LEWISTON – “After my triple bypass surgery three years ago, I needed a way to relax between short spells of more vigorous activity,” said Cecile Lauze.

“I tire easily and find that knitting as I watch television is a very relaxing pastime for me.” Thus explains a labor of love that actually began in 1995 when Lauze learned that the Catholic Charities Maine SEARCH program needed mittens for low-income people of all ages when cold Maine winters approached.

She has been keeping track of each pair she knits and surpassed 1,725 pairs on Labor Day. Lauze uses yarn that is donated to the SEARCH program and is skillful in using odds and ends of yarn to make colorful mittens of all sizes.

Lauze was born and raised in Lewiston and turns 84 on Oct. 10. She has been a lifelong member of Saints Peter and Paul Parish and enjoys playing cards every week with friends.

Arthritis in both arms has affected her ability to do some things, so she is grateful that knitting is still possible.

“We are truly indebted to Cecile for her faithful contribution of knitted items throughout the past eight years,” said Phoebe Lowell, SEARCH program director.

“Because of Cecile and our other volunteer knitters, we have kept people warm by giving knitted goods to the L/A Good Shepherd Food Pantry, Hope Haven Gospel Mission, St. Martin de Porres Residence for the homeless, Abused Women’s Advocacy Project, the Lisbon Giving Tree, New Beginnings, Norwich House, Head Start and others,” she said.

SEARCH stands for Seek Elderly Alone, Renew Courage and Hope. Its mission is to enable frail, vulnerable elderly and those with disabilities to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible.

Financial donations from individuals, businesses and civic groups are encouraged and may be sent to SEARCH, 15 Westminster St., Lewiston, ME 04240.

SEARCH is looking for persons of all ages and religious denominations who would like to be a friendly telephone caller, visitor or part-time helper for an elderly person in Androscoggin County. For more information on becoming a volunteer or to refer someone as a client, call 784-0157.

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