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I am horribly behind on posting updates of the hats we have received so far. I am trying to post in order of completion whenever possible so bare with me.
These cute hats are from Maria here in the states who found out about us on ravelry. Her cameras batteries died so I promised to photograph them for her and then my camera batteries died! The colors in the photo don't do the work justice, they are actually softer in tone. Sorry Maria:)
Great work yet again! We certainly have talented fiber artists at work here. Stay tuned for more!

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Blog Featured on Desert Peace

I was searching online for comparable groups that work for Palestinian children and needless to say came up empty handed. However..........I did find that Desert Peace did a feature post about Hats Off To Gaza! Very exciting news! Read it here!
If you followed the link from there to here then welcome friends. We are indeed working on hats for Gazas many needy children. Our first campaign is proving to be a success thanks to the hard work of our volunteers. Many have vowed to continue knitting for this cause and we are now working out the details for our next campaign so please keep checking in.
Feel free to contact us here with questions anytime as well. Most of all, help spread the word. As I said, there are no other groups out there serving Palestinian children, not that I have uncovered as of yet. I don't begrudge that other shattered regions do have groups working for the victims but the fact remains that Gaza's children need us more than ever.

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And even more!

These beautiful hats are all made by Sipusa in Norway. Check out her blog where you can see more of her amazing work. Sipusa also made a cute little toy which is a great idea. Comfort toys may be in the works for future campaigns. Thanks you Sipusa!

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More hats

I'm falling behind on posting the hats we are receiving! Here are two wonderful images of hats knit by Tracy in Qatar who will be sending to our European collection point. Our overseas participants have it made since they have a longer period of time to knit more hats. I love the colors you used Tracy. These hats really do look warm as well.
Thanks again!

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On Recruiting Others

I had several teenagers over yesterday, 4 girls and one boy, visiting my children. I showed them the hats that I had received so far and as they oohed and aahed away, it dawned on me that so few young ones have learned the crafts of knitting and crocheting and further, their own parents don't have the skills so don't make hats for them.
When I showed them the bigger hats, they couldn't help themselves, they got twinkles in their eyes hoping it was for them. I then explained to them that the hats were intended for Gazan children. Some of you may think that teenagers are removed from political realities but this is not so. This group actually held the hats to their chests as I spoke and one said, "Oh, I want to knit hats for little Palestinian children!" The others agreed.
I then offered to teach them to crochet in exchange for each one making one hat for the cause. They all jumped at the chance, even the boy.
While I can knit and crochet, I find it hard to teach knitting so crochet it will be. I also promised to teach them how to make something for themselves, their choice.
They then began a discussion about their schools crochet club. They decided to join next week as well. And they volunteered to spread the word.
If you find people interested but don't know how to knit or crochet, why not offer to teach them? Childrens hats can be easy projects. Each hat counts. Give it a try!

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More Hats! Yes!

Ravelry member kirbanita sent these five beautiful hats this week. This photo is used with her permission. Thanks so much kirbanita! I know these will keep children warm and the colors will bring some brightness to a bleak winter.
I have been contacted by several more members who are sending to our European collection point as well. We are nearing the deadline for this campaign in the U.S. now but are going to be regrouping afterwards to plan our next one. Our members have come up with several great ideas on possiblities for ensured delivery which sound very promising. Feel free to give us your ideas.
The level of participation has made me see that the world does indeed care about the innocent victims of conflicts and wars. My pessimism melts with every hat we recieve. Thank you all.

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Ravelry group is up to 35 members! And more news

I am so happy to report that the Ravelry group has 35 members.

It seems the word is finally getting out, and people are joining! Just today a friend I didn't think was interested in this project whatsoever surprised me by accepting my invitation. That was my first bit of good news. The second was the enthusiasm of another lady in my circle, she is all for this and has begun work on her first hat today.

Another good piece of news we received in the last couple days is that we have another person who may be able to deliver our hand made items for future campaigns! If this person comes through, it will be a huge relief, as this is a major obstacle in sending anything at all to Gaza. (Don't need to elaborate here! Anyone who follows the news will see what I mean).

I love it when people come together for a good cause. And what better cause than the betterment of childrens lives?
This really gives me the reassurance that our project is a noble one, and begins to fulfill the hope that we will have many more "campaigns" in the future.

A very good week for Hats Off to Gaza!

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More on the way!

In the last two days I have heard from several participants who are ready to mail their hats. This is just so exciting! Thanks to all who have taken an interest. Remember that in the U.S. our deadline is approaching. November 26.
As soon as I get some more hats, I'll share with photos.
Take care all.

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Our First Hat Has Arrived!

This lovely hat was knit by Diana in Korea. Thanks so much Diana, for the hat and for giving us permission to use your photograph on this blog.
We now have over 30 people on ravelry participating and several members who are actively recruiting other fiber artists who are not ravelry members. The compassion for Gazas children shown by so many has been heartwarming.
If you are visiting for the first time, this blog is under construction so if you would like more information, feel free to use the comments button or to email us. Eventually we will have all the information here on the blog.
Thanks for your patience, encouragment and participation. Now go knit or crochet!

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