Project Linus, Tucson Chapter

May 2012


	BLANKET: Guidelines
	BLANKET: Drop-Off Places
	BLANKET: Patterns
	DONATE, VOLUNTEER or JOIN a Group
	FALLEN HEROES PROGRAM
	PHOTOS: 2012 (Jan. 1 - Mar. 14)
	PHOTOS: 2012 (Mar. 16 - Mar. 31)

ABOUT PROJECT LINUS:

A HUGE THANK YOU to each of our wonderful volunteers!

Together, you made 5,008 blankets for Project Linus' Tucson Chapter during 2011.

This was 134 fewer blankets than in 2010, and yet our requests from recipient facilities are increasing. We appreciate each blanket that you have made! Please spread the word to your friends, or better yet, bring a friend to our monthly meeting to learn about Project Linus.

Since the inception of this chapter through December 2011, 36,692 blankets were delivered to children in the Tucson area.

When the chapter began in Spring 1999, our goal was to ultimately reach 1,000 children.

Instead, look what's happened!!!! With the help of over 300 women, men and children, who regularly make and contribute blankets, Project Linus Tucson has given the gift of a security to many thousands of children.

There are nearly 400 Project Linus chapters covering all 50 states. Together, volunteers in these chapters have given over 4 million security blankets to children!

NATIONAL ORGANIZATION'S MISSION STATEMENT:

Project Linus is a volunteer non-profit national organization with a twofold mission.

To provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need, through the gifts of new hand made blankets and afghans that are lovingly created by volunteer "blanketeers".
To provide a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals and groups in local communities, for the benefit of children.

NATIONAL ORGANIZATION'S HISTORY:

Project Linus began in Denver on Christmas Eve 1995 when an article appeared in Parade Magazine entitled, "Joy to the World". Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Eddie Adams, it featured a petite downy-haired little girl who had been undergoing intensive chemotherapy. The article stated that her security blanket helped her get through treatments.

Karen Loucks read the article and decided to provide homemade security blankets to Denver's Rocky Mountain Children's Cancer Center.

The idea grew, Charles Schultz's family gave permission to use the blanket-toting Linus as the logo, and Project Linus was born.

Click Here for Full Calendar

Friday May 18
• MONTHLY MEETING
9:30am-12:00pm Volunteers bring in blankets collected from drop-off locations, sort by sizes, and deliver to recipient facilities for distribution to children. Short business meeting.

Members List:

Coordinator:
Rene Lassise 574-2103
Asst. Coord.:
Dale Shoots 742-3801
NW Area:
Vicki Colovito 219-8283
SE Area:
Kate Havens 870-2603
SW Area:
Marge Koeller 578-7115
GREEN VALLEY:
Lois Westervelt 399-1411
FALLEN HEROES:
Marge Koeller 578-7115
KIDS HELPING KIDS:
Dale Shoots 742-3801

Links Section

	KVOA-TV@DEC.2011 MEETING
	PROJECT LINUS, NATIONAL ORGANIZATION
	FLEECE BLANKET EDGES; 5 VIDEOS
	THE CRAYON BOX
	DISAPPEARING NINE PATCH QUILT
	PRAIRIE POINTS ON QUILTS
	10 MINUTE BLOCK QUILT
	QUILTMAKER'S PROJECT LINUS QUILTS
	JUST FOR FUN BLANKET PATTERNS

Project Linus, Tucson Chapter

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
New volunteers are always welcome to attend monthly meetings and learn more about Project Linus!
Volunteers bring blankets from our drop-off points, and place them on tables. Other volunteers gather the blankets in sizes appropriate to the needs of the various recipient facilities and bag them for delivery. A short business meeting is held. On three occasions throughout the year, volunteers bring a sack lunch and stay until about 3:00 to participate in a Work Party. (For the date of the next Work Party see 2012 calendar in the lower portion of the lefthand column.)
Our monthly meetings are held on the campus of Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2450 E. Ft. Lowell (SW corner of Ft. Lowell Rd. & Tucson Blvd.). Enter from Ft. Lowell and park in the lot at the south end of the campus; we meet in the Multi-purpose room,which is in the building on the west side of that parking lot. Meetings are on the third Friday of each month, except in the month of June. See our CALENDAR (in the lower lefthand column) for meeting and event dates.
NEW LETTERS TO LINUS:
All of the Letters are from 2012; the latest batch was added on May 2. In two of those letters the person mentioned that the blanket received contained a design with that person's favorite thing -- in one case butterflies, in the other, kittens. It is uncanny, but we so often hear that the child/recipient's blanket was in their favorite color, or had their favorite design, or reminded them of a precious time in their life. What a wonderful coincidence!!!

