The Bethlehem Inn is a shelter for the homeless. They get a lot of women with children who have been through abuse and have nowhere to go. There is also one in Redmond. They have many programs and both volunteers and staff to help people with whatever service they may need.
Kelly K in Bend, OR had community service hours to accomplish. We were happy to help her! She made so many beautiful binkies and delivered them. Here’s her story.
The Bethlehem Inn is a shelter for the homeless. They get a lot of women with children who have been through abuse and have nowhere to go. There is also one in Redmond. They have many programs and both volunteers and staff to help people with whatever service they may need.
They are always looking for donations,right now anything warm. So I figured this would be the place where the blankets would be both appreciated and and comforting, with the added benefit of being able to do something local.
As for the blankets themselves. I struggled and had to enlist help at times. I really wanted the kids to feel special, like they are receiving a present. I first thought about making a little matching blanket for their baby dolls or special stuffed animal, teddy bear etc. But what if they didnt have that? I decided adding a matching “baby” would make the blankets more personal and along with a nice ribbon, dress it up a bit.
I was going to get them at the dollar store as things are a little tight right now. But my sister has been collecting Beanie Babies for years, I collect them when I see ones she doesnt have and mail them back to Pa. for her birthday or Christmas. Naaaa, she has plenty not to mention an adult also. Lol. They would serve a much better purpose here with some kids. So I matched them up and really liked the difference. Brighter warmer I guess.
I was very surprised that Matt at the Inn was so pleased with that extra touch.
I think I will continue to make blankets (one at a time, at a slower pace) along with gathering clothes and all the other things they need to drop off. It feels good to help and stopping some of the huge waste going on all around us is also a perk.
You got me started and I thank you for myself and all the lives you touch through others.
I will keep in touch when I donate so you can keep up on that ripple effect
