Tashkent Charity Supports Premature Infants Initiative

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Around 70 residents of Tashkent took part in a charity initiative titled “Knit Life” held in the city’s Central Park, marking International Public Knitting Day.

During the event, participants produced dozens of therapeutic toys and warm clothing items for premature newborns.

The initiative was supported by the “28 loops” club and the biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. The knitted items are intended for transfer to perinatal centers after disinfection.

Organizers and specialists said that around 13 million children are born prematurely worldwide each year.

Complications related to prematurity remain one of the leading causes of death among children under five.

A particular risk for premature infants is respiratory syncytial viral infection (RSV), which can cause severe respiratory complications and lead to hospitalization.

Volunteers from the “28 loops” club regularly knit and donate items made of 100% wool and cotton to medical institutions. These items help premature babies retain warmth and support their development.

According to club coordinator Elena Semerzhidi, the organization has supported many families over nine years through volunteer initiatives.

During the event, any interested participant could join knitting activities after a short briefing. Materials and volunteer assistance were provided.

Speeches and discussions with medical specialists were also held, focusing on the risks of premature birth and methods of caring for premature infants.

Medical representatives emphasized the importance of preventing RSV infection and informing parents about potential complications.

They noted that premature babies are particularly vulnerable to viral diseases due to the immaturity of their respiratory and immune systems.

By the end of the event, participants had knitted dozens of sets of clothing, socks, hats, and toys. All items will be delivered to perinatal centers after sanitary processing.