Crafters as a group are some of the most giving people I've ever met. Put out the call for supplies, help or even finished goods and they come running. The sites listed here are doing great works to help others who are in need or need a bit of support to get through the day.
All the website owners have also included their favorite crafty tips on the craft their group specializes in making.
This organization provides crochet and knit items for American servicemen and women overseas. The Hendersonville, NC chapter is always looking for volunteers, yarn and monetary donations. Website also links to other chapters - find the one closest to you to help support our troops.
When creating knit and crochet items for our servicemen and women be sure to use washable and breathable yarns. Use of wool is not recommended as it is prone to shrinkage and can cause skin irritation.
Care Wear started in 1991 as a personal project to provide apparel for premature and low birthweight infants who were patients in several hospitals in the Washington D.C. area.
Care Wear has grown steadily and has expanded to also provide chemo hats with braids for teens/preteens, afghans for patients of all ages, medical dolls to explain surgical procedures, toys for children in ER's and anything else that the various participating hospitals see a need for. Many of the items they regularly provide are included among the wonderful selection of sewing, knitting and crochet patterns.
The site also contains a listing of hospitals and organizations that Care Wear is already assisting. Adresses, phone numbers, points of contact, and specific item requests are listed.
Pattern sizes are approximate. When knitting or crocheting items for Care Wear or any other group helping infants, keep your tension loose so the garments will have lots of stretch.