LINKS:
KVOA-TV filmed and conducted interviews at our December 2011 Meeting. Click on the link to KVOA-TV's program in the lower lefthand column of this page. Other links available are to our National Organization's web site and various sites that are sources for patterns and for blanket-making techniques.
While you're in our LINKS section, why not visit Project Linus' national web site too! Find out more about the national organization, and check out their crocheted, knitted, fleece and quilted blanket patterns.

URGENT NEED FOR BABY BLANKETS! We have new recipient facilities that need baby-sized blankets. In order to meet their needs we will need another 40-50 baby blankets per month at minimum! If each of you can find it in your hearts (and hands!) to knit, crochet, or sew just one or two more blankets, it will help us meet the needs of these new facilities.
Of course our need has not diminished for preemie, child and teen blankets either. Thank you to each of our Southern Arizona "blanketeers" for the love and care you put into each security blanket.

WE ALWAYS NEED DONATIONS OF NEW, CLEAN, WASHABLE, CHILD-FRIENDLY FABRICS, BATTING, YARN and other supplies that volunteers can use to make blankets for children ages 0-18. Please contact one of the Members listed in the lower portion of the lefthand column if you have donations or would like more information.

PROJECT LINUS BLANKETS MUST BE HOMEMADE AND NEW (not even gently used), made of clean washable materials that are age-appropriate for the size of the blanket. Because many children have allergies or weakened immune systems, blankets cannot be made of wool, must be free of smoke and other odors, and of pet dander/hair. Be sure to remove all pins; don't attach buttons or removable items that could harm a child.

Thank you to ALL of our volunteers who work so hard in support of our very active chapter!! Each volunteer is an integral part of our Tucson team.

LETTERS TO LINUS

*Note: You will see an asterisk beside the name of some addressees. This is the name of the person who made the blanket. Before we distribute blankets we inspect each one for safety, put a special Project Linus label on it, fold up like a gift, tie with ribbon, and attach a gift card with the first name (only) of the person who made the blanket. Please be sure that you include your name and contact information when you drop off a blanket for Project Linus, so that we can give you credit for making this gift of love, and send you a thank you.

Dear Aunt Judy,
Thank you so much for the wonderful blankey. It gave me great comfort when Dr. Dean put tubes in my ears.
Best Wishes,
Lucian, 2 years old

DEAR SHERRY*,
THANK YOU FOR MY BLANKET.
(hand printed by Andrew, Age 5
Andrew had his tonsils out and received his blanket. He didn't want to drink water during recovery. I told him if he didn't drink water he would have to go back in the hospital. He asked if he would get another blanket if he had to go back. In told him "No", so he drank his water.
Thank you so much for your kind donation. God Bless.

Dear Ms. Lassise,
My 3-year-old son recently had surgery at the Foothills Surgery Center, where he was given a beautiful red and white knitted blanket during pre-op. We were not expecting such a nice, gift, and it was of great comfort to him while he was sheeled away from us to undergo his procedure. Whe the surgery was over and he was returned to us, he was clutching the blanket and crying. Now, whenever he has naptime at home, he asks for his "surgery blanket", and he proudly shows it off to anyone who visits. He and his 4-year-old sister also like to spread it out on the floor and have pretend picnics on it. Just precious.
According to the tag, his blanket was made by Kathy. Would you please convey our heartfelt thanks to her? My little boy will love this blanket for many years to come.
Kind regards

Dear Rene and Friends,
We would like to thank you for your recent donation . What an amazing gift this is for each one of the children and teens who enter the Child Protective Services system.
Many of the children have never received a gift that was so lovingly creeated just for them by someone who doesn't even know them and yet cares about their welfare. We are so blessed to know individuals like you who are willing to give their gift of time and talent.
Without the help of many generous donors like you, Aviva Children's Services could not respond to the needs of the children and families in the Child Protective Services system in our community.
Thank you again for thinking of them when you made your donation.
Cindy Lingel
Needlework Projects Coordinator

