In 2013 we donated a total of 1053 hats. The following year, 2014...971 (81 less), and this year, 2015 ...468 (503 less than last year, and 585 less than 2013).
Here's the HAT TAB, with lots of information about colors, sizes, fibers that make good hats for the homeless, as well as some patterns you might like to try. PLEASE label all hats with size.
In 2013 we donated 666 scarves. The next year 2014 ....590 (76 less), and this past year, 2015 196 (394 less, 470 less than in 2013).
Here's the SCARF TAB with all the information you need regarding the sizing, colors and more.
In 2013 we donated 281 pairs of socks and in 2014 we donated 199 (82 less). In 2015 we donated slightly more 201 (2 more than in 2014, but 80 less than in 2013. Socks are not handmade as our other items are, they are store bought and always needed. They are needed all year long, unlike the hats and scarves which might not be needed in summer months.
In 2013 we donated 55 wonderful afghans to families as they transition from shelter living to a permanent housing situation. The following year 2014, we donated 23 less (32), and this past year 2015 we donated 24 (8 less than in 2014 and 31 less than 2013.
Information about afghans is found HERE
2013 we donated 153 pairs of slippers, in 2014 there were 121 (32 less), and in 2015 there were 16 less (105, which is 48 less than 2013. The slipper tab is HERE
Rain Poncho's is another item probably used all year long, like socks. Obviously it too is store bought and not handmade. In 2013 we donated 213, in 2014 there were 61 (152 less) and in 2015 we had 105 which is 44 MORE than the previous year and 108 less than 2013. Rain poncho's can be purchased almost anywhere. We donate the light weight ones that are folded in a small package which makes then very portable for the folks in need.
Mittens.......an item that's always in demand, harder to make then our hats and scarves and therefore a challenge to make for many of us. The Mitten Tab is HERE
In 2013 we were able to donate 300 pairs, in 2014 we had 170 less (donated 130), and in 2015 we donated 123 just 7 less than the previous year, and 177 less than in 2013.
Cotton Washcloths, a very versatile item is used as a washcloth and a dishcloth. It's used by folks living in the elements, and folks in shelters and is also included in welcome home packs as folks transition from shelter living to a permanent housing situation. In 2013 we donated 577, in 2014 there 243 less (334 donated), and in 2015 we donated 454 which is 120 MORE than the previous year and 123 less than in 2013. The tab for cotton cloths is HERE
We seem to be donating less in almost every category in these last few years. Yes, that's true and disappointing, but let's not loose sight of what we have accomplished and that everyone who helps makes an important difference to someone. Charities go through cycles. I've seen this happen here on the net often. I saw it happen before I started this charity, Bridge and Beyond back in December of 2008. People find other charities they want to support and so move on, people have physical and or financial difficulties which keeps them from continuing to support a cause. We have a larger group of non bloggers donating than we did in other years, and perhaps less of a core group than when Bridge and Beyond began. Likewise, we have more new people donating all the time, so that is growth outward.
Let's hope 2016 gives us the ability and time to help as many people as we can. May each of you extend your donations and or help by spreading the word of the need. Please do what you can and know you are appreciated and you do matter.
Thank you!
Please pop in often, as your visits help the blog's placement in search engines which makes it easier for us to attract new pairs of helping hands. Donations from Nikki S, Deb D, Linda O, Jason D, Sue S, and Patty C pending to start off our donations for 2016.
All donations regardless of size and number are valued. All donations are appreciated. The Power of One is awesome, and when we work together The Power of One becomes The Power of Many.
