A Day of Community and Creativity at Highfield House
This past half-term holiday, we teamed up with Highfield House so the wonderful folks within the Highfield community could have a day filled with creativity, crafts, laughter, and connection. The event aimed to bring families closer while engaging in creative activities. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the heartwarming moments and the positive impact this gathering had on the Highfield community.
Crafting Sun and Wind Catchers:
The day kicked off with a delightful crafting session where families gathered to make Sun and Wind Catchers. Using easily accessible items like old CDs and string, participants infused creativity into every piece.
Spooky Crafts for October:
With it being October, we set up a crafting station, specifically for the festivities. The children enthusiastically engaged in crafting spooky decorations, bringing an extra layer of fun to the event. Laughter echoed as the kids played, and parents had the chance to catch up with their fellow community members.
We all spoke about the traditions of Halloween and where they came from, as well as learning about the interesting history of sun and wind catchers.
Building Strong Connections this Half Term Holiday:
Beyond the crafting tables, the event provided a space for families to come together. These events are also making the community center feel more like home, as each service user added a touch of their creativity to the garden. The success of the day was evident as people did not want to leave and asked if it was possible to extend the event and stay longer.
The Highfield Community:
Highfield, situated on the outskirts of Gateshead, is an ex mining (pit) village. Since the factories closed, it has become an area of deprivation. It is often overlooked and forgotten. With recent budget cuts, the funding available has become even more restricted as it has gone towards supporting the infrastructure of Central Gateshead. The area is struggling with high levels of drugs, crime and suicide. The community, especially this generation of parents, are desperate for change. However, events like these shed light on the potential for positive change. By making such gatherings a regular occurrence, we can offer much-needed support to those in the community who need it most.
The feedback:
“That is a great idea” regarding the cd’s and sticks to make sun/ wind catchers.
“So therapeutic to watch, reminds us of a jellyfish” a couple said.
“Nice sensory catchers” noticed by mums.
“We loved getting involved making catchers for our homes.”
“The lights catches them on a night time too!”
One person said, “I could have them all over.” She made a lot and took home to hang in the garden
Four of the children especially loved making the dolls out of Sticks poly balls, pipe cleaners and
fabric offcuts. See their creations in our TikTok Video!
Everyone went home with a winter pansy too.
People didn’t want to leave and we wish we could have had them longer.
Our volunteer, Megan, made a great sun catcher out of a stick, ribbon, c.d and beading for the house’s garden.
A Call for Support:
We believe in the transformative power of community engagement, and we’re reaching out for your support. Whether it’s donating your time, contributing financially, providing resources, or simply showing support through a like and comment, every bit counts. Our vision is to make these events a regular feature, bringing hope and support to the residents of Highfield.
The success of our recent collaboration with Highfield House underscores the importance of community-driven initiatives. By coming together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Join us in building a stronger, more connected Highfield community—one craft at a time.
If you would like to help support us, you can do so by:
- donating
- sharing our content
- shopping with us
- volunteering
If you are interested in finding out more, or having us host some half term holiday activities, you can contact us here.
Check out our TikTok to see us in action.
Together, we’re creating something extraordinary!
