Guest Blog Entry by Elaine Cohen (my mom)

The Eleanor London Cote Saint-Luc Public Library serves as a vital cultural centre for residents of all ages and interests. Every Thursday afternoon members of the Côte Saint-Luc Knitting Club gather in the Shell Room to knit garments for non-profit organizations serving the needy.

Knitting club animator Mary Lou Magee (centre) presents hats and other items to Chez Doris case worker Felicia Katsouros (left) and Marie-Denise, a member of the organization.

The group was initiated  in August 2013 by volunteer Mary Lou Magee, an expert knitter with an inherent talent for leadership. A long-time Côte Saint-Luc resident, Magee inspires other proficient knitters as well as novices. The participants’ ages, cultural backgrounds and lifestyles vary, yet they share so much in common and camaraderie thrives. Under Magee’s guidance, the group knitted over 70 hats and other items for Chez Doris, an organization that lends support to women in dire need. It was timed to deliver the order just before Christmas.

“Next year we intend to choose another charitable organization,” said Magee, a recently retired nurse, who personally wrapped, delivered and presented the items to Chez Doris.  The group decides on what to make and which group would benefit from it the most. Then they shop for materials and spend weeks preparing the items.