Brenda is married to Russell, who is a Yupik Eskimo, and she is very committed to the families of the region. Almost 90% of the Yupik Eskimo women are on public assistance of some sort, and live a subsistence lifestyle of living off the land. Their life is hard in this remote and isolated area where the winter temperatures fall to 40 degrees below Fahrenheit. Often the mothers are forced to leave their families for a month prior to giving birth, to ensure that they are able to deliver their babies more safely.
The call went out, and in no time at all, knitters were mobilised. Members, partners and friends of Otahuhu Rotary have knitted more than 100 spectacular woollen hats in a rainbow of colours and a wide range of styles. Special mention is made of Past President Jeanette Drysdale who has already knitted 80 beanies.
They are on their way to Brenda in Bethel, Alaska, with some also going to the Rotarian Team Leader Vivian Finlay to distribute to other communities in outlying areas to help in the northern winter. But we won’t be stopping there because there is also a great need for woollen baby blankets and clothes (3-6 months preferred), nursing nightgowns, and sewers who can make nursing covers for breastfeeding mums.
This is a great example of the practical benefits arising from a vocationally-oriented GSE Team. Four other clubs are keen to join the action. If you can also help, please contact Past Assistant Governor Penny Leyland via email penny.leyland@gmail.com.
