The terrible earthquake which struck Haiti on 12 January has prompted many people to ask 'what can I do?' Here are three ideas from the knitting world – and if you've heard of more great knitting-related appeals and fund raisers, please do leave a comment to help other knitters find ways to help. Top toy designer Alan Dart has designed Haitian Ada. (shown left) She's a Hispaniolan solenodon, an animal unique to Haiti and the Dominican Republic and her dress was inspired by the Haitian flag. The design is free to download and he hopes that knitters will make a donation to a charity supporting victims of the earthquake and use it to raise funds as well. He'd be thrilled if you knit several to raffle, sell or auction or held a sponsored knitalong. His preferred charity is the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC).
The Yarnharlot, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, has been fundraising through her blog and her campaign Knitters Without Borders has raised over one million US dollars for the charity Doctors Without Borders (link to UK site). If you make a donation as part of the campaign, please email Stephanie and let her know so she can add your donation to the total.
Over on Ravelry designers have pledged profits from over 1,000 patterns to help Haiti making this a guilt-free time to pick up any patterns you've had your eye on.
We're thrilled to see knitters rallying around in a crisis and we know there are lots of appeals we've missed off this list. If you've heard of a great campaign – or a running one – help other knitters find it by leaving a comment below.
