A dedicated group of individuals has quietly stitched together a legacy of compassion, innovation and creativity.
Janet Clarke, a retired home economics teacher who prefers the title “chief fidgeteer,” recalls how her adventure with “fidget aprons” began.
Although Clarke is the one that got it all started, she’s insistent that it’s a team effort.
Inspired, she handcrafted six to seven of them, and word quickly spread. Soon, the community rallied behind her cause, with people dropping off bags of materials at her doorstep.
Janet says she would be nowhere without her group of 10-15 monthly volunteers. Since early 2014, they’ve been crafting fidget aprons for dementia patients, and they’re now approaching a remarkable ten-year milestone. To date, they’ve lovingly assembled approximately 1800 of these therapeutic garments, all without any cost to those who receive them.
Their journey led them to the Queensway in Hensall, where workers there had purchased a fidget apron for around $100 – Janet knew that they could make them better, and cheaper. The spark ignited, and a monthly gathering at the library became their creative hub.
As the group expanded to 10-15 members, they’ve recently found a new home at the Exeter Lions Center. Their influence extended beyond their local community, connecting with numerous community agencies that help the aging population.
Some examples of aprons that they create
The group has even sent some of their aprons internationally, with recipients in the United States and Denmark.
Today, these aprons are valued at around $200 – and while the group doesn’t take any compensation for their creations, they have a priceless impact on those who receive them. Sewing machines donated for the project keep the creativity flowing, and they’re always on the lookout for odd items to incorporate into their designs – from zippers, to grommets, buckles, and more.
Their partnership with Huron County libraries has been pivotal. Locals can assemble fidget apron kits provided by the libraries, with completed aprons then transported back to Exeter by the library’s book transit system.
Clarke says that the aprons provide valuable tactile entertainment for the wearer.
Collaborating with the Huron Perth Alzheimer’s Society, they’ve even developed a checklist to tailor aprons to individual preferences. Janet recalled a heartwarming story of a retired farmer named Bruce, whose daughter connected with the group to create a custom apron featuring red tractors, seeds, and cows.
In a world of mass-produced items, these fidget aprons stand out, each one carrying a touch of individuality. And in the pockets, there’s always a delightful surprise waiting.
So, if you find yourself with old jeans (they’re always in need of denim pockets), discarded fabric, or the bits and bobs from a once beloved sewing room, they’re always in search of new materials for their creations – and they will go to someone that needs it.
Written by: B. Shakyaver