Giving Back

I have a lot on my mind these days. Some of it craft related, some of it kid related, some of it life in general, making ends meet---age old story I think we all know. Usually when I'm troubled I find myself crocheting a lot of items for people I don't know—Charity work. I do so dislike that word---Charity. I prefer to think of it as giving back to the community at large. A way to repay that sweet old man who helped me with getting my groceries in the car, in the pouring rain; I didn't ask, he just helped me. It's not even about me personally….There's a kid in my hometown who goes to visit many of our elderly just because he wants to. Or how about the work Habitat for Humanity does? Neither of those situations have a direct impact on my life, but they do touch my heart. So in return, I make baby booties and hats for newborns or preemies in the county hospital. I send them along anonymously, no need for anyone to know. It's just something to do. Eases my mind, helps mend whatever is broken at the moment and gives me some perspective about my worries and woes. I'm not alone, everyone has something to deal with, their own cross to bear. Crocheting is my therapy.

So why bring this up here? Simply because I was really surprised to learn how many people are completely unaware of community organizations in need of handmade gift items. A pair of preemie baby booties takes about 30 minutes from start to finish for me to make. They are small…less than two inches in length, tiny little ribbons ties on them, I use a small hook and soft cotton crochet thread most of time. To most folks they're just a pair of baby booties, but to the mother of a child fighting for its life, it's the comfort of knowing someone is thinking about her child and praying with her.


Okay in fairness, 30 minutes is pretty darn quick, times may vary….I've been crocheting since I was six and I'm 46 now, so I've got 40 years of honing my hooking technique behind me!—Doesn't change the mission though…Anyone can help! Maybe making baby clothing isn't your thing. There are many other organizations, everything from teddy bears to animals….Prayer shawls are made and given to people who are terminally ill or going through some sort of personal crisis. The gift of the shawl reminds the recipient someone is praying for them, and encourages them to pray as well. Nursing homes are often looking for lapghans or slippers for their residents. Heartmade Blessings puts together donated squares to make afghans for people facing disaster or illness; they also make baby items and a number of different pins meant to serve as a reminder that no one is alone. One organization makes butterflies and angels for hope. Caps To The Capitol is sponsored by Red Heart yarn. The company wants crocheters and knitters alike to make baby caps to be sent all over the world---In a number of third world countries, many babies don't live through their first month of life, some don't make it through the first 24 hours---something as simple a cap for warmth can make a life or death difference for a child.

This is not about me and what I do….I tend to try to live by the scripture of doing good for others in secret…However to the avid crocheter and knitter. To the beginner and to the once in a while crafter, I ask that you consider this: Others will benefit from your skill…no matter what level you're at. Free patterns are all over the internet—A few places like Wal-Mart have been known to donate the yarn if you have letter head from the organization you're making items for. You don't have to invest in expensive yarn in order to make a gift that will lift spirits and provide comfort to those in need. You can make a difference by spreading hope one stitch at a time.


PS....
A few more resources :
Crocheters Guild Of America

Charity Crafting

More Free Patterns