Seniors meeting weekly in St. Louis, Missouri, are turning fabric scraps into comforting quilts for local foster children and veterans. The group gathers every Thursday morning at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, channeling their skills and time into a charitable effort that provides warmth and care to individuals in challenging circumstances. This initiative, centered on creating handmade blankets, offers a tangible form of support for those identified as needing assistance.
The idea for the quilting club came from Glenette Nothum, an activities coordinator at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights. Nothum, who expressed a personal passion for quilting, saw interest grow among the residents. As word spread about her hobby, several ladies became enthusiastic about the prospect of learning and participating in a quilting activity. This resident interest quickly led to the formation of the club, bolstered by community support through donations of essential materials like fabric and sewing machines. The ready supply of resources allowed the nascent group to begin their work without delay.
Among the active members of the quilting club is 71-year-old Barb Jackson, who brings a lifetime of experience to the group. Jackson learned the craft from her mother, a skilled sewer who passed on her knowledge. Her expertise is now part of the collective effort, contributing to the quality and consistency of the quilts produced. Another key participant is 81-year-old Doris Lake, who initially hesitated to join, believing she lacked the necessary skills. However, Jackson encouraged Lake to participate, stating that everyone could contribute. Lake has since embraced the activity, expressing affection for her sewing machine and the new hobby she has discovered. While not every member actively sews, all participants contribute in various ways, ensuring the club's productivity and continued success.
The finished quilts are distributed to various individuals and groups identified as being in need. A notable recipient group is children within the foster care system. The club specifically made a baby quilt on one occasion to be donated to foster care. Additionally, some quilts have been provided to veterans receiving care at the Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital. The impact of these donations has been recognized; the veterans at the hospital sent a letter of thanks to the quilters, acknowledging their thoughtful contributions. The members' collective goal is to give quilts to whoever may need them, reflecting a broad commitment to helping others.
This dedicated group of seniors embodies a spirit of community service, using their talents to benefit others. As club member Barb Jackson articulated, the group is "just giving back to the community." This sentiment underscores the club's core mission: leveraging personal skills and collective effort to provide comfort and support to vulnerable populations in the St. Louis area. The consistent weekly meetings and the willingness of members to contribute, whether by sewing or other means, highlight a sustained commitment to their charitable objective. The positive feedback from recipients, such as the veterans' letter of thanks, reinforces the value and appreciation for the seniors' ongoing work.
