Intergenerational Bonds Strengthened at St Joseph's Primary School, Alstonville

St Joseph's Primary School's, Alstonville, 'The Yarners' initiative weaves generations together as parishioners and students unite over knitting, creating lasting bonds and blankets. (Term 2)

An impactful intergenerational initiative was recently launched at St Joseph’s Primary School, Alstonville, strengthening ties between the school and the parish community.  Called ‘The Yarners,’ this group brings together parishioners and students during weekly lunchtime sessions to learn knitting techniques such as French knitting, finger knitting, and pom pom making. 

In partnership with the St Vincent de Paul Alstonville, The Yarners produced knitted squares that were assembled into blankets for the Vinnies Winter Appeal. The group completed a dozen blankets and presented them at a recent school assembly, moving attendees with stories of their impact on those in need.

‘The interaction between the older and the young was remarkable. I was surprised to hear the children asking the ladies about their lives, and they were genuinely interested. On arrival each week, the smiling faces of the children were so special; becoming more familiar and confident, they eagerly anticipated hearing the ladies’ stories, and the progress in knitting was astounding. It was a win-win situation, and I know a few ladies who are already missing it,’ said Anne Kenny, Parishioner and President of the Alstonville Conference of St Vincent de Paul.

The Yarners has been a great success, with positive feedback from both students and parishioners. Parishioners valued sharing their skills, while students enjoyed forming bonds through shared activities. 

‘I thought it was a lovely initiative from the school to support our parish Conference of St Vincent de Paul involving the whole parish community,’ said Adrienne Bucknole, Parishioner and Vinnies Volunteer.

Plans are now underway to expand the collaboration, including a new partnership with the parish Hospitality Team for an upcoming bake sale to support a social justice initiative. The Yarners continue to meet every Thursday, maintaining the momentum of this successful program.