10 May 2025 #PonchoProject @SensorySpace CMI
70 Ponchos, Volunteers, and One Beautiful Day of Giving: The #PonchoProject Magic
Who knew that fabric, scissors, and a bit of laughter could keep winter’s chill at bay? On Saturday, 10 May 2025, a joyful group of 10 volunteers — ranging in age from a sprightly 7-year-old to a few wise-and-wonderful grown-ups — came together to create warmth in more ways than one. The occasion? Volunteer Now’s Service Saturday, a monthly dose of doing good that happens every second Saturday of the month. The mission? To make 70 warm ponchos and scarves for those who need them most this winter.
We call it the #PonchoProject — and what a project it turned out to be!
From the moment the scissors were snipping and the fleece was flying, the vibe was something between a craft party and a sewing bee with heart. The youngest volunteer (yes, the 5-year-old!) took his job very seriously, expertly cutting fringes and sorting scarves by colour and announcing, “This one is perfect for someone who likes blue and superheroes.” We couldn’t argue.
There were stations set up for cutting, folding, tying, and matching scarves to ponchos — all powered our Volunteers.
And the teamwork? Chef’s kiss! Teens taught the little ones how to line up the fabric just right, while the adults shared tips on how to make fleece fringe “look fancy.” There were plenty of jokes, more than a few fabric scraps stuck to shoes and shirts, and even a spontaneous fashion show to test out poncho fit (spoiler alert: everyone looked fabulous).
What made it all even more special was the purpose behind every cut. As South Africa heads into another biting winter, we know that many people are facing the cold without enough warm clothing. These ponchos and scarves will go to shelters, safe spaces, and communities where they’re needed most — each one wrapped in kindness, colour, and care.
There were plenty of “aww” moments too: like when one child carefully folded their finished poncho, hugged it tight, and whispered, “I hope this makes someone feel warm and happy.” Cue the collective heart-melt.
Photos from the day captured all the fun and fuzziness — and yes, the accidental poncho-cape moments too! (Keep an eye out for our gallery — coming soon to your social feed.)
So here’s to our incredible volunteers, to community, creativity, and fleece! The #PonchoProject reminded us that you’re never too young (or too old) to make a difference, and that something as simple as giving your Saturday can wrap someone in love.
See you at the next Volunteer Now Service Saturday — same place, same heart, different project, and hopefully just as many volunteers.