ERVING — A group of Franklin County seniors is making blankets to keep those at local nursing homes warm.
More than 25 blankets have been made so far in the Create to Donate program, and the Erving Senior Friends Group will make its first blanket delivery to Quabbin Valley Healthcare Wednesday.
The group consists of 23 members, ages 55 to 99, all from communities in and around Franklin County. Members meet the third Tuesday of each month and raise money throughout the year in various ways, including a Holiday Bazaar in December.
“Because of all the hard work, we have been able to purchase the materials for this project and for future projects,” said Senior Center director Paula Betters. Betters also explained that the group achieved a tax-exempt 501(c)3 status last July, which helps with project costs.
Some of the blanket creators are not members of the Friends group but still wanted to help with the project.
The fleece blankets are the perfect size for placing over a lap: approximately 54 inches by 62 inches. Designs are different on each side and coordinate with the theme of each blanket.
Blanket themes includes flowers and plaids, fishing and hunting, dogs and cats and fishing and hunting.
“We wanted to make a difference and bring some cheer to other seniors that are currently in our area nursing care facilities,” Betters said.
Originally, the idea was to make blankets for seniors that used to attend the Erving Senior Center who now live in a local nursing facility. The group realized while making the blankets that it was a great time to get together and set a goal to make five blankets per local care center.
Betters says she hopes to continue the Create to Donate program, whether it be more blankets or another idea “for a great purpose and keeping our seniors in mind.”
Reach Christie Wisniewski at:
cwisniewski@recorder.com
or 413-772-0261, ext. 280