Since childhood, Anena Irene has earned her living by working on farms and around the houses of people in her village. She has been married twice and has four children total who she supports on her own. As a beneficiary of KK Uganda, Irene does not have to struggle to support her children and has begun saving for their future.
DREAMS FOR THE FUTURE
“I want to be able to take care of my family and meet all of their needs.”
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
“I enjoy garden work and digging.”
MESSAGE TO KK intl.
“Thank you for all that you have done in my life. You have changed my sadness to happiness. Thank you!”
Previous Thank Yous
Mikele
December 27, 2019
I’ve been wearing a beautiful beanie made by you for a few years. I always receive compliments on it. It has held up amazing with regular wash and wear. Thank you for your craftsmanship.
Job A. Seeber
October 26, 2019
Hi, thanks for helping me keep my head warm it can get cold in Oregon!
Annalisa
August 21, 2018
I received a hat you made as a gift for my newborn daughter. It is such a nice hat with cute ears like a bear. This autumn my husband, myself and our daughter will wear the hats together and dress up like little bears. Your artistry has brought much joy to us. Keep.up the good work and blessings to you and your family.
Sarah
December 23, 2017
Anena,
Thank you so much for my beautiful hat. I have had compliments on it already. I hope all of your dreams for the future come true!
Cassidy Gilbert
March 7, 2017
Miss Anena thank you for the beautifully knit hat. It is so warm and cozy! It keeps my ears warm on the cold nights. I have received many compliments on the hat! I appreciate your talent and wish nothing but happiness to your lovely soul. Thank you.
Cassidy
Connie Larson
February 10, 2017
Thank you Anena Irene. May the Lord bless you as you continue to work hard to support your family. I love the hat you made.
Hayley Lowder
January 7, 2017
Anena Irene,
Thank you so much for making such a beautiful hat! I received it as a gift and I love it so much. It's so soft and warm and makes any outfit I wear 100 times better :). I'm so happy to have received such a wonderful gift that was made by such a beautiful and hard working woman. I admire you for all that you do for your family and every time I wear this hat I will think of you. I wish you and your family all of the health and happiness imaginable. Thank you!
Love,
Hayley - NY, USA.
<3
Grace Jho
August 17, 2016
Anena Irene,
thank you so much for your hard work into making this beautiful, soft black beanie that I can now proudly call mine!
you are beautiful!
Tawny Camasta
May 6, 2016
Thank you so much for making my daughter her Hoot beanie. I absolutely adore it!. Great work and god bless you and your family
Callie Smith
January 14, 2016
Anena, I have a forest green beanie that you made, and I wanted you to know that I love it! It's so comfortable, and cute with my red hair. Keep making these wonderful hats!
Marissa
January 5, 2016
Thank you so much for putting time and care into this hat! I have already gotten lots of compliments and I've worn it for one day!
Rick elliott
November 30, 2015
Hi irene,
My name is Rick and i just recently recieved a hat you made. I just want to say i love it so much. You are a beautiful person and much appreciated. Thank you so much for this amazing hat.
Much love and respect,
Rick elliott
Irene Meier
March 7, 2015
Dear Irene,
I bought your lovely hat in New York on our vacation. My name is also Irene – thanks a lot!
I wish you all the best.
Kind regards: Irene
delisha
January 7, 2015
Hi anena thank u so much for all you do. I just bought my hat this morning in Tucson Arizona and I'm happy to know where the procceeds for it go to u and ur wonderful family .
Melissa Weber
December 24, 2014
Dear Anena,
I just received a hat that you made me and I just wanted to say thank you! It's beautiful & every time I wear it I will think of you & your family. I admire you and pray that God would keep you & your family safe & that He will help or provide for your family.
Naomi Renai
December 1, 2014
Anena, Blessings to you.
Thank you for your beautiful gift. I carry the beautiful soft green "Madeline" hat with me everywhere I go. Each time I see it, I say a prayer for you and ask God to bless you and your family. I have had this beautiful hat for 3 years and it is a treasure that I will have for many many more years.
I am so thankful for you.
Merry Christmas,
Naomi
Elizabeth-Lane Green
November 28, 2014
Dearest Anena,
Thank you for the beautiful beanie you have made me. It keeps my head and heart warm knowing that it was made by you. I wish you all the best to you and your children.
