THE North Arm Cove Stitch Gatherers have raised almost $2,000 for Cancer Council following their successful soup kitchen event.

Formed in 2005, the group consists of ladies with various skills in knitting, crochet, quilting and needlework who have taken on many projects over the years to raise money for various charities.

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Since 2012, these fundraisers have been linked to the NSW Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea event in May.

Annette Searl, a member of the Stitch Gatherers, told News Of The Area that although the fundraiser’s format was altered this year, it was still a successful event.

“The soup kitchen was a deviation from the usual format,” Annette said.

“There was no Biggest Morning Tea for almost two years due to COVID restrictions and not wanting to wait until May 2023, the Stitch Gatherers chose a wintery day in July as the perfect time to offer a soup lunch.

“They personally donated approximately 40 litres of home-made soup and ran the kitchen, raffles and sales on the day,” Annette said.

The group’s hard work paid off, raising a grand total of $1,881.

The North Arm Cove Stitch Gatherers choose to support and fundraise for the NSW Cancer Council for a multitude of reasons, most prominently the effect of cancer on the ageing population of the area.

“The average age of North Arm Cove residents is 60-plus and many have been touched by cancer, either personally or through family and friends,” Annette said.

“Personally, I have been afflicted by three different types of cancer (breast, uterine and bowel) and have only survived through early detection and advances in treatment.”

Annette says that this early detection would not be possible without the efforts of groups such as the Stitch Gatherers in raising money for vital cancer research.

Planning is now underway for 2023’s fundraising event.

“It may be a Biggest Morning Tea in May, a Christmas in July, or another soup kitchen.

“Whatever the outcome, the North Arm Cove Stitch Gatherers will be ready and willing,” Annette said.

By Tara CAMPBELL