Helping Homeless Through Knitting and Crocheting

 Thank you x 2 Karen S.  This first donation is 2 nice dark scarves and 15 cotton washcloths, (though you can't tell how many because they are stacked in the picture.  She also included some personal care items in this pouch.  But....wait, there's more

There was a 2nd pouch, a very generous donation from our friend Karen, more cotton washcloths (13) and 3 really nice knitted hats.  These hats are super warm, made with double yarn; as they are knitted on one of those cool round looms.  Very nice colors also Karen for men folk.

It's been awhile since I've talked about all the ways these wonderful cotton washcloths (knitted or crocheted) are used.  They're used by the folks living out in the elements as washcloths and dishcloths, there used at the shelters for folks when they first enter as washcloths along with personal care items, AND they're used as both dishcloths and washcloths in welcome home packets when folks transition from shelter living to their permanent housing situation.

Thank you Karen, and please keep up the good work.

**Would the person who donated red and gray socks, knitted hat and scarf please make contact.  You can email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com, leave a comment here on the blog, and or leave a note using the contact form here on the blog.**

2016 Donations:
HATS: 457-3=454
SCARVES (Gators, Infinity): 326-2=324
MITTENS: 91
SLIPPERS: 60
RAIN PONCHOS: 206
COTTON WASHCLOTHS: 236-28=208
AFGHANS: 35
SOCKS: 135

**We started the year with the number of items we had donated last year, 2016; and will subtract our donations from that.  Using the end number for 2016 as the goal for the each item.  So, as the year continues you will see numbers decrease.  Our goal is to meet and surpass the number of items donated last year.**

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.

Crocheting from the Heart Warms Homeless

Thank you Emily!  What a nice donation with crocheted mittens (see me clapping and dancing!), hats, and a scarf.  Emily's also included some hand sanitizer with her thoughtful donation.  Her hats are a variety of sizes to help warm different sized heads.  Really like the 2 tone brown one.

Thanks for being such a loyal supporter of Bridge and Beyond, Emily.  Please know how much we appreciate you and your efforts.

As always, keep up the good work.

2016 Donations:
HATS: 481-6=475
SCARVES (Gