Since it formed in 2002, the Nanaimo chapter of Blankets for Canada has made and distributed more than 3,500 blankets to the homeless and others in need of warmth.
The organization is once again looking for volunteers to knit or crochet blankets for groups such as the 7-10 Club, Nanaimo Women’s Centre, Clearview Centre, Loaves and Fishes community food bank, Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul Christmas hamper program.
Volunteers knit or crochet 20 cm squares and 48 of these are sewn or crocheted together into a colourful blanket.
For those who can’t knit or crochet, the organization also accepts donations of acrylic yarn.
Blankets for Canada was established in Alberta in 1998 and became a registered charity in 1999. There are chapters all across Canada with hundreds of volunteers of all ages, from school children to seniors.
The Nanaimo chapter was set up by Karien Bahlmann in June 2002 after she saw Michaels Arts and Crafts Store advertising for squares for a campaign they were running. Since then, volunteers have been recruited to make squares, assemble blankets and deliver them.
To help, or for more information, please visit Michaels Arts and Crafts store, 6677 Mary Ellen Dr., on Oct. 27, 1-3 p.m.
Squares, finished blankets or yarn can be dropped off at the Michaels store or at Volunteer Nanaimo at any time of year.
To make a donation of yarn or finished blankets, please call 250-758-5363.