Dear Project Linus,
Your quilts have meant so much to me. They are not only comforting but also something I can pass on to my children and grandchildren as well.
Thank you for your beloved gift.
Sincerely, (name)

Dear Helen* and Project Linus,
I am writing this letter to tell you a little about the quilts that are made and given to the CODAC Las Amigas residential substance abuse treatment program.
As you know, this is a program for women suffering from substance abuse issues, many of whom are mothers. I am one of those women who completed the six-month program, nearly eight years ago this August (2012).
I have continued to live a new life in recovery and free from substance abuse to date. My family and I give a great amount of credit for this new life - substance abuse free - to the Las Amigas program.
While going through the program I received many different recovery tools to achieve my goal of living a healthier life. No need to add much more other than it is a fantastic program and I am forever grateful it was available to me in such a time of need to get better.
While I was there my two sons and I were given a quilt made by your group. My then five-year-old son, who is now 13, made his quilt his favorite blanket to sleep with. By the time he was 10 years old, it had become too worn for him to sleep with any more. He explained he did not want me to throw it away; he wanted me to put it in his memory chest instead. I did as he reuested and we still have that quilt to this day.
I had also received several other smaller quilts while in the program and have placed them throughout our home on the walls. The beautiful patterns make such wonderful wall hangings while also reminding me of the program where I learned so much about me and how to live life without active addiction.
The quilts truly mean so much and CODAC, myself and family wanted you and those who make and give these wonderful quilts to know!
Thank you, thank you and thank you!
Sincerely, D.

Dear Project Linus,
Thank you so much for the quilt that I received. I gave it to my daughter. She loved it! The colors were her favorite and it matched her room.
The work that has been done on these quilts is amazing: the care and time represented in all of them.
These gifts of love and care are greatly appreciated by all in the program.
It takes a lot of courage and time to turn your life around. Throughout our time in this program we come in contact with a lot of caring people, like yourselves.
Thank you once again for your thoughtfulness and kindness.
Sincerely, B.

Dear Project Linus,
As a woman in treatment at CODAC's Las Amigas I greatly enjoyed my gift of a quilt from your oranization. Aside from clothing of my own, I came here with very few personal items. The quilt is quite lovely to look at; all the handiwork and skill involved in its creation.
Although my child is a teenager, I have had the opportunity to see one of the baby blankets that was skillfully crocheted by one of your members. I know the mother to be receiving this blanket will be most grateful.
Again, thank you for the quilt I received; it is currently adding some cheer to my room.
I understand that as a facility we may have neglected to express our gratitude to Project Linus, and for that I also apologize. I can assure you each item donated to Las Amigas has brightened some woman's life.
Sincerely, T.
Dear Project Linus,
Thank you so much for the beautiful quilts! I sleep with mine every night. It means so much to me that you all took the time to hand make those for us. I love butterflies and my blanket has blue and yellow butterflies all over it. I really appreciate all of the hard work you put into each quilt. It is very nice to have something special and comforting with us her. This is something I will use forever.
Thanks again, J.
Dear Project Linus,
What a surprise it was to receive one of your homemade quilts! I could tell it was made with tender loving care. How did you know that I needed a little TLC when I received my quilt?
Your kindness and goodwill shall not soon be forgotten.
Sincerely, A.
Dear Project Linus,
Just a thank you for the quilts! I really like the kittens at the beach. Not too many people do quilts any more. To have a gift that makes me so very special, laying on my bed! I had five cats before I came here and my quilt has kittens on it like the five I had to give away. It keeps my feet warm. Your talent is special, and that you share your special gifts to make people happy.
Thank you, V.

Dear Project Linus
Would just like to start off by saying how much I appreciate what you all do. I think it's a wonderful thing to take time out of your life to make such beautiful gifts for the community. They are so special and really touch everyone's hearts. The quilt I received for Christmas was absolutely beautiful and I'm giving it to my daughter. She is due March first. I think it's wonderful to be able to pass it on to her. I hope you continue on making these gifts of joy that make so many smile. Thank you again for all you do.
J.