Elizabeth-Lane
Lauren
November 4, 2014
Anena,
You are a very beautiful woman. Thank you so much for making a hat that keeps me warm during the winter. Have a lovely day.
-Lauren
Christine Belair
February 28, 2014
HI,
I just bought this hat yesterday. I live in the Northeast (Boston Area) and it it has been freezing here! I have received so many compliments on it already. It gives me the oppurtnunity to tell the story of Krochet Kids. I purchasd this hat in particular because of the selection of colors. I will be helping out a school this weekend and wanted to wear the school colors. It is perfect!
I love the mission and will continue to support Krochet Kids. I have purchased hats for myself before and as gifts for my family. Everybody loves them!
Thank you so Much!
Christine
Erica G
January 26, 2014
Hello Irene.
I just bought your hat yesterday and I love it! It's -24 degrees Celsius here today so I'll need it.
I just learned about Krochet Kids Int. and I think it's a wonderful program that I will continue to support in the future.
Thank you again for the wonderful hat. You have a great talent! I wish you and your family health and happiness for the future!
Erin Heinlein
December 24, 2013
I was given the hat you made for a gift. It is absolutely beautiful! Your work is amazing. I hope you and your children are doing well. Thank you very much! Much love your way.
Debbie Bayle
December 11, 2013
Thank you for the beautiful beanie I bought my husband today. he is going to love it! what beautiful work you do:)
Sarah Phillips
October 24, 2013
Here in Canada the winter gets very cold. The beautiful scarf that you have made will keep me warm during these very cold months,
thank you very much
it is greatly appreciated
Sarah Phillips and Family
Sarah Kerrn
October 12, 2013
Anena Irene,
You are such a blessing!!! I love the hat and that I can connect with you from across the globe. I also love that I can help you care for your family. Your biography was touching; I hope you make more awesome pieces for those here who need a reminder. I pray God may bless you and reveal Himself to you in great ways.
Sarah Kerrn
Bloomington, IL
Marion, IN
Denise Dingus
June 6, 2013
I love wearing hats and just purchased my newest one yesterday. When I was taking the tags off I read the story and had to visit this website I am honrored to wear this one. I love homemade items because to me, they are made from the heart. I will wear this hat proudly and am shopping this site to get a different style. Thank you for your time and talent in creating this hat!!
Denise - NJ, USA
Lacy Saye
March 20, 2013
Anena Irene, thank you for my wonderful hat!! Thank you for being an inspiration. Thank you for your sacrifice of putting family first. Thank you for your courage. Thank you for the joy and happiness you have shared. Blessings and peace to you and your family.
Harold Vilander
March 2, 2013
Just bought one of your hats. It is vey well made. Thanks
Susan Reddan
January 13, 2013
Anena Irene - thank you for my beautiful new hat!!! Soft and warm, perfect for these cold New York winters. I LOVE it! Susan Reddan Monroe, NY
Lydia Cameron
December 25, 2012
Thank you!!!!! On Christmas I got a hat from you. I LOVE it!!! Sincerly,Lydia Cameron Chattaroy,WA
Jessica Kositz
December 25, 2012
My sister gave me a hat you created. It is beautiful and I smile to see your picture and know who made my hat. What a great gift. All the best to you and your family.
FaithElizabethFaddis
November 19, 2012
My good friend Jessica Sunshine bought me a hat for my birthday and it was made by you! I love the hat, it is soft and I love that it is so personal, so neat to see the person who crafted it. Thank you for your work, and I will tell every one I know here in Portland, Oregon about this organization. Have a wonderful life, and thank you for touching mine on my birthday.
With Love,
Faith
Cressa Moody
November 17, 2012
Anena, I love my crocheted Betty hat!!! You are beautiful and your work is beautiful!! Thank you so much! Much love to you and your family :) xoxo
Aimee Crawford
October 10, 2012
Anena Irene, i recently purchased the betty hat in peach and i love it. You did a beautiful job! I am new supporter of krochet kids and I am glad I am, it is a great organization. I can't wait to buy more of these beautiful products.
Aimee Crawford
LeiLani Quiray
September 26, 2012
Hi, Anena!
I just bought your gorgeous crocheted hat from Seeds Marketplace in Costa Mesa, CA, USA. I feel quite pretty in it!
