By Leslie Feldman
Esther Gold makes patients and families cry on purpose.
Whenever her "Knitting Nook" group at the Klein Branch of the Jewish Community Centers of Philadelphia delivers finished projects to a hospital, eyes fill with tears.
"They just really love the items we donate," says Gold, who has been heading the knitting group since its inception four years ago. "Receiving a blanket or scarf that has been created with love touches people's hearts and makes them feel good."
In a world where medical supplies are ordered by the hundreds, the knitted keepsakes add an individual touch. The group of more than 25 knitters meets weekly to make afghans, lap robes, wheelchair pockets, pillows, even stuffed toys and dolls.
"The hospital is full of so many impersonal items," Gold says. "Having a handmade item given to a baby adds a sense of home here in the midst of a very sterile environment."
Gold, who doesn't like to call herself a "professional" knitter, used to sit in the center's lobby and knit, and women would come up to her and ask questions about their own knitting projects. Eventually, the center's program director approached Gold about forming a knitting club.
They have donated to Fox Chase Cancer Center, Children's Hospital, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Shriner's Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House.
While 25 people or so actually meet to knit, others contribute. Yarn is donated, and a few knitters work from home, with their items picked up by other members of the group.
"The women feel vital and important. They know how much the patients appreciate each article that was handmade with love and care," says Jeanne Joseph, program and volunteer coordinator at the center. "We promote these types of initiatives because they give seniors meaning and purpose — a reason to get up in the morning. It also gives them a means of socialization and sense of community."
To join the "Knitting Nook" or to donate yarn, you may call the Klein Branch at 215-698-7300, ext. 196.