For more than a decade, a small but mighty group of quilters in Sault Ste. Marie has been wrapping local children in comfort and care with its handmade quilts.
The Sault Ste. Marie chapter of Quilts for Kids is the only one of its kind in Canada.
Founded 11 years ago by Vicki Young and three friends, the group was inspired after discovering the U.S.-based charity by the same name online. A visit to its headquarters in Philadelphia sealed the deal and they started Canada’s first chapter.
“Our mission is to provide comfort to children who are in need, whether it’s because of illness, accident, injury or loss. We want every child to know someone cares,” said Vicki Young, team leader of the local chapter.
To date, the dedicated group has donated over 5,000 quilts to children and families.
These quilts have reached children through organizations like the Children’s Aid Society, Algoma Family Services, Sault Area Hospital’s neonatal unit and even first responders, who keep them on hand in ambulances, fire trucks and police cruisers.
The group also steps in for individual families, like those who have lost a home or have a seriously ill child.
These quilts represent love, hope and comfort, all stitched by people who just want to help.
How You Can Help
The local chapter now has around 45 members, all volunteering their time and talent to sew and quilt. It’s a labour of love; one that depends on community support to keep going.
“What we need most right now is financial support,” Young said. “We have to purchase backing, batting, fabric and other supplies. Even though our members donate a lot, there are ongoing expenses we can’t cover on our own.”
Those who want to support the cause can donate directly by reaching out via email at [email protected]. Every contribution helps the group continue its mission of providing warmth and comfort to children in need.
Beyond donations, the group is also eager to welcome new members. “It’s about more than just sewing,” Young said. “It’s about coming together, socializing and doing something meaningful.”
New members don’t need to be experts to get involved. Young keeps extra sewing kits and machines on hand for anyone who wants to learn.
The group meets twice a month to work on projects together, share tips and just enjoy each other’s company.
Thanks to the compassion and dedication of the Sault Ste. Marie Quilts for Kids volunteers, thousands of children have something to hold onto that tells them that they are cared for.
SooToday is proud to make a difference in our community by highlighting extraordinary individuals and organizations with this Cares feature, a foundational piece of our SooToday Cares program.
The SooToday Cares team's mission is to create meaningful change in Sault Ste. Marie and inspire others to do the same.