National Deafblind Awareness Month
Why do we Yarn Bomb?
It’s been 10 years since the Senate of Canada proclaimed June as National Deafblind Awareness Month!
National Deafblind Awareness Month creates an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the contributions of Canadians who are deafblind. Each year, Canadians who are deafblind, service providers and supporters come together to “make a wave from coast to coast” to raise awareness through various activities and events.
This June, DeafBlind Ontario Services is proud to join the global initiative #CreateAndConnect, led by Deafblind International. This campaign invites communities to engage in creative expression that fosters awareness, joy, and connection. Our chosen form of expression? Yarn bombing – a vibrant, tactile art form that symbolizes unity and the diverse talents of people who are deafblind.
Yarn bombing involves wrapping public spaces with knitted or crocheted yarn creations. These installations are not only visually striking but also serve as a metaphor for connection – between individuals, communities, and the broader
world.
Each installation by DeafBlind Ontario Services is made up of hand crafted pieces created by people supported by DeafBlind Ontario Services, intervenors, friends and family, local knitting clubs, and community members from across the province.
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Meet Steven
Steven has been supported by DeafBlind Ontario Services since 1997. His journey with us began in a shared home with two roommates, but today, he lives independently in his own apartment – a milestone that reflects both his personal growth and the impact of our Supported Independent Living (SIL) program.
Steven’s life is rich with meaningful experiences. His intervenors help him with everyday tasks like grocery shopping and visiting the mall, to swimming and attending local events. He also enjoys going for drives around the city and dining out at restaurants.
With the help of his intervenors, Steven has played an active role in setting up yarn bombing displays in his community.
“It’s important for people to learn more about DeafBlind Ontario Services and the deafblind community,” says Steven. “Awareness directly helps people who are deafblind.”
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Join our Yarn Bombing Crew
We’re taking Yarn Bombing even bigger next year!
Whether you’re a crafter who wants to create pieces for our displays, you’ve got some time to help us set up or you’ve got an idea where we can Yarn Bomb, we want to hear from you!
Join our Yarn Bombing Crew and we’ll send you information on how you can participate in 2026!