Wilmot Township Quilters and Knotters stitch for a cause at Steinmann Mennonite Church

These four dedicated volunteers call themselves “knotters, not quilters” – a craft many readers may know the difference between. From left are Shirley Dunford, Ruth Steinman, Yvonne Sawatzky and Irene Jutzi. Gary West photo

By Gary West

The Wilmot Township Quilters and Knotters are once again hard at work at Steinmann Mennonite Church near Baden, using their skills with thread and needle to help people in need around the world.

Each month, a dedicated group of women from various churches across Waterloo Region’s Wilmot Township gathers at Steinmann’s to quilt, knot and share fellowship – combining conversation and craftsmanship in the spirit of compassion.

Before the pandemic, several men also participated in the group, and members say they continue to welcome anyone willing to lend a hand.

“We meet on the first Wednesday of every month,” one quilter said, “and there’s always work – and friendship – to go around.”

Over the years, their quilts have been sent to refugee camps and communities in need across the globe, including in Ukraine and Gaza, where handmade blankets bring both warmth and comfort.

The group also contributes to the annual New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale, creating beautifully hand-stitched quilts that are auctioned each May, with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

Through their work, the Wilmot Quilters and Knotters continue a decades-long tradition of service, offering tangible support to underprivileged communities worldwide.

“We’ll always be here to help where we can,” one member said. “There’s no better feeling than knowing something you made by hand is helping someone in need.”