From Scraps to Strength: Raymond Terrace Lions Stitch Hope for Women in Need

What began as a practical response to a global crisis has evolved into a heartfelt community project – one that is quite literally stitching comfort, dignity and hope into the lives of women and children.

During the height of COVID-19, members of the Raymond Terrace Lions Club turned their attention to making colourful, reusable face masks. The effort was centred at Shirley’s Woodberry Drapery, owned by Linda Campbell, sister of Lion Judith Bee. It felt only natural for the local business to play a role in giving back during such a challenging time.

As masks were produced in large numbers, so too were leftover scraps – small pieces of 100% cotton fabric that might otherwise have been discarded. But instead of heading to landfill, these “crumbs” were carefully saved, waiting for their next purpose.

That purpose has now taken shape in the form of crumb quilts.

Club members, alongside volunteers from the wider community, have come together to transform these fabric remnants into 8½-inch quilt blocks. Additional materials have been generously donated by Linda and other community members, turning the initiative into a true collective effort.

The quilts are being created to support the Raymond Terrace Neighbourhood Centre, which will oversee a new women’s refuge set to open in late 2026. The vision is simple yet powerful: when women and their children arrive at the refuge, they will be able to choose a quilt of their own – something to bring comfort in a difficult time, and to take with them as they move forward.

It’s a project that spans generations. Volunteers range in age from 20 to 94, each contributing in their own way – whether sewing, ironing, measuring, counting blocks, or packing kits. Every task, no matter how small, helps bring another quilt to life.

Support is always welcome. Experienced sewists and enthusiastic beginners alike are encouraged to get involved. For those short on time, there are opportunities to contribute from home after a quick visit to learn the techniques and collect a kit.

Each Wednesday from 10am to 3pm, Linda generously opens her Woodberry premises as a creative hub, where volunteers gather to assemble quilts and connect over a shared purpose.

This project is a reminder that even the smallest pieces – of fabric, of time, of effort – can come together to create something meaningful. In the hands of Lions and their community, scraps are becoming symbols of care, resilience and new beginnings.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Judith Bee on 0427 013 233 or Linda Campbell on 02 4966 2248, or reach out to Shirley’s Woodberry Drapery.