Stitch It Forward Society collecting blankets to keep vulnerable population warm

“We take sleeping bags as well, anything to keep the people warm.”

She remarked that there are many organizations seeking blankets for distribution this time of year, including the shelter in Lethbridge and MyCityCare. Herrick said one warm blanket can make a huge positive impact on someone’s life, noting that many of us are fortunate to have a home to go to every night, but not everyone is that lucky.

She said having to sleep outside in intense below-zero conditions sounds like a “horrific experience”, which is influencing her drive to help out.

“There’s a lot of people that are on the street and living like that…to actually live on the street, I can imagine how grateful they would be to be able to wrap up in a warm blanket rather than freezing to death.”

Herrick added that society members “really want to help our community and help the people that are in need of a little warmth and comfort.”

She said that many of us may have blankets that are just sitting in storage closets going unused. This initiative is a great way to get rid of those unused items and put them to good use.

“It doesn’t hurt to give when you have excess and then it’s also nice to know that if I was ever in need for any reasons, I know that I could go to one of these organizations and say, ‘look, I don’t have a blanket, can I have a blanket,’ and they would give it to me without any questions asked.”

Herrick said sooner is better for the drop-off of blankets, with cold weather expected to continue in the region.

Additionally, Stitch It Forward Society members can make blankets, with “a ton of fabric” being donated by community members. Anyone looking to get more involved can contact Herrick at 403-892-8660 or by emailing stitchitforwarded@gmail.com.

by Justin Goulet

Stitch It Forward Society collecting blankets to keep vulnerable population warm

What's Happening