Rug Hooking - Amherst, NS

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Introduction to Rug Hooking on the 19th of November 2024 is now open. The application deadline is 28 October 2024.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Deanne Fitzpatrick Studio staff at www.hookingrugs.com will be collaborating with Soldier On to host an introduction to Rug hooking, a traditional craft where strips of fabric or yarn are pulled through a backing material (usually burlap, linen, or a similar fabric) using a specialized tool called a rug hook. The loops of fabric or yarn create a pile that makes up the rug's surface. This method can be used to create everything from small mats to large area rugs, and it’s valued for its durability and the rich texture it provides.

All materials needed for the project during the session will be supplied, a pattern and each person will have a hook, a 6 by 6 inch kit to complete, and a hoop to work on and take home after the session.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Amherst and surrounding area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

*NOTE FOR SERVING MEMBERS: Amidst current financial limitations and a federal directive to reduce defense spending within DND by a Billion dollars, serving members' participation in Soldier On events and activities will now be limited to within their own local    region (i.e., selection for event outside of where they reside is unlikely). As a result, serving members are advised that participation beyond their local area is likely to be denied, as Soldier On cannot sponsor any temporary duty status for serving members in order to align with government guidelines for expenditure reduction. Unfortunately, serving members are not authorized to participate in Soldier On activities and events while on leave.*

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

19 November 2024 from 0900 -1200 at 33 Church Street, Amherst , Nova Scotia.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that meals and transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 3 hours of light paced activities for 3 hours in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. 

Some degree of visual acuity is needed to work with fine detail, hand eye coordination is also imperative.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.
   
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PREVENTION:
Soldier On, PSP and CAF TG aim to provide a safe environment for all participants and staff. To ensure everyone’s safety, applicants understand that they should aim to adopt personal practices focused on communicable disease prevention such as health awareness, staying home when sick and regular hand cleaning to help prevent the spread.