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We are a Non-Profit Community-based Organisation in Pietermaritzburg South Africa committed to preserving our Cultural Heritage
Plessislaer Arya Samaj Knitters Group
About the PAS Knitters Group
The Plessislaer Arya Samaj Knitters Group began in response to an invitation from The Heal Foundation to create beanies for newborns. Starting with six members, the group has grown to 12 members and a youth group of five, led by senior member Mrs. Sabitha Maharaj. Over the years, they have received wool donations from the Heal Foundation, PAS members, and friends, (they have also purchased their own wool), and have knitted 250 beanies distributing these to various hospitals, charities, and organizations, including Aryan Benevolent Home, local hospitals and schools.
CANSA ASSOCIATION
The group has expanded its projects to include knitting booties, vests, and beanies for premature babies, supporting the PAS Youth Group’s cancer awareness program, and creating breast prostheses for women who have undergone mastectomies. They have donated 94 knitted prosthetics to Greys Hospital Oncology unit and South African CANSA Association.
HEAL FOUNDATION ASSA
The PAS Knitters group have been working on a project whereby knitted blankets will be distributed to the aged and children in need, thanks to a donation from the Heal Foundation ASSA. The group’s enthusiasm and dedication have enabled them to make a significant impact in their community through their knitting projects.
WINTER WARMTH 2024
A colourful assortment of beautifully knitted blankets were on display at Piggly Wiggly. The display included creations by the Light a Sparkle Foundation. These items will be distributed throughout South Africa. We are proud to announce that members of the PAS Knitters Group contributed knitted squares, which were then joined together by skilled artisans to create these beautiful blankets. Senior member of the PAS Knitters group, Mrs Sabitha Maharaj together with a few other members kindly sponsored the wool.
JULY 2025 '67 MINUTES MANDELA DAY INITIATIVE'
On Friday 18/07/2025 members of PAS knitters group attended the Yarn Bomb in collaboration with Mindful Arts Society. This was in celebration of 67 minutes of community service for Nelson Mandela Day.
The members donated 67 beanies, squares and bunnies as service to the community.
Activities included, poetry; storytelling, singing; dancing; learning of different art skills and interaction with various organizations. An extremely enjoyable and educational experience was enjoyed by all present.
On Saturday 19/07/2025 PAS Knitters group visited the Pietermaritzburg Childrens Home in Woodlands. Our members served the residents breakfast, and a snack and donated a beanie to each child.