Northern Ontario Group Celebrates Donation of 8,000 Quilts

A not-for-profit organization based in South Porcupine, Northern Ontario, has reached a remarkable milestone by donating its 8,000th quilt to residential school survivors. The group, known as Quilts for Survivors, celebrated this achievement during a gathering that honored community supporters and recognized the collective effort that made this possible.

Since its inception in June 2021, Quilts for Survivors has mobilized a dedicated network of volunteers to create vibrant and meaningful blankets for those affected by residential schools. The original goal was to provide just 215 quilts to local First Nations communities, but the initiative has since expanded significantly. The quilt showcased during the celebration is destined for a survivor in Siksika, Alberta, exemplifying the program’s far-reaching impact.

Founder Reflects on Growth and Commitment

Vanessa Genier, the founder of Quilts for Survivors, expressed her deep sense of gratitude and the emotional weight of the organization’s growth. “Now 8,000 and still going – I don’t even know how to put into words how I feel – I’m very, very blessed,” Genier stated. Her unwavering commitment to the cause is evident as she pledges to continue pairing quilts with those who request them, regardless of their location.

Looking ahead, Genier aims to reach even greater milestones. “Maybe this time next year, it will be at 10,000, but we’re just going to keep making them until people stop asking for them,” she articulated. Her vision encompasses an inclusive network that ensures no survivor is overlooked. “We’re going to try to get every living survivor, whether they’re day school, residential school, 60s scoop, or other traumas. Everyone’s going to get one,” she added.

Impact of Quilts on Healing and Awareness

The quilts serve as a profound symbol of recognition and comfort, helping recipients feel less isolated in their healing journeys. Sherri Black, a councillor representing the Missanabie Cree First Nation and Genier’s home community, underscored the significance of this gesture. She highlighted the silence that often surrounded the history of residential schools in many families.

“I never even heard about residential schooling until once the government made their apology,” Black noted. She described her personal exploration into this history that followed the national apology, revealing how many families, including her own, were compelled to confront a previously hidden past. “It was never spoken of on my side of the family, so once the apology was made, then… I had to do my investigations, you know, ask the elders and find out exactly what happened,” she recalled.

Volunteer Support Fuels Ongoing Mission

To sustain its remarkable output and ambitious goals, Quilts for Survivors relies heavily on ongoing community support. The organization currently mails out an average of five quilts each day, which requires a steady influx of volunteer contributions. The group welcomes individuals to assist by contributing quilt blocks, emphasizing that community involvement is crucial to their success.

In addition to volunteer efforts, the organization’s board is actively seeking an investment partner to acquire a new arm quilting machine. This tool would significantly enhance their capacity to provide comfort to survivors, furthering the reach and impact of their mission.

For more information on Quilts for Survivors and how to get involved, interested individuals can visit the organization’s social media pages. As the initiative continues to grow, the commitment to supporting survivors remains steadfast, ensuring that healing and recognition are extended to all who have suffered.