The Krafty Kronys have started a new chapter in their goal of fundraising for the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors (TAPS). With a new home in the basement of Creston Card and Stationery, the group is set to keep on knitting, sewing and crafting in a permanent location, and celebrated with a reception for owner Mike Poznikoff and staff on Thursday.
The donation of the space by owner Poznikoff is the continuation of a family tradition with TAPS — when his late father, John, owned Pharmasave, he donated prizes for games, and when his brother, Steve, co-owned the business, he helped establish a monthly health check program at TAPS.
“I couldn’t believe how wonderful the community is,” said Jill Fehr, the Krafty Kronys spokesperson and a former TAPS co-ordinator, who moved to the valley from Vancouver.
One hundred per cent of the funds raised by the Kronys goes to TAPS, now run by Valley Community Services after the province stopped funding it in 2005. They started long before that, though, with a group coming to visit Fehr at TAPS in 1996.
“These four Creston angels came in and talked about fundraising. … Well, did they ever mean it!” said Fehr.
Over the years, funds from the Kronys have purchased coolers and a gas line and exhaust system for the stove at the former TAPS location on 21st Avenue South, as well as one-and-a-half buses.
For many years, most of the Kronys work was done at the home of Patt Robicheau — one of the four who approached Fehr in 1996 — who died two years ago.
Giving the Kronys a new home was an easy decision for Poznikoff, who expanded his store’s staff room to accommodate them. Having them there furthers his mission to “provide a variety of products for the creative soul.” Poznikoff offers far more than just stationery, with a focus on creativity and playability.
And their presence allows Poznikoff to carry on that family legacy by giving back to the community.
“For me it’s not just about selling product, but it’s nice to have a connection to people,” he said.