Community Outreach
Care Quilts
formerly Memory Quilts
Care Quilts are small baby quilts that are donated to WHRN Midtown (formerly Grand River Hospital). Some of these quilts are used by the Pediatric Bereavement Program. They are given to families that lose a child at birth or shortly thereafter. Some of these quilts are all white and are given to families whose funeral traditions require white. Some of the quilts are given to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for babies that need to spend a little extra time in hospital before they go home.
Lastly, if there is a need, some of the quilts go to the Emergency Department.
Whatever department they go to, these quilts provide comfort and care at difficult times and are much appreciated by the families.
The quilts are between 28 to 30 inches square and can be made in fabrics that are appropriate for babies. Guild labels are available at Gatherings. You may make quilts from your own stash in a design of your choosing or kits are available at Gatherings.
Thank you to our members for their support.
Care Quilt Guidelines
Care Quilt Guidelines
To ensure that Memory Quilts are appropriate and respectful for their intended recipients, please follow these guidelines carefully:
Size: Quilts should be between 25 to 30 inches square.
Design: The design is up to you, but it should be suitable for babies. A simple pattern option is to use 25 squares of 5½ or 6½ inches. All-white quilts are specifically made for families whose religious beliefs include white as a symbol of mourning. These quilts must have no religious references, human images, or animals.
Materials: Flannelette backing and polyester batting are preferred for these quilts. You may use your own fabric, or kits are available for your convenience.
Labels: Labels for your quilt are available from the project coordinator, Pamela Clarkson.
By following these guidelines, you help us ensure that each Care Quilt serves its purpose of providing comfort and solace during a family’s most difficult time.
If you would like to contribute or need more information, please contact our coordinator. Thank you for helping us extend this small but meaningful gesture to families in need.