A group of seniors in St. Louis, Missouri, are regularly dedicating their time to a creative and philanthropic endeavor, crafting quilts from donated fabric scraps for those in need. The quilting club, based at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, meets every Thursday morning, providing handmade comfort to foster children and veterans. Member Barb Jackson summarized the group's mission, stating they are "just giving back to the community."
The initiative began with Glenette Nothum, the activities coordinator at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, who herself enjoys quilting. Nothum observed that once residents became aware of her interest, several expressed a desire to participate. This initial enthusiasm spurred the formation of the club. The community supported the emerging group by donating both fabric and sewing machines, allowing the club to begin its work.
The club includes individuals with varied levels of sewing expertise. Barb Jackson, 71, brought prior experience to the group, having learned to sew from her mother. Another member, 81-year-old Doris Lake, initially hesitated about joining due to a lack of sewing background. However, Jackson encouraged her to participate, and Lake has since developed an affinity for operating her sewing machine. Not all members of the club are involved in the actual sewing process, but all contribute to the club's overall efforts.
The handmade quilts serve as donations to various individuals and groups identified as being in need. Among the recipients are children within the foster care system. Nothum confirmed that a recent project included a baby quilt specifically intended for the foster care system. Additionally, some of the quilts have been given to veterans. These veteran recipients include individuals at the Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital, which subsequently sent a letter expressing gratitude to the quilters. The donations reflect the group's broader goal to support anyone who may benefit from their work.
This ongoing effort at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights demonstrates how residents are utilizing their skills and time to provide comfort and support to vulnerable populations within their wider community. The weekly gatherings not only foster a sense of purpose among the seniors but also create tangible items of warmth and appreciation for those facing difficult circumstances.