Written by Cheryl Lee, a volunteer at JC@BA

This year at Jesus Club (JC) at Bukit Arang, we’ve been more intentional about looking out for our caregivers – from assigning caregiver buddies to chat with them during JC sessions, to organising more frequent and varied caregiver events to build community amongst our caregivers for mutual support, sharing and encouragement.

In May, we held a hands-on Sewing Skills Workshop, facilitated by Elisa, founder of Will & Well, an inclusive fashion label. It was very well-received, with almost 20 caregivers (and a few members!) signing up and participating in the workshop.

Many were keen to pick up or refresh their sewing skills. Elisa taught us the basics of how to set up and use an electric sewing machine, and she gave us step-by-step instructions on how to make our very own tote bags!

It was a good time of bonding between the Jesus Club volunteers and the caregivers, as we (often times) struggled together and helped each other out with the unfamiliar machine and sewing techniques, yet slowly saw the final product coming together. 💞

Personally, I have zero sewing skills but I was clinging to Elisa’s every instruction as I attempted to help my group member’s mum with her tote bag. We had a fun time figuring things out together, and I also managed to ask her some questions about herself, her daughter and the family. Her daughter is non-verbal, so it was helpful to get a little more info about how she communicates and what she likes!

It was a precious time of bonding, and we hope it will lead to better relationships and community being built!