Knitting the World a Better Place: Shalom Austin’s Adult 60+ Programming Brings Compassionate Crafters Together

A volunteer with Mitzvah Knitters knits during a recent gathering. Credit: Dave Hawks

By Matthew Medina, Shalom Austin Adult Program Coordinator

It’s Friday morning and the doors of B’Nai Abraham in Austin are open and ready to welcome the Mitzvah Knitters with their lively conversation, friendly faces, and most importantly, their beautiful creations. A staple of Shalom Austin’s Adult Programs, the Mitzvah Knitters are a group of women who meet bi-monthly at Shalom Austin JCC and knit various items for those in need. The Mitzvah Knitters not only serve the community through their knitted items, but it also provides an opportunity to connect with the commu­nity, learn the art of knitting and crochet, and make lifelong friends.

In 2020 when everything seemed to pause, not even a pandemic could stop the Mitzvah Knitters! Although meeting in person was not possible in the early days of quarantine, they continued to knit and crochet safely in their homes because they knew the needs of the community were ongoing. The materials used to create these treasures are all generously provided through the financial support of Shalom Austin Jewish Family Service as well as donations of yarn and craft store gift cards. The blankets, scarves, and hats knit by volunteers have found homes through donations at the Ronald McDonald House, Refugee Services Texas, and the Special Olympics.

To learn more, contact Rachel Wimberley, Shalom Austin Older Adult Social Services Director, rachel. wimberley@shalomaustin.org.

Mitzvah Knitters

1ST & 3RD FRIDAY | 10 AM

Give back to our community by volunteering your time and talent at the J! For those who knit or crochet, or want to learn how, this is the place to be! Projects vary each season and blankets, stuffed animals, hats and scarves are given to those who are less fortunate. Materials are provided. The Mitzvah Knitters meet at B’Nai Abraham.