips depart to Mongolia and we have one of our leaders make sure they are delivered straight to Lotus in UB. We will update our Trip Notes for departures running through Mongolia regularly with information on any other donation wishes Lotus might have. Our basix Trans Mongolian trips actually stay at a Guesthouse run by Lotus in UB so other than The Intrepid Foundation that’s another way our travellers can support the great work that they do!