Crafting change: How one knitter is supporting mental health

For Moncton-based Manon Drolet, mental health has always been an important topic. It’s the reason why she chose Just Us as her charity of choice for her knitting fundraiser.

Manon has been knitting for years, and recently began creating patterns that other knitters can buy on site called Ravelry.

It’s common for many knitters on the site to donate sales from products sold in their first week, and Manon wanted to do the same.

“I wanted to raise awareness about mental health and when I found out about Just Us, who was offering free and low-cost counselling to people, I thought this is the perfect organization.”

From September 21-28, 2024, the first week she launched her new pattern for mittens, she donated 100% of the proceeds to Just Us. Her friends joined in the effort, talking about the project on their podcast. And with a strong community of knitters behind her, things started to take off. In total, she sold 132 patterns, raising $660.

The pattern release was supported by her test knitters and her large Instagram community, who helped spread the word by sharing pictures of their mittens.

“The day we released it, some of my friends talked about it, and it really took off.” Priced at $5 Canadian, the pattern allowed knitters from all over the world to contribute to a meaningful cause.

“Mental health affects everyone,” Manon shared. Having dealt with depression herself, she feels strongly about the importance of open communication, especially after witnessing her 26-year-old daughter’s advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.

“It’s really important for me to create an open space where my kids can talk to me about anything. When my daughter came out in college, I didn’t want her to feel like she had to hide it. People need to talk about it.”

Though Manon has only created four patterns so far, her passion for knitting and raising awareness shows no signs of slowing down. Combining creativity with a cause, she has found a way to give back while doing something she loves.

Learn more about how you can support Just Us in providing free and low-cost counselling to those in need across New Brunswick.