Life FM’s Buddy Blankets bring warmth and hope this winter

Adelaide not-for-profit radio station Life FM has completed its annual Buddy Blanket initiative, where volunteers transform recycled chip packets into waterproof, insulated blankets for people experiencing homelessness.

The goal this year was to make 75 blankets, but the team exceeded expectations, with Life FM pleased to hand over 80 Buddy Blankets to the Arndale Salvation Army.

Life FM says with the help of its amazing community of listeners and supporters, The Life FM Roadies were also able to contribute an extra 250 foil blankets, 40 pairs of gloves, 27 beanies, 12 pairs of socks, 3 scarves and 3 pet mats.

The Buddy Blanket project involved many hands helping over five main workshops, as well as smaller teams working behind the scenes at the Life FM studios over an eight-week period.

Every blanket was lovingly hand-made and included encouraging messages and bible verses to offer hope and comfort to those who are struggling.

Major Gaye Fay from the Salvation Army shared that there has been an increase in people asking for assistance due to homelessness, due to loss of income, rising cost of living pressures or leases not being renewed.

“I think the concept amazes people, particularly when we explain how they are made, and so people are coming in looking for them. I think with the messages of hope on the blankets, they are speaking into people’s lives, and I believe they are making a difference.”

Images supplied.