Thank you for the fantastic craftsmanship!
With Much Love,
LeiLani
Shelby Cota
June 13, 2012
Dear Irene,
Today I bought a sunglasses case that you have made and I would like to thank you for your beautiful creation. You made a beautiful product that will forever remind me of you. You are an inspiration to others around you. Stay strong, and stay beautiful.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13
With great love,
Shelby Cota
Livermore, CA, United States
D Heartsong
May 21, 2012
Thank you Anena Irene,
My niece bought me a hat, The Betty, for Christmas, but because of circumstances, I didn't receive it until this week. It's beautiful. Here in Oregon, we still have rainy and chilly days, even in late spring, and I know that I won't have to wait until fall to get a lot of use from my beautiful hat.
Somehow, seeing a photo of the woman who created the hat makes me all that much more grateful. Learning here on the website, about this project makes me want to buy these hats for my own friends too. Maybe I can find others made by you?
Being a mother myself (and a grandmother) I am always happy to learn of ways that women across the globe are able to support their children.
Thanks!!
D Heartsong
Beverly
February 23, 2012
Dearest Anena Irene, My beautiful hat arrived today. I am so proud to own the hat you made! I will think of you always and tell all my family friends about the beautiful person who made my hat.
With affection,
Beverly
Melissa Gallo
February 9, 2012
Dear Anena Irene,
I just got my hat today; the one that you made for me. My eyes filled with tears when I saw your name in it. I will treasure it always. I hope that you will have a wonderful life, and please know that someone half the world away is thinking of you and wearing your hat.
Be well,
Melissa G.
Angie Hoffman
February 7, 2012
Thank you so much for the beautiful hat!!! It is purple which happens to be my favorite color. It is the prettiest hat I have ever had and want you to know what a blessing it is to me!!! God bless ALL that you put your hands to!!
Michelle
January 12, 2012
MANY THANKS FOR THE BEAUTIFUL.HAT! IT IS MY PRIVILEDGE TO WEAR IT! THANKS AGAIN!
AndVillarr
January 10, 2012
Thank you so much for the hat. It was made to perfection. I hope all your dreams come true. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it!
Holly G
December 27, 2011
Anena Irene,
I adore my hat-- it is absolutely gorgeous. Among all the hats I own, I count it as one of the most unique and special. It's perfect for our Texas winters. Thank you so much, not only for the hat, but for your inspiring story. Blessings on you and your family. I know that your future is bright.
Sincerely,
Holly
Diana Lenart
December 24, 2011
Dearest Irene,
Thank you so much for the beautiful hat. I'm the envy of everyone around me this holiday season, everyone keeps asking me who crocheted my hat so perfectly! Knowing that I'm wearing such a work of art made by such wonderful hands makes me so happy everyday. Also, because this hat has such character, I feel as if I'm wearing my best friend on my head! This hat symbolizes so much as well, it gives me hope that you and your family will have a wonderful future full of many blessings and much happiness. I cannot thank you enough for all of this. I admire you so very much for everything you do. You are my hero.
Lots and lots of love,
Diana
Lauren Bergaust
December 5, 2011
Dear Anena Irene,
YOU ARE AMAZING. Thank you so much for the most wonderful hat! I absolutely love it! You are such an inspiring woman that I admire and I am so grateful for what you do every day. This hat is so special to me and it really does mean so much that it comes specifically from you. I can never thank you enough. You are too lovely for words. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
All my love,
Lauren
The Cummins Family
December 5, 2011
Dear Anena Irene, We have so enjoyed the beautiful Twin Fin that you made for us over a year ago - its colors go perfectly here in Seattle with sporty stripes and the pom on top. We love it! Both of my daughters AND my wife wear it! It gets cold and wet this time of year - so the mighty Twin Fin made by YOU is always on the go! This little hat gets so much attention, we know it has been made with expertise, care and LOVE. Our Twin Fin is always in the front room of our house - it is the hat with which we tell the story of Krochet Kids and the amazing ladies of Uganda and (now) Peru. Thanks to you we have a beautiful, important story to tell. We take our friends to the Krochet Kids website and after showing them your hat, we show them your picture and tell them about you. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and for everything you are doing for your family and community - it is your dreams and the dreams of all of the ladies of Krochet Kids that through prayer and hard work are bringing about a new vision for Africa. And that is important. Thanks for being the change - it is brave and never easy. But you are proving that it is real. May God continue to show His abiding mercy and grace to you and your family, and grant you increasing prosperity and happiness. Scott, Kathleen, Mallory & Savannah Cummins
Louiey Aranki
November 28, 2011
Dear Irene,
I have never in my life seen a product so well made. And everytime I wear this hat made by your hands i'm forever grateful for all your hard work. It's a pleasure to have this beautiful product made by your blessed hands.
