A local advocate living with deafblindness is bringing a grassroots awareness campaign into the community with the first annual Deafblind Awareness Walk planned for June 22.
The event is being organized by Christa, who is supported by Community Living Wallaceburg and has participated in the global deafblind awareness initiative known as “Yarn Bombing” since 2021. What began with decorating trees and bushes in her own yard with knitted displays has grown into a broader effort to raise awareness throughout Wallaceburg.
According to Community Living Wallaceburg, Christa later expanded the initiative to other prominent locations in the community and is now preparing to host her first public Yarn Bombing and Awareness Walk.
“Watching Christa grow this initiative from her front yard to public parks, and now to a community walk has been an incredible journey to be a part of,” said Jennifer Bonner, a Direct Support Professional with Community Living Wallaceburg. “She has always found ways to use her creativity to achieve goals, promote awareness and break down communication barriers.”
Organizers say the knitted displays help illustrate the experiences of people living with deafblindness by providing textures that can be touched and seen, reflecting how individuals with dual sensory impairment interact with the world.
Community members are invited to gather at Civic Square Park on June 22 at 10 a.m. to help decorate the area before walking along Dufferin Avenue to the Community Living Wallaceburg office, where participants will yarn bomb the garden. Light refreshments will be served following the walk.
Residents are also encouraged to create and bring their own knitted or crocheted pieces for display.
Community Living Wallaceburg said it co-creates, designs and delivers supports that help people overcome barriers and live the lives they choose.
