The sky was overcast but the Grannies were in new brilliant yellow shirts and high spirits on Saturday, June 18th. It was a day to celebrate the National Walk by grandmothers across the country committed to helping grandmothers in Africa. The Oliver group paraded down Main Street to the sound of African music. Holding their colourful banner aloft, they responded with smiles and waves as passing cars honked and gave them the high sign. Their goal was to raise awareness of the needs of intrepid grandmothers in Africa and the work of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
At Lion’s Park, the group of 30 Grannies congregated at their information booth at the Farmer’s Market. On display were Woza Moya beaded dolls. Made by Grannies in an holistic South African project, the unique doll pins are known as Little Travellers. These little travellers are making a positive difference in the lives of men and women affected/infected by HIV and AIDS. By making money with little travellers, families have been fed, lights have been turned on, children have gone to school, water has poured out of taps but most importantly hope has been restored.
Photo right of Thelma Forty, 94, in fine form.
Oliver Grannies embraced the little dolls with enthusiasm and encourage others to collect them too. Come and learn more about them and the work of the Stephen Lewis Foundation when the group joins the Sunshine Festival, Saturday July 16th. The Grannies aren’t hard to spot. Just look for bright yellow shirts and even brighter smiles!
-submitted by Marion Boyd