This week’s craftivist idea is a special one. In reading some literature about the project, I was especially touched because not only does it allow for people to either make blanket squares or donate supplies, but because some of the same kids benefitting from the project also contribute. It’s a project run by the Jewish Board of Family & Children’s Services, Division of Volunteer Services. When I read that some of the children knit and/or crochet squares for other’s kids blankets, I knew where some of my acrylic yarn that I don’t need will be heading!
The project involves making blanket squares (or sending some of you extra yarn and crochet hooks/knitting needles or both!) for children who are leaving a residential treatment center in New York. You can donate as many squares as you would like, and the blankets are stitched together using different donations, allowing for a greater multitude of colors and patterns.
From the Center’s literature:
“The children in our programs have had lives filled with trauma, violence, poverty and other stressors. The purpose of giving a Sanctuary blanket to each child who leaves our residential programs is to help them transition from one home to the next. We hope the blanket will remind them of the good things they experienced here, and to provide comfort in their new life. We need your help to make this possible!
If you are interested in making blanket squares by yourself, starting a group with friends or co-workers, or learning more about our project, please contact Shannon Hughes, LMSW, Volunteer Coordinator for JBFCS, shughes AT jbgcs DOT org. We will send you all the information about patterns and needle sizes.
The Sanctuary Blanket Project pieces together squares made from different individuals to make a whole blanket, rich in color and texture. Each square is symbolic of the different people who have come together to help the youngster heal from his or her traumas, and to guide them into a safe and healthy future. Hopefully, the blanket will also provide some warmth along the way!
The Division of Volunteer Services and the Sanctuary Project at JBFCS have begun a project to provide all children who leave the residential treatment programs with a hand-made blanket.”