One thing that stood out from the Grenfell Towers Quilt appeal was the generosity of the sewing and quilting community. People gave fabric, wadding, blocks, whole quilts and even money to help us achieve our goal of offering a quilt to every family living in the flats on that tragic night in June 2017.
Late in December, as the quilts were sent out and additional homes found for all the extra ones we had collected, I began to feel quite sad that the community we had built over the course of 6 months might cease. To me the group had become a virtual family – we had laughed and cried together, and we had shared our love for quilts and the comfort that they can bring.
Late evening on Christmas Eve, as I helped Santa put my children’s presents under the tree, an idea began to come together in my mind. I saw how blessed my two were, how our wider family had spoiled them so much and my thoughts turned to those who might not be enjoying the festive season quite so much.
According to The Independant in March 2018, Government statistics show that more than 30% of children in the UK are living in relative poverty (after housing costs). The Trussell Trust reported the use of food banks has risen 13% in the year to March 2018 with more than 1.3 million emergency three day food parcels being given with almost half a million of these going to families with children.
It’s not a stretch to see that those who are struggling to afford food are very unlikely to be enjoying the festive season. What if I could persuade the community to help? Would they be interested or think I was nuts? Was it too much to ask them to give again when they had already given so much? I put my idea to my fellow Grenfell organising team members who very quickly told me to go for it. So on the 1st of January I put my challenge out to the group. Would you make one stocking each month in 2018 and in December donate it to a food bank local to you?
The response once again was overwhelming. So many people wanted to get involved, it truly warmed my heart. And since January we have all been making, some one per month, some 12 at a time and others with a few here and a few there. My current estimate will be at least 200 stockings going to worthy causes at the end of 2018. And its not too late for you to get involved!
There are hundreds of stocking tutorials and patterns online. And if stockings are not quite your thing then a drawstring bag or something similar would work just as well. Some in the group have chosen Women’s Shelters or Refuges, others are planning to gift their makes to local homeless charities and of course there are many food banks right across the country, all looking out for those in our communities who for any number of reasons might not have the means to enjoy the Christmas period.
I decided I wanted to add a little gift to each of my stockings so throughout the year I have been collecting gifts for children. Colouring pencils, note books and stickers, and as soon as I see them in the supermarket, a few chocolate coins will be added too.
Our Facebook group is a wonderful community (you can join here). We share our projects and our quilty purchases, and together we are working, each of us separately but together through the wonders of the internet, to bring a few smiles to those who might be facing a very sombre Christmas this year. Here are some of the stockings made so far. (Credit also to Lyn Banks who made the stockings in the heading picture.)
Click here to find my free Mini Stocking Pattern and perhaps whip up a few. You may choose to donate them or not, they would also make great family gifts or as decorations around your home this December.
That’s a wonderful thing to do Amy.x
Thank you Lyn, looking forward to seeing how far and wide we can spend a bit of Christmas cheer!