Quad-Cities Chapter
March 15, 2011, Long Grove, Iowa – The Binky Patrol, a national non-profit organization dedicated to helping children, named Quilts by the Oz an official drop off site for blankets, quilts and supplies donated by members of the Quad-Cities Chapter. The quilt shop, owned by Harlene Rivelli, is located at 5341 Avenue of the Cities, Moline.
March 15, 2011, Long Grove, Iowa – The Binky Patrol, a national non-profit organization dedicated to helping children, named Quilts by the Oz an official drop off site for blankets, quilts and supplies donated by members of the Quad-Cities Chapter. The quilt shop, owned by Harlene Rivelli, is located at 5341 Avenue of the Cities, Moline. Donations may be dropped off during regular store hours Monday through Friday, 10 – 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 – 2 p.m. The name, address and phone number of the donor should be included.
The Binky Patrol is an all volunteer, national non-profit dedicated to making and distributing homemade blankets and quilts to children suffering from chronic or terminal illnesses; those who are abused; in foster care; or experiencing trauma of any kind. Recipients are from birth to 18 years. Blankets and quilts, or "Binkies" as they are known, are distributed by the Chapter to local area shelters, hospitals and other social agencies.
The organization’s mission is to seek the "invisible kids", those who have been forgotten, not seen or heard. Binkies are a gift, a reminder that they too are loved and thought of by others who care.
The Quad-Cities Chapter was started in September 2001. Since then almost three thousand Binkies have been made by local volunteers and distributed to area children. Some of the agencies receiving binkies include Genesis Neo-Natal Unit, Rick’s House of Hope, Gilda’s Club, Family Resources, Bethany for Children & Families, The Salvation Army, The American Red Cross, Family Resources, and Lutheran Social Services.
Binkies may be crocheted, knitted, sewn or quilted. They must be new, handmade and suitable for a baby, child or teen. Volunteers willing to make binkies are needed as are financial donations and supplies. All donations are tax deductible. For more information about the Quad-Cities Chapter, contact Nancy Hyman, 309-235-3475 or NHyman@TrimbleGroup.com.
The national website is www.binkypatrol.org.