Sincerely,
Louiey
Kate E. Peters
November 19, 2011
To the lovely Anena Irene,
The crochet work done on my hat is so beautiful. I wear it all the time and get compliments on it often. Thank you so much for making it for me. My ears stay toasty warm and it's perfect for bad hair days. People seem to stare when I wear my hat indoors, but I'm sure they're just admiring your fine work :D. I'm happy to help you in any way possible and I hope you and your family are happy and well.
Love,
Kate
brent southworth
November 15, 2011
Thank you so much for this amazing hat. I'm so happy to hear that my purchase will help you support your family. I read your story and I feel honored being able to be a part of this program. Much love!
Julia Shoots
November 8, 2011
Hello Irene-
Thank you very much for the hat! It is a beautiful piece of art, and you have quite a talent :). I am so glad that i pitched in to support you and your children. You are an inspiring woman and everytime I wear my hat, I will be thinking of you and your family. You have a bright future ahead of you, I know it :) i wish you all the best and your family too.
P.S. You do a much better job than the company stores by far;) thanks again,
Julia
Emma Elliott
November 6, 2011
Anena Irene,
I thank you dearly for the hat that you made. Knowing that you handmade this, with even your name signed inside, is so special to think about! Everytime that I wear it, I will think of you. You have hope that is truly inspiring. I can not imagine what you face daily; you deserve the best. I hope that this organization is really making a difference for you, your friends, and your family. I will most definitely spread the word so that your family gets the support that you all deserve and need. Thank you so much for not only the hat, but the kind message sent along with it.
Much Love,
Emma
NIck Riddle
November 3, 2011
Dear Sweet Lady,
Thank you for your hardwork and talent. I love my new hat and I am thankful that your needs are being met through KKI. I would love to do more and I hope to buy another hat soon. If you have a bible...read John 3:16. The God of the universe loved you so much that he sent Jesus to this earth to die for your sin...as well as the sins of all mankind. He loves you so very much...and because of that love...I love you too. Thanks again...
Nick
Joslyn Dechant
October 31, 2011
Dear Anena Irene,
I received my Bella hat today and I absolutely love it! I have been looking like a hat like this for a long time and it's perfect. I can't wait to wear it this winter. I'll be going on a trip to Italy in December and I plan on taking it with me! Thank you so much for your time and talent. You have truly inspired me and I'll think of you every time I wear my hat.
Much Love,
Joslyn
Franklin, PA
Lindsay Johnson
October 28, 2011
Dear Irene,
I just received my hat today in the mail. Although I did not get the exact hat I ordered, I am glad I received this one instead. You did an amazing job and I am glad that a 14 year old like me could help. I will be sure to tell all of my friends and family about Krochet Kids. My goal was to save all of my money and put the majority towards charity and this was the perfect way. I will be sure to order again sometime soon. Thank you!
Lindsay
Maxwell D'Amico
October 10, 2011
thank you so much for this amazing hat and i am glad that by buying this hat i am helping you and your kids live
G.S.
October 5, 2011
I purchased the lovely hat you made as a gift. I can not tell you how excited I was to look at the hat to find out who had made it. Reading your story fills my heart with joy. I was also raised by a single mother and watched her struggle to provide for me. I'm so happy that my purchase can, in some small way, help you provide a better life for your children. May you all be blessed!
Tatiana G
September 28, 2011
Anena Irene, Thank you for my beautiful white and blue waldo hat!! I love it. I love the inspiration behind these hats and I am so fortunate to have something so beautiful, handmade. May God bless you and your family!!
Sue K.
September 27, 2011
Hello Anena Irene!
I purchased The Barney (Bark colored) and I wanted to say thank you very much for your beautiful work! I will enjoy wearing this in the cold and snow coming in a few months. Please take care of yourself and your family and be well my friend.
