The Saint Francis “Blanketeer Group” was organized in 2006 and has been active for the past 17 years, donating more than 2,993 blankets to local children in need.
The goal is to collect and distribute blankets to needy children in Cambria, Blair and Somerset counties through the Healing Patch and Nurse Family Partnership (Home Nursing Agency) and through Dauntless Fire Co.
Each year, the Blanketeers make soft blankets for babies and young children. All of the blankets are handmade. They are approximately 38×48 inches and are made from new materials from a smoke-free environment.
The blankets go to children who have suffered an illness, who have lost someone important in their life, or have been involved in an emergency situation.
“Organizing this annual service project comes naturally for me because I love to help those in need,” said Melita O’Donnell, an Administrative Specialist in the Office of Academic Affairs who has been involved with the initiative for many years.
“There is nothing better than seeing a smile on a child’s face when they receive a blanket. I am grateful that the number of blankets collected each year has grown from 70 blankets collected in 2006 to our record high in 2022 of 381.”
While any blanket material is acceptable, washable fabrics and yarns are preferred because they are more durable.
“Individuals can help by making a blanket and sharing information about the annual collection with friends and family,” said O’Donnell.
Next year, blankets will be collected from Sept. 30 to Nov. 1, 2024.
“This is such a heart-warming activity,” said junior Allison Kirsch. “I am glad our Saint Francis community has these initiatives to help kids.”
