Needlesmith Are Asked to Help Make A Difference by Creating and Donating Handcrafted Items for Children in Need

The fifth annual Philadelphia Area Knit Out and Crochet event will be held Sunday, Sept. 10, 2006, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City Philadelphia. This year, needlesmiths are asked to help make a difference for a child in need. Knitting (crocheting and weaving) communities together for increased civic good.

(PRWEB) August 12, 2006 -- The fifth annual Philadelphia Area Knit Out and Crochet event will be held Sunday, Sept. 10, 2006, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City Philadelphia.

A celebration of the needle arts of knitting and crocheting, the event attracts hundreds of enthusiasts every year. The event will feature beginning knitting and crochet lessons, a fashion show promenade, lessons in a variety of knit and crochet techniques, door prizes and an opportunity to donate hand-made items to two charities.

This year, needlesmiths are asked to help make a difference for a child in need. They are asked to make and donate a small blanket or stuffed animal to District Attorney Lynne Abraham's Urban Genesis program, whereby police distribute these items when they find small children in chaotic circumstances, as they investigate domestic cases.

In addition, hand-made hats, mittens and scarves are requested for City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown's Warmth In Winter Holiday Drive. This annual program distributes hundreds of warm items to homeless children in need across the city during the winter.

"It's exciting to offer our participants a way of really showcasing their skills and giving to two worthy charities," said Gwen Agard, executive director of the Knit Out.

"We are asking that people bring their handcrafted donations with them to the Knit Out on Sunday, Sept. 10th," said Pam Jones, core volunteer member of the Philadelphia Area Knit Out & Crochet event team. "A hat, scarf, or soft huggable can be started now and finished either before or at the Knit Out." A drop-off location will be situated in the main hall.

For five years the Philadelphia Area Knit Out has provided needlework enthusiasts with the opportunity to work in community. Sharing information, techniques, skills and wisdom are highlights of the day. Men, women and children flock to the event where the atmosphere is warm, welcoming, caring and inspiring.

This fun filled needlearts celebration also provides opportunities for volunteering; everything from pre-event preparations to teaching, modeling fashions and helping at the registration desk and with door prize drawings.

"We need many hands from the community to make this happen," said Agard. "We count on everyone, from corporate sponsors, local businesses, and individuals to make this work."

That includes financial donations. "The Knit Out is free," said Agard. "But it costs money to get it up and running. Donations are always needed and welcome."

The Philadelphia Area Knit Out and Crochet Event is free and open to all.

For information about the day, how to make donations or information about volunteer opportunities, contact Gwen Agard, 215-928-9960.

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