TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — As the world’s largest volunteer force gathers in Australia to help battle unprecedented wildfires, crafters from around the globe are putting their skills to use to help the injured animals.
The latest estimate is that nearly half a billion animals have been injured, killed or otherwise negatively impacted by the wildfires in Australia. Injured or displaced animals have benefited from donated items such as koala mittens, joey pouches, bat wraps and blankets.
The
American Rescue Crafters Connect
has compiled approved patterns for the items. The group has around 41,000 members nationally and well over 200 in southern Indiana alone.
Locally, two sewing and crochet events have been scheduled for crafters who want to help.
The events will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 and from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 at Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts Store in Terre Haute.
A limited number of sewing machines will be available at JoAnn’s on a first-come/first-served basis. Crafters will be allowed to bring their own machines as well.
While some fabric and materials may be available, crafters are encouraged to bring their own or purchase it at the store.
Completed projects that have been washed with equal parts white vinegar and baking soda, have absolutely no pet/animal exposure and have no loose threads can be dropped off at Jo-Anne’s on or before Jan. 21.
Additional information can be found at the Southern Indiana Animal Rescue Crafters
Facebook page
.
Those who can’t sew or crochet can still help by donating to the
GoFundMe page
to help with shipping costs.
