Kangaroos and koalas get some love from central Ohio crafters
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The raging wildfires in Australia are taking a big toll on animals and birds across that country. Countless koalas have been burned to death. They aren’t as fast as the kangaroos, which you may have seen in video fleeing the fires in droves. It’s estimated that as many as one-half billion animals and birds have been killed or displaced in the fires.
Across the United States and here in Central Ohio, there is a move to help the hurt and homeless creatures. Crafters are putting their talents to work, crocheting, knitting, and sewing for a cause.
The Animal Rescue Craft Guild and the Animal Rescue Collective are teaming up with volunteers.
Karolanne Carter has agreed to help organize the Columbus area donations. “I saw there was something that I could use my hobby for to help and I just knew I had to. They will know that we care. The American group that has been created off the main Australian group for this has gotten 3,300 members in the last 48 hours,” said Carter.
"It definitely is heartbreaking to see everything going on in Australia.”
I hope it’s something that they will be able to get the fires and everything under control soon, but it is definitely sad and heartbreaking to see all that,” Carter said.
The self-proclaimed animal lover was crocheting a “joey pounce” out of a blue-gray yarn in her living room on Monday.
‘I love animals. So anyway I can help I want to. Because they are all living breathing creatures just like us and they deserve to be helped too.”
“The fires are ruining the habitats in the area. So not even just for the injured but also ones losing their homes as a result of these fires.
I will be collecting all the items that people make and finish, and I will be getting them transported so the MidWest hub in Illinois will send over to Australia,” said Carter, who said people can private message her on her Facebook account for additional information on how to donate.
Carter learned her craft on YouTube. “I like making blankets, particularly baby items. Little items and clothes for kids. I have made stuffed animals, hats, scarves, you name it.”
The Facebook site for the group shares the patterns for the needed items.”Luckily the patterns aren’t too complicated,” said Carter.
“Little kangaroos or marsupials will be able to pretty much have a little place to snuggle up in these.”
