A few weeks ago I mentioned that I was knitting winter items for evacuees and others affected by Sandy. I finished one scarf, only to have trouble finding somewhere to donate it. It seems that cleaning supplies, diapers, etc. were more in need at the time.

 

For those who are interested in knitting for others, I wanted to share information about another organization I’ve come across: The Preemie Project.

 

Over a year ago, a note went out in our neighborhood, asking for parents to knit hats for preemies at a local hospital, so the parents of those children would know they had someone thinking about them and pulling for their little ones. I was swept away by it, and subsequently launched myself full force into knitting. I made four hats, then started knitting for practically everyone else I knew.

 

When we lost Ethan, knitting was a particular solace for me. It made me feel productive and creative in a time when I didn’t know which part of the day was which.

 

Unfortunately, I never got the hats I made to the lady who got me started. Because the hats are doing absolutely no good sitting in our apartment without little heads and hearts to warm, I went in search of a similar organization—and found one!

 

Here’s the mission statement at The Preemie Project:

 

“The Preemie Project seeks to provide comfort and support to critically ill infants and their families in Newborn Intensive Care Units in Iowa. We achieve our mission through the support of a devoted group of local and national volunteers.”

 

In my experience, knitting for others is way more fun than knitting for myself. If you’re just getting started—or want to start—a tiny baby hat is a great way to begin. If you’re a moderate or experienced knitter, you can knock these guys off in no time.

 

The weeks winding down toward Christmas can be crunch time for knitters. But we all know that the coming month is also a special time to consider those in need. Contributing to The Preemie Project—or something like it in your area—is a great way to do that.

 

I invite you to join me in giving a little bit of your time, heart, and yarn to the family of a precious little one in need this year. Tomorrow I’m sending out four hats in an orange/white cotton tweed yarn. Two have pom-poms on top; one has a crocheted flower at the edge; the last is simple, with a rolled brim (for bigger little heads).

 

Leave a comment and let everyone know what you knit!