It’s been nearly two weeks since my knitting group - The Worsted Witches - participated in this year’s Knit for Food event, so I guess all I can say at this point is… better late than never?
If you’re not familiar, the concept of Knit for Food is simple yet powerful: individuals or groups spend 12 hours knitting during exclusive Zoom events to bring awareness to food insecurity and raise money for Feeding America, World Central Kitchen (one of my favorite non-profits), Team No Kid Hungry, and Meals on Wheels America.
I mean, even if you don’t care about other people and/or children, it’s an excuse to knit for 12 hours, so what could go wrong?
This is the second year my witches have hosted a gathering for the day, but the fourth year this amazing event has existed - and we keep breaking records. In 2024, we raised $379,010, which is 111% of the original goal. Combined over the years, we have raised over one million dollars to combat hunger - kind of amazing given the fact knitting as a hobby is often scoffed at (I’m not bitter).
Even without the donations, it’s a worthwhile event for other reasons. Knit for Food often sparks conversations about food insecurity and poverty, raising awareness and prompting action within communities. By shedding light on these pressing issues, the initiative encourages us all to reflect on our privilege and consider how we can contribute to creating a more equitable society - even if it’s “just” through knitting.
Honestly, it’s a good way to give back while having fun.
If you’re interested in joining us in person next year, make sure to follow our Instagram for updates or subscribe to Laura Nelkin’s blog. Laura is our fearless leader and does such a great job putting together this event with phenomenal virtual programming every year. It’s because of her that each event is more successful year over year, and I can only imagine how much work goes into it. I know she’ll never read this, but let’s all give a round of applause to Laura for giving us another way we can use our talents to give back to not only our local communities, but also the world at large.
See you in 2025!