Home-grown homes

By Monique
Since the recent bushfires Mrs Rogers and her club of seamstresses have been making the influx of animals easier by sewing wildlife pouches and capture blankets at Coldstream.
Their original aim was to make 5000 pouches, however, Mrs Rogers said that at last count they had created 9235.
“We thought 5,000 would be a lot but they went just like that so we’re going to round it up to 10,000,” Mrs Rogers said.
Their pouches and capture blankets have been donated to more than 600 wildlife carers across Victoria and were all created using donated materials.
More than 150 sewing enthusiasts also donated their time to help create the pouches, and she said she had been touched by the generosity of others.
“It’s been one of the most challenging projects that I’ve been a part of. It certainly wasn’t on my ‘to do’ list, but it was meant to be,” she said.
“Sewing these blankets and pouches has bought the Coldstream community and wider community together and given us a focus.
“So many people wanted to help but didn’t know how and this project has helped ordinary people become part of the recovery process.”
She said the experience had opened her eyes to how tough times could be for some wildlife carers. She has also been encouraging businesses to adopt or sponsor a local shelter.
While the sewing machines will soon be packed away, a list of volunteer sewing helpers has been created so that additional blankets and pouches can be made on demand and distributed through Wildlife Supplies.
For more information or to become involved please visit www.ripplesonthepond.com.au