Lauren A Kaufman
September 24, 2011
Hi there, I purchased a brown knit beanie as a gift for my brother. I know he will love it and I just wanted to say thank you for making such a nice quality hat. I truly hope that the money I used to purchase the hat will help you fulfill your dreams. Thank you!
Thomas Rehberg
September 21, 2011
Anena Irene,
This hat is truly a work of art and i appreciate that you made it and signed it!!...I much rather buy a hat from someone that personally made it instead of a store...I hope the best for you and your family in the future and I will continue to buy KKU products because of the exceptional hat you have made me
Thank you!!
Tommy
Laura Corcoran
September 19, 2011
Anena Irene,
Today I wore the hat you made on my first day of college. So many people said they loved my hat and I was able to share your story. You are one very strong woman. You have successfully supported your family. I am continually praying for you and your family. My hope is that your kids will be able to attend college like I am today. I believe God really wants to provide a college education for your family. So, I will be specifically praying that God provides a way to see your kids attend college. Know that you are loved, valued, and never alone. You are loved by Jesus and also by me. Thank you so much for the beautiful hat.
Love,
Laura
Seattle, WA
Michael Gregory
September 15, 2011
Hi Irene--I just received the beautiful hat you made. I love it and will treasure it. It's just what I need for the very cold winters we have in New York. You're awesome.
Thanks!!
Mike
New York, NY
Bobbi Ross
September 3, 2011
Hi Irene!!
I received my Krochet Kids hat today. I got a cream bella and I was extremely excited to see who had made such a beautiful hat for me! You are an inspiration to me and I will always think of you and your story when I wear my hat! It's amazing that someone that lives so far away that doesn't even know me made an incredible hat for me. You are doing such a great thing for people and you deserve a great life. I also thank KrochetKids for allowing me to help you! God loves you and is definatly watching over you and may he give you a beautiful life, you deserve it!
God Bless You,
Bobbi Ross
Sun Prairie, WI
Olivia Ray
August 29, 2011
HI Irene! I find it amazing that I'm able to write back to you, who is all the way in Africa, and thank you for your work. I'm thankful for this organization that they're giving you this opportunity to support you and your family. So thank you for my hat, it was beautifully made and I will always remember your story! You are an inspiration to me and my whole family
Love,
Olivia
Mandi
August 27, 2011
Everytime I put on your hat, I'm reminded of what Determination, Hard Work, Drive and many, many more feels like. It reminds to Never Give Up on my Aspirations. You are a True Inspiration!
Wishing you nothing, but the Absolute BEST!
-Mandi
Elizabeth
August 11, 2011
Dear Irene,
I got my hat today, and I love it! Thank you so much! It is so beautiful, just like you!
every time i wear the hat, I will always think of you and your story! I hope you have a great day ♥
Love,
Elizabeth
Dallas, TX
CJ smith
July 24, 2011
Dear Irene...
i'm so blessed to be able to help you in any way that i can... i bought a hat, and i love it, its very beautiful, just like you, Jesus loves you Miss Irene. I just want to say always have hope and faith and put all your trust in God, you and the many others alike will be in my prayers.
sincerely,
Lisa Kwon
April 30, 2011
Hello Irene,
Thank you for making such a beautiful hat. It will remind me of you and your story whenever I wear it. May God bless you and your family with much happiness and joy.
Many Thanks,
Lisa
julie
March 18, 2011
Dear Irene,
Thank you for this wonderful creation, It is an amazing hat that I can wear with anything and it is lovely to know that by buying this hat I am helping you live. I hope that you continue to create and live a long and happy life.
Lauren
Austin, TX
Melissa Salazar
December 26, 2010
Dear Irene, My brother purchased the Bella hat for me for Christmas. It is one of my very favorite gifts. Thank you for your beautiful craftmanship. It is Stunning!!! May God bless you and your children. I will think of you whenever I wear my beautiful hat.
Melissa,
Orange County, California, USA
Charles
November 26, 2010
Hi Irene,
Thanks for allowing me to purchase and enjoy the wonderful hat you created. It is a lovely product, and it is especially heart-warming to know that my purchase is directly helping you to care for your family. I read your biography and I am impressed with your background. I am looking to further supporting you and KKi as you continue to produce great products and improve lives.
Warm Regards,
Charles Smith
San Diego, CA