Connected by Threads in north Longford: Yarn Bombing project brightens up Granard
A well-knitted community is a healthier, happier one
The 2024 Yarn Bombing Project, ‘Nurturing Mental Health’, brightened the town of Granard throughout the month of June. The theme this year was Biodiversity.#
This marks the fifth year of this wonderful initiative, established by Lus na Gréine Family Resource Centre in partnership with St Christopher's in Longford.
At the heart of the project is the fact that a well-knitted community is a healthier, happier one.
The colourful, yarn and crocheted pieces adorned the town to raise awareness of the importance of community support and of staying connected.
The initiative reinforces the message that it's okay not to be okay and encourages anyone experiencing life challenges to reach out for support.
Lus na Gréine Family Resource Centre (FRC) offers a wide range of access to social support groups, holistic wellbeing, and operates a busy one to one therapeutic and confidential counselling service.
Through Longford Westmeath Children and Young People's Services (CYPSC) and Healthy Longford the FRC also delivers a Family Wellness programme, Youth Mental Health workshops and Zenfit fitness, stress management and mindfulness for all age groups completely free throughout 2024.
The success of the yarn bombing project is due to the dedication of many volunteer crafters stitching together from across the region, many of whom spend the year planning and preparing this significant annual event.
The knitters at St Christopher's eagerly knit wonderful creations with the support of the indomitable Jean Healy and Teresa Lynch and their team of amazing volunteers. Special thanks go to them and to all involved including the Derrylin Knitters for their exceptional support.
Both Lus na Gréine FRC and St Christopher’s send their gratitude to all who have helped, including local businesses and the wider community.
The yarn creations reminded us all that a kind word or deed can light up someone's day and lift a burden.