Project Linus is a 100% volunteer organization dedicated to comforting critically ill and traumatized infants or children with new, handmade security blankets. Volunteers for the Collin/Cooke/Grayson/Rockwall County Project Linus Chapter distribute sewn, quilted, fleece, knitted or crocheted blankets.
Mental health professionals confirm blankets often relieve anxieties.
"The blankets we make for NICU and for the sheriff and police are special to us," explains McKinney resident and Project Linus volunteer Midge Thompson. "The first responders carry our blankets in their cars and give out when needed, such as for car accidents or abuse."
She delivers the blankets to hospitals and medical centers, including McKinney Medical City (NICU and pediatric surgery), Baylor McKinney NICU, Baylor Centennial NICU, Texas Health Southwest, Samaritan Inn, Hope Women’s Center and Centennial Baylor Scott & White.
Midge says 15 volunteers meet at the Heard-Craig Carriage House on the second Tuesday of each month from 1-4 p.m. "We're small but growing. We get new people every month as word gets out."
"If we hear of a child in crisis and they happen to like a certain superhero or theme, we'll get that blanket to nurses to hand out," Midge says.
"Sometimes when we get a thank you, we also gain a person who thinks what we do is special and then they want to help. It's also fun to get a note that our blanket is someone's favorite and they use it every day," she adds.
All Project Linus provided blankets must be new and handmade. Midge says they receive donations of fabric, yarn, cash, checks and gift cards to JoAnn Fabric & Craft Store and Walmart for supplies. Those wishing to donate funds or supplies, or to make blankets at home, should email forthmar@msn.com or call 972.998.3378 to secure current needs.
Regina Forthman, Project Linus Chapter coordinator, says JoAnn's gift cards should be mailed to Project Linus, P.O. Box 187, Lavon, TX 75166.
In McKinney, volunteers may drop off handmade blankets for the group in a dedicated Project Linus bin at the JoAnn Fabric & Craft Store, 2050 W. University Drive, Ste. 250.
"We take pride in our work and put lots of love into blankets we make, knowing they'll bring comfort and security to children in crisis."
