I learned to sew and quilt as an adult. I watched You Tube videos, joined Instagram, participated in a few quilt-alongs, and attended my local guild despite being the youngest person in the room and needing a babysitter to help me get out of the house. Immediately, I found a sense of belonging and community. I have built my stash with the help of many friends, have swapped my creations with complete strangers, and mailed packages to people I know I’ll never meet in person. As technology and resources bring us together, I also felt the push to share beyond the quilting community. Hands-down the most rewarding connection I’ve made is finding outlets for donation. And, quilters are amazingly generous people! Without much fanfare, I see quilts donated immediately following disasters and grieving families. A call for blocks or supplies doesn’t take long to be answered!
Today I want to share links to some ongoing, organized ways to get involved. I’m based in the USA so most of these will be US-based as well. But, make sure to look around your local area for more opportunities! Also, be sure to carefully read each organization’s requirements before diving in.
For Kids
Project Linus: finished blankets. Check local chapter for needs and guidelines.
Quilts Beyond Borders: finished quilts of all sizes
Ryan’s Case for Smiles: sewn pillowcases for kids in hospitals
Stuffed Animals for Emergencies: Hand sewn or bought stuffed animals
For Cancer and Hospital Patients
Knots of Love: knit and crocheted hats
Chemo Caps: knit, crocheted, and sewn hats and scarves
Look Good Feel Better: any type of finished head covering including used hats and scarves
For Veterans
Quilts of Valor: Patriotic-themed quilts. See website for guidelines.
Quilts of Honor: Patriotic-themed quilts. See website for guidelines.
For Victims of Human Trafficking
A21: Finished bedding of all sizes
For the Homeless
Bags to Beds: Use plastic bags to make “plarn” and crochet sleeping mats for the homeless
Hooking for the Homeless: Use plastic bags to make “plarn” and crochet sleeping mats for the homeless
Plarn tutorial here.
For Animals
Snuggles Project: Crocheted, Knit, Sewn, or fleece-tied sleeping mats for animal rescue shelters
SPCA International: Sleeping mats, cloth diapers, toys for rescued animals. Check your local chapter for needs and donation guidelines.
Additional Ideas
Post directly: Freecycle Network, Craigslist, Facebook Relocation Station Group (no sales!)
Look for community fundraisers from 4H, Salvation Army, United Way etc.
Local schools, churches, Girl Scout troops, nursing homes, homeless shelters, prisons