Sewing for Australia
By EW, Age 11, Surfside 4-H

 

In 2019, Australia suffered from an extremely dry spring. Now, in January 2020, the country is experiencing historic wildfires. Scientists estimate that 500 million to 1 billion animals will be lost from the fires. Many of the animals are now injured or parentless, needing to be rescued. 

My mom’s friend contacted me about a chance to help the animals being rescued by using my sewing skills to make wildlife pouches. I’m currently in my 3rd year taking sewing in 4-H. The sewing project has taught me how to use my sewing machine proficiently. We mainly used French seams, which was also a skill I learned in 4-H. I was able to make 5 pouch inserts and one outer casing.

Together with the items made by the other volunteers, my pouches will be shipped to Australia to help wallabies, kangaroo joeys, brush-tailed possums, and other recovering critters. If you want to learn how you can help, contact the Animal Rescue Collective or check out their craft guild for the patterns.