‘Happy Hookers’ crochet group awarded £500 from the Asda Foundation

A Coleraine crochet group is set for even more fun thanks to a £500 grant from the Asda Foundation.

‘Happy Hookers’ – part of the Cross Glebe Community Association – will use the grant, part of the Asda Foundation’s Better Together Fund, for games and supplies to enrich the enjoyment of its members.

After early days as a small get-together for people interested in crochet and knitting, Happy Hookers has grown to play an important role in combatting isolation and loneliness in the community, with funds from weekly raffles contributing to annual outings and supplies.

Nicole McFadden, Community and Customer Champion at Asda Coleraine, said: “As well as all that, these generous, big-hearted members of the community do a huge amount for good causes in the area, from knitting bags for cancer patients to carry their syringe drivers during treatments, to crocheting blankets for local nursing homes and babies in intensive care.

“They do all this and more, building connections in the community and having fun along the way. It was my pleasure to join them and present this cheque from the Asda Foundation – they’re a perfect example of what the ‘Better Together Fund’ is all about.”

Catherine Lee Calvin, Secretary of the Community Association, said: “This fantastic funding will be used to purchase games and activities for the group, giving everyone even more opportunities to have fun, socialise and enjoy time together.

“A huge thank you to Nicole and the Asda Foundation for supporting our group and helping us make our sessions even more enjoyable.”

The Better Together Fund is a grant program run by the Asda Foundation designed to combat loneliness, reduce social isolation, and build stronger bonds within local communities.