A Warrington group of dedicated knitters and quilters is celebrating 20 years of making a difference to children and families across the region.
Project Linus UK Warrington began in 2002 when Helen Evans and a small group of like-minded crafters decided to establish a local group for the then little-known charity.
Named after Linus from the Peanuts comic strip, who was never without his security blanket, Project Linus arrived in the UK in 2000 after being launched in America in 1995.
Its aim is simple – to provide handmade blankets and other items to children who need comfort, with the group’s motto reflecting that philosophy: “A quilt/blanket is a hug you can keep.”
The founding members – Helen Evans, Jean Dickinson, Mary Hamilton, Olive Marshall, Irene Costigan and Terry Jones – secured a meeting place at Padgate Methodist Church, where they began meeting monthly to make quilts.
They called themselves the Crazy Quilters and Knitters and, despite having no funding, quickly established themselves as a prolific and well-organised group.
Their efforts were officially recognised by Project Linus UK in 2006.
From those humble beginnings, the group has grown from fewer than 10 members to more than 50 volunteers.
Over the past two decades, members have knitted and sewn thousands of items, including quilts, blankets, hats, jackets, cardigans, incubator covers, cot quiltlets and cold cot covers – helping to provide comfort to children and families during difficult times.
The group donates to a wide range of local and regional organisations, including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Warrington’s Special Care Baby Unit, special schools, hospices and refuges, as well as other organisations supporting children in need.
In total, the volunteers have made approximately 10,000 items for donation across the region and beyond.
The achievement is particularly significant given that the group remains entirely volunteer-led and relies on donations and fundraising to continue its work.
To mark the milestone, Project Linus UK Warrington members came together for a 20th anniversary celebration in June.
The group will also hold an Open Day at Padgate Methodist Church on Saturday, October 10, from 10.30am to 2pm, when members will showcase a selection of the quilts and blankets they have made and donated over the years.
Thousands of children aged from birth to 18 across the region have benefited from the group’s work over the years, and members are determined to continue making a difference.
With more than 10,000 handmade items already produced, the Warrington group hopes to make thousands more in the years ahead.
