During mid-winter, we all appreciate the warmth and cosiness of a blanket or quilt. For young victims of abuse, a quilt can provide a whole new level of comfort and connection to Country.
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Healing for Dhalayis (Dunghutti word for Children) is a project where ladies from the Joint Investigation Response Team at Kempsey Hospital give quilts or cushions to children who have experienced sexual or physical abuse.
Designs are block printed onto fabrics by members of the Schools As Community Centres playgroup, which is held at Kempsey’s Dalaigur Preschool each Tuesday. These fabrics, sporting culturally appropriate art, stories and symbols, are then sewn into quilts and pillows by community volunteers.
Karen Hall, a facilitator at Schools As Community Centres said the program has been running for a number of years as a form of support for individuals who have experienced trauma.
“It was identified that culturally appropriate resources would be beneficial for Aboriginal families who experienced child protection issues. For example, if an Aboriginal child is in the care of child protection or health services, the quilts and cushions can have an extremely positive and calming effect on the individuals who receive them.”
“These items become a symbol of caring and unity to assist with the management of trauma related symptoms and enhance the clients’ spiritual, cultural and therapeutic treatment.”
Free workshop for kids at Sculpture in the Gaol
A healing quilt will be on display at this year’s Sculpture in the Gaol opening gala day at Trial Bay Gaol, this Sunday, August 5.
Kids can participate in a free workshop at the event, creating their own design on a piece of material, which could be made into quilts or cushions at a later date. Kids will also be able to make block prints to take home.
Entry to the opening gala day is just $2.
For further information, find Sculpture in the Gaol on Facebook and follow @sculptureinthegaol on Instagram.
Another display of healing quilts and blankets can be found at Coastline Credit Union in South West Rocks from early September.
