Local Chapter of Project Linus Seeks Volunteers and Donations

A new local chapter of Project Linus Canada has been established in Owen Sound, actively seeking volunteers, blanket makers, and donations. This not-for-profit organization provides handmade blankets to children in crisis, including those who have experienced car accidents, lost loved ones, or survived house fires. The program is open to infants and young people up to age 17 who could benefit from the comfort of a blanket.

During an information session held at the Owen Sound library, Kelsey Breen shared her motivation for starting the chapter. Inspired by an online knitting forum, she realized 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.

After completing the necessary paperwork and submitting a $25 fee, Breen officially launched Project Linus Georgian Bay. She, along with her mother Susan and sister Amanda, are now working to spread awareness about the charity’s mission and recruit local volunteers and blanket makers.

Individuals interested in contributing can donate handmade blankets, blanket-making supplies, or their time. Every blanket gifted to a child in need is theirs to keep, highlighting the ongoing demand for donations. “There’s nothing like the warm hug of a handmade blanket,” Breen noted, emphasizing the emotional impact of the gifts.

Handmade blankets can vary in size and style, including quilts, fleece blankets, crocheted or knitted afghans, and receiving blankets in child-friendly colors. Specific blanket-making guidelines are available on the Project Linus website, detailing size requirements for different age groups, from newborns to teens.

In addition to blankets, the local chapter welcomes donations of fabric, yarn, needles, and gift cards to support their supply needs. For those who wish to donate but cannot afford the materials, Breen encourages them to reach out to the chapter for assistance. Monetary donations of $25 or more are also accepted, with receipts available for tax purposes. Contributions can be made directly to the local chapter or sent to Project Linus Canada, specifying the intended chapter for the funds. The organization retains 10 percent of all donations for operational costs, including blanket labels, accounting, and office supplies.

The local chapters collaborate with community groups to distribute the blankets to children in need. So far, Project Linus Georgian Bay has partnered with Brightshores Hospital, the Owen Sound Fire Department, and the Inter Township Fire Department. Breen expressed a desire to expand these partnerships, inviting more community organizations to get involved.

The roots of Project Linus trace back to when Karen Loucks-Baker from Denver was inspired by a story about a young girl named Laura, who received a special blanket during her battle with leukemia. Wondering if other children needed similar comfort, she reached out to the Rocky Mountain Children’s Cancer Centre, leading to the establishment of Project Linus. The initiative quickly gained traction, expanding from Colorado nationwide in a matter of months. In 1998, Rona Kleiman founded Project Linus Canada as a registered charity.

As the newest chapter coordinator, Breen is responsible for ensuring that every blanket meets the organization’s standards and has a Project Linus Canada label sewn on it. She is also in charge of packaging the blankets for delivery to community partners. With additional storage available, Breen is prepared to receive donated blankets.

For those wishing to contact Project Linus Georgian Bay, Breen can be reached via email or by phone at 519-374-5624. More information about the organization and its initiatives can be found on their website.