Nelkin is an innovative knitwear designer and pattern maker, known for complex but accessible designs. She has traveled all over the country teaching workshops and classes, many of which are also available online. We are excited to feature her on the blog today to learn more about the event and why she chose to support No Kid Hungry.
How did Knit-A-Thon become an event?
In the pandemic summer of 2020, my daughter came home from college and got a job through Americorps at our local food bank registering community members for their bi-weekly distributions. Her work woke me up to the issue of food insecurity. I had no idea that 12% of the population in my region (the Fingerlakes in upstate New York) is food insecure. And I never would have guessed that 41% of people served at the food bank are children.
If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s that the most vulnerable populations are hit the hardest in times like these. I have always believed in giving back to my community, and I am even more motivated to do so when so many people are in need. I wanted to harness the strength of my beloved knitting community and the Knit-A-Thon was born!
What is a knit-a-thon?!
It’s a 12-hour knitting marathon. Yes, MARATHON!
100% of the money raised is split equally between Meals on Wheels, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Feeding America. In 2021 knitters raised over $265,000!
This year the Knit for Food Knit-A-Thon is taking place virtually on February 12th from 10am-10pm EST. Throughout the day there will be music, yoga and exercises, breakout knitting rooms and speakers.
What was your favorite aspect about the Knit-A-Thon event?
The community that is created, and witnessing knitters putting their love of a craft front and center to make a change.
What led you to include No Kid Hungry as a part of the four organizations?
When choosing which organizations we wanted to donate to, the team had a clear mandate to make sure that the youngest of our population were included. No Kid Hungry has a long and venerable record when it comes to working with youth and the unique struggles they face. We knew that the money we donated would be put to great use!
Are there any hints you can give us for this year’s event?
We are already on track for this year’s event to have more knitters (over 500 are already signed up to fundraise and knit) and to surpass last year’s total. It is thrilling to watch everyone come together and inspire each other to be creative with our fundraising. Many knitters are donating a hand-made item like a gnome, hat, socks and even a Bernie Doll to raffle off to their donors. Working on something positive is warming in a whole other way than our knitting is!
Let’s take two sticks, some string and help keep bellies and hearts full!
If you are interested in participating or would like to make a donation to this year’s Knit-A-Thon event, please visit the event page here.
