QuiltsforKids.Org

Last year I had the opportunity to make a memory quilt for a little boy named Bennett - a second grader in Cape Cod who had been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, and at the time was  undergoing inpatient treatment. He lives on the opposite side of the country from me, but I was introduced to his story from Amy, a mom of one of his classmates. She found my Etsy shop where I had a listing for a memory quilt. She wanted to have one made for him with notes and well wishes from his classmates and teachers. I was so honored to have the opportunity to make this for him.

Bennett's class had an ongoing project where they were the crew of a ship. They called themselves The Kehoe Crew. And so, a theme was born. Amy had found some adorable fabric with whales on it - Urban Zoologie by Anne Kelle for Robert Kaufman - which she wanted included in the quilt. So, we worked together, and after everything came together, I was so pleased with how it turned out. She was too! :)

And that is how I became aware of Quilts for Kids. Amy had sent me info from the website regarding requirements when making quilts for kids in hospitals. What a wonderful organization!! They bring people together in a way that can give much needed comfort to little ones and their families during such a difficult time. The handmade quilts are something tangible that these families and little ones can hold on to and look at everyday. Soft, cuddley, and brightly colored - sure to bring comfort and smiles.

So, this is my next project. Sending a quilt off to Quilts for Kids. Not sure if I will make a new one, or send one I already have made and listed in my shop. Maybe both. I see multiple donations in my future. Hopefully some of you can find time to put together something and send it off too. For quilt requirements (such as size, fabrics, quilting), patterns and info visit their website quiltsforkids.org. You can also make a donation of money (for fabric/kits) or even your scrap fabric.

Happy Sewing!

Amy