Earlier I had posted the 4 panels I sent to California for a special quilt. Yesterday, I saw a picture of the completed quilt.

The lovely lady holding this quilt is the teacher who put this project together. Everyone was so happy, and everyone was crying over the love shown to this little girl by complete strangers. It’s a great feeling knowing that something so simple as a piece of needlework can make someone so happy…

Which brings me to today’s topic — Charity Stitching. We all have our own reasons for stitching these pieces. With the quilt above, I had the time, the materials, and the desire. When her teacher asked in a Facebook group for volunteers, I was happy to be able to help. I have a lot of Precious Moments designs here, so it was just a matter of picking out ones that fit the theme and size requirements. These panels weren’t stitched for money or for the thanks. They were stitched to show that we can care about others, even if we don’t know them. It’s really all about people helping each other.

My  go-to group is Canada Stitches. This mainly-Canadian group of stitchers creates unique and totally handmade quilts for First Responders dealing with PTSD/PTSI, or who have been injured in the line of duty. We also create awesome quilts for children dealing with life-long medical/mental issues. Very few groups out there help Canadians. I am so happy and proud to be with this group and know that I do make a difference.

Love Quilts also makes quilts for children facing challenges. They have active chapters in the US; UK, and Brazil.

The second group I love stitching for is Cole’s Quilts.  This is a much smaller, more focused group that makes quilts for children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. This devastating disease usually strikes infants, and is fatal about 80% of the time. It’s heartbreaking for the families. The quilts are made with the child’s favorite characters and colors. Even if the child has passed away, the quilts are a precious keepsake of that young life.

Another great group is the Linus Project. They are all over the US, Canada, and the UK. They deliver brand new handmade security blankets to children in need. If these don’t suit you, there are so many other ways to help. Many many churches work to help the elderly and children with bits of handmade comfort and are excellent resources. A simple Google search will also turn up a lot of ideas.

The whole point is to take a short time out to help another person through a time of stress. You have no idea how much it will add to your pleasure by simply doing so.

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I will have more updates to the shops this week as I am just finishing off a group of magnets on linen.

Until then, Happy Stitching!!