Thanks a bunch !(there was a drawing of flowers)
I just wanted to thank you so much for blessing us with the beautiful quilts you ladies make us. We love them. They make us smile!
With love, T.
Coordinator Rene Lassise received a telephone call from a gentleman who spoke broken English. He felt compelled to call her because his son had received a Project Linus blanket at Tucson Medical Center. Although they communicated with difficulty, the message he conveyed was "Thank you for the blanket. May God bless you".

Dear Rene and Project Linus Friends,
We would like to thank you for your recent donation of beautiful handmade afghans, and children, infant and teen quilts. What an amazing gift this is for each one of the children and teens who enter the Child Protective Services system.
Many of the children have never received a gift that was so lovingly created just for them, by someone who doesn't even know them, and yet cares about their welfare. We are so blessed to know individuals like you who are willing to give their gift of time and talent.
Without the help of many generous donors like you, Aviva Children's Services could not respond to the needs of the children and families in Child Protective Services system in our community.
Thank you again for thinking of them.
Sincerely,
Cindy
Needlework Projects Coordinator
Dear Ginny*,
Thank you for the beautiful quilt you made. My granddaughter and I love it. It's precious, just like I'm sure you are. It's a great gift.
God Bless you Always,
Love, Norene and Starla

Thank you so much for the wonderful handmade blankets. Because our baby was in the Special Care Unit we received one made by Fleicja*. We are also part of Healthy Families Arizona and received one made by Marilyn*. We really appreciate them.
Thank you,
Thank you for the unexpected, but appreciated blanket and Stuffy!
We also received some pullups and a homemade cloth bag to hold it all -- if this was from you also, thanks again! Good work, Troop#1190*
Debra (for baby Michael)
Note: Project Linus provides (only) our volunteers' homemade blankets; those blankets are given to recipient facilities for distribution to children. Some of the facilities receive clothing, stuffed animals and so forth from other sources and present them to families along with our blankets. Perhaps "Stuffy" was a stuffed animal?

Aunt Dot*,
My sweet new baby girl received one of your amazing handmade quilted blankets. What time it must have taken to make such a beautiful blanket. Thank you for sharing your wondeful talent with a total stranger. It is wonderful to snuggle up my little one in the beautiful blanket!
Amy and baby Heidi

Thank you for the beautiful blankets. The children use them every night to be warm. They were greatly appreciated.
The D. Family
Note: To respect the privacy of families, we list only given names, not surnames, on our web page.

Greeting card: "Wishing you a beautiful holiday season and a new year full of peace and happiness."
Wow - All the blankets Project Linus has donated have been so amazing. Thank you very much!
Kristine
CODAC Behavioral Health Services

Project Linus,
We want to extend a very special thank you for the wonderful handmade baby blankets. They are truly a treasure and they light up the faces of our families.
Thank you so very much!
The Womens' Center - Social Work Department

E-mail to Project Linus
Subject: Our new daughter arrived with a Project Linus blanket!
Thank you for your lovely work. We just adopted our third child, a two-year-old little girl. She has been through so much, but due to a loving foster mother, was ready to come home in October. She arrived with a Project Linus blanket and we use it in her crib still (e-mail dated December 28).
She is thriving and you would never imagine her early experiences when you see her running and playing and laughing all day long.
The blanket will always remind us of people who were rooting for her and praying for her along her way.

SHARED THOUGHTS
The following is a quote that was shared in memory of one of our Fallen Heros:
"You may die with nothing, but if you have brought a rainbow into somebody else's life, your mission is complete."
(from "In God We Still Trust", Diamond Rio's Greatest Hits II)
"We can do no great things, only small things with great love." -Mother Teresa
"I am only one but still I am one. I cannot do everything but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." --Helen Keller
One of our knitters saw this quote on TV and wanted to share it:
A volunteer is love in motion.

Below is a poem that we found on the Project Linus site of the East San Fernando/Burbank/Glendale/Pasadena Chapter:
With Tender Loving Care
I can't be there to hold your hand,
I can't be there to hug you,
I can't be there to dry a tear,
But there is one thing I can do.
I can sit here in my room at night
And dream of you out there,
And make a blanket just for you
With tender loving care.
When you hold this blanket in your arms
And close your eyes real tight,
You can feel the love I tucked inside
When I made this late one night.
So dry your tears and smile a smile,
You aren't alone, you see.
You have this special blanket--
You have a part of me.
Poem by Pam Braden

PROJECT LINUS, TUCSON CHAPTER
Tucson, AZ

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