Local Residents Launch Project Linus Chapter to Support Children

A new chapter of Project Linus Canada has been established in Owen Sound, aiming to provide handmade blankets to children in crisis. This local initiative seeks knitters, quilters, and volunteers to support its mission of delivering comfort to young individuals facing difficult circumstances.

Project Linus Canada, a registered not-for-profit organization, supplies handmade blankets to children aged from infants to 17 years old. These blankets are intended for those affected by traumatic situations, including car accidents, the loss of a loved one, or survivors of house fires. The organization also supports teenagers battling serious illnesses. As stated on its website, “People armed with only needles, hooks, yarn, and fabric have been knitting, crocheting, and sewing comforting blankets for strangers in places far away.”

The initiative in Owen Sound was sparked by Kelsey Breen, who learned about Project Linus Canada while participating in an online knitting forum. Inspired to contribute, she recognized the nearest chapter was located in Barrie, approximately two hours away. “I didn’t think driving two hours to Barrie to donate a blanket made a lot of sense, so I decided to start a local chapter,” Breen explained during an information session at the Owen Sound library. After completing the necessary paperwork and submitting a $25 fee, the Georgian Bay chapter officially became part of the organization.

Breen, alongside her mother, Susan, and sister, Amanda, are currently recruiting local volunteers and blanket makers to join the cause. Interested individuals can contribute by donating handmade blankets, blanket-making supplies, or their time. Each blanket given to a child is theirs to keep, creating an ongoing need for donations. Breen emphasized, “There’s nothing like the warm hug of a handmade blanket.”

The handmade blankets can vary in size and style, catering to the preferences of the local chapter and the needs of the children served. Guidelines for blanket-making are available online, including tips and size specifications for different age groups, ranging from preemies to teenagers. Acceptable styles include quilts, fleece blankets, knitted or crocheted afghans, and receiving blankets in child-friendly colours.

To bolster their efforts, Project Linus chapters welcome donations of fabric, notions, yarn, needles, or gift cards to enhance their resources. Those who wish to donate but face financial constraints for supplies can contact the local chapter for assistance. Receipts are available for monetary contributions of $25 or more, which can be sent directly to the local chapter or mailed to Project Linus Canada, specifying the intended chapter for support. The organization retains 10 percent of all donations to cover operational expenses, including printing blanket labels and general administrative costs.

Local chapters, such as Project Linus Georgian Bay, collaborate with community organizations to distribute blankets to children in need. So far, they have partnered with Brightshores Hospital in Owen Sound, as well as the Owen Sound Fire Department and the Inter Township Fire Department. Breen noted, “We’re looking for more community partners. They can reach out to us if they’d like to be involved.”

Project Linus was founded by Karen Loucks-Baker in response to an article in Parade Magazine detailing the experience of a child diagnosed with leukemia. This child’s special blanket provided comfort during her treatment, leading Loucks-Baker to consider if other children might benefit from similar support. The organization quickly expanded from its origins in Colorado to a nationwide effort. In 1998, Project Linus Canada was established as a registered charity by Rona Kleiman.

As the new chapter coordinator, Breen is responsible for recruiting volunteers, ensuring that each blanket is labeled appropriately, and confirming that donated blankets meet the organization’s standards before delivery. She mentioned that they already have extra storage available for incoming donations.

For further information or to get involved with Project Linus Georgian Bay, individuals can contact Kelsey Breen via email or at 519-374-5624. Additional details can also be found on the Project Linus website, where community members can learn more about this impactful initiative.