After much discussion and wanting to do something this holiday season to honor and remember Jerry, we decided to give everyone some "warmth" with handmade blankets. The thought was to deliver them to patients in the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids hospitals Cancer Units. We were disappointed to find out that we couldn't directly donate items to patients in Cancer units due to privacy and confidentially matters. Completely understandable and the last thing we want to do is cause anyone any undue stress during the holidays while dealing with something unimaginable.
So after further discussion, we have decided to create and donate blankets to a local homeless shelter in the Iowa City area instead.
These are people who are down on their luck, maybe feeling discouraged, alone and saddened at this time of year. We thought what better way to make a difference in Jerry's memory than by giving someone who TRULY needs a gift this time of year. We are hoping to make as many blankets as possible to hand out at the shelter. We are having a family friend make a patch to put on each blanket that will have Jerry's motto "Who You Are Matters, What You Do Counts". Our hope is that when people look at that statment, it will give them hope that things can get better and that they do indeed matter.
A small gathering is planned for Friday, December 11th in Iowa City (see details below) to hand make the blankets.
We are planning on donating the blankets on Saturday, December 26th. In addition to handing out blankets of love, we hope to assist in serving meals and bringing some additional joy to those at the shelter.
Not all of the blankets have to be made by us. We would gladly accept any new or gently used blankets that anyone would like to donate to the cause. If you are unable to attend the blanket making or donation day, but would still like to participate, any and all blankets or additional donations will be gladly accepted.
We have approached Joanne's Fabrics and Wal-Mart for donations of fabric or discounted pricing for our purpose. Joanne's donated $50 plus 10% off of Fabrics, we are waiting to hear back from Wal-Mart regarding a grant from them. It is looking good as this would be for a non-profit organization.
If you would like to participate at the Jerry'z Night of Blanket Making, we would love to see you! The Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Iowa City has donated a conference room for us.
DATE: FRIDAY, December 11
TIME: 6:00 pm - ??
WHERE: Sheraton Hotel, Downtown Iowa City
The night will be festive with holiday music, hot cocoa, cider and snacks. Laughter will fill the air and "Jerry's Elves" will be in full force.
If you have any additional questions regarding Friday night or the distribution night on the 26th, please contact Tanya Rogers at (319) 545-8189.
If you would like to send donations, blankets, etc- please send them to:
Tanya Rogers
616 Red Bird Run
Tiffin, IA 52340
(319) 545-8189
Thank you to every one. May you have a blessed and safe holiday season with your loved ones. You all remain in our hearts and prayers.
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WHat a beautiful idea!! Jerry would be so proud of all of you! He is surely smiling down upon you with much happiness and pride at how heartfelt you all are in honoring his memory!!
ReplyDeleteHe has truly instilled in all of us "WHO YOU ARE MATTERS,WHAT YOU DO COUNTS"