Grindrod staff create fidget blankets for TAFTA in partnership with Ma Dame Stitch

Grindrod recently celebrated a heartwarming act of creativity and compassion as staff came together to create handcrafted fidget blankets for Alzheimer's patients at TAFTA. The initiative, led by Ma Dame Stitch, brought employees from across the business into the Durban auditorium for a day of learning, collaboration, and meaningful contribution.

Throughout the day, Grindrod ladies and gents, many with little to no sewing experience, gathered to stitch textured fabrics, lettering, zippers, and buttons onto denim squares. What began as a simple crafting session quickly turned into a focused, engaging experience, with participants fully absorbed in the task and eager to learn a new skill.

Ma Dame Stitch hosted multiple workshops throughout the day, teaching staff how to sew special fidget blankets designed to soothe and comfort Alzheimer's patients through tactile stimulation. Each square was carefully crafted with textures and details that can help calm and focus the mind.

At the end of the day, Ma Dame Stitch collected all the completed squares and took them back to their workshop, where they were meticulously sewn together to form the final blankets now being donated to TAFTA.

The event received additional support from Juki. Representatives flew in from Johannesburg with five sewing machines, including an embroidery machine, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable sewing experience for all participants.

Adding important context to the initiative, two nursing sisters from TAFTA addressed the group, sharing valuable insights into Alzheimer's disease, including early warning signs, preventative measures, and practical tips for caring for patients with dementia.

This collaboration showcased the power of teamwork and community engagement, reinforcing Grindrod's ongoing commitment to meaningful social impact.