Project Linus

Both participants and recipients benefit by virtue of its two-fold mission

by Grace Lorraine Bologna



Photograph by Grace Lorraine Bologna
The Project Linus annual appreciation brunch at Bear Canyon Senior Citizens' Center was well attended.

Two-Fold Mission of Project Linus

Glenda Quint said that after she retired she needed something to do, so she visited the Bear Canyon Senior Citizens’ Center to discover what was offered. She joined the crocheting and knitting group, which has evolved into the Project Linus gathering that meets there on Monday mornings.

That was eight years ago. Today, Albuquerque Project Linus has provided more than 21,600 blankets to children in New Mexico. It has brought a variety of people together, each with a story to tell.

The project offers not only security blankets to needy or traumatized children, but also a rewarding volunteer experience to its “blanketeers.”

Dorothy Matteson got involved about seven years ago and two years ago accepted responsibility for a leadership position. During “show and tell” during gatherings, she enjoys hoisting completed blankets for appreciation and applause from the other participants.

“The ladies love it,” she said.

Quint and Matteson were friends at Highland High School, members of the class of 1955. They say they especially appreciate the time they are spending together as “blanketeers.”

Jeannine Steidl has begun work on her 110th blanket for Project Linus. Almost four years ago she set herself a goal to create 25 blankets per year. She began with knitting skills, and has learned how to crochet, also, in the friendly group atmosphere.

Mary Hewitt was a young girl when her mother taught her how to crochet, and to this day she still likes to crochet. She is also an avid bird watcher, though she does not engage in the two hobbies simultaneously.

“I enjoy doing it and I’m not a person who can sit around and do nothing,” Hewitt said. She estimated that she has completed 200 blankets in her three years with Project Linus.

Photograph by Grace Lorraine Bologna

Mary Hewitt shows some of her work during the annual appreciation brunch at Bear Canyon Senior Citizens' Center.

How You Can Help
Knit, Crochet or Quilt: “Blanketeers” come from many different skill levels. Some are learning their crafts while participating in groups like the one at Bear Canyon. They are assisted by others, who may have decades of experience in knitting and crocheting. (Quilting groups meet elsewhere.) From the looks of a recent gathering, everyone seems to really enjoy each other’s company as they work together.

However, many “blanketeers” prefer to work alone, in the privacy of their own homes. Dozens of drop-off centers exist, and some of the leading ladies will even pick up donations. Of course, all the blankets must be new, hand-made and suitable for youngsters.

Recycle Unwanted Supplies: “We call it a ‘stash’ of yarn,” Matteson said, of the assorted yarns that may be tucked away in bags , baskets and drawers. If someone wants to donate a ‘stash,’ she will help get it to the “blanketeers.” (They also make quilts, so fabric and sewing notions are welcome contributions.)

Donate a Gift Card: Michaels, Hobby Lobby and Joanns stores are recommended, but gift certificates from any store that carries yarn and fabric will be appreciated.

Buy a Vest: Pat Burke knits vests from yarns that have been donated to Project Linus but do not meet the standards for children’s blankets. Then she sells the vests and reinvests the money from the sale into yarn that is suitable for the project.
The vests are offered first to other Project Linus participants. If they are not sold within the group, the Palo Duro Center gift shop sells them for $30, which includes a markup for commission.

Make a Cash Donation: Money is used to pay operating expenses, like producing flyers for the “Make a Blanket Day.” Project Linus is a 100 percent non-profit, volunteer organization.

Where the Blankets Go
Albuquerque Public Servants: Project Linus distributes blankets to the Albuquerque Police and Fire Departments, as well as the New Mexico National Guard. The officers and firefighters can provide children in crises with unique, hand-made blankets to ease the shock of their experiences. As the Project Linus pamphlet puts it: “Oftentimes it is the comfort that helps calm and soothe a young life in turmoil.”

Women’s Housing Coalition: “Someone from Project Linus walked in, told us about the program and asked if we wanted to receive blankets,” said Janell DuPont, housing coordinator. Since before Christmas, 2007, WHC has gotten, and given to the residents, about 45 blankets. The children receive their blankets at the monthly tenants’ meeting.

Other Organizations: Steidl estimated that 40 different agencies receive Project Linus blankets. Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department, Kirtland Air Force base, Red Cross, and the Albuquerque public schools are some of the larger organizations. Donations also go to Shepherd of the Valley, All Faith’s Receiving Home, Barrett House, Casa Angelica, Cuidando Los Niños and Imus Ranch. Area hospitals are recipients, as well.

National and Local
The National Headquarters (http://www.projectlinus.org/) lists 406 local chapters, as of Dec. 2007. They have provided, altogether, more than two million blankets, “warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need.”

Albuquerque residents interested in becoming involved with Project Linus can call Gail, 505-299-7570, on the East side or Dottie, on the West side, 505-238-1065. The website has more information: http://www.nmlinus.org/.

Written 16 April 2008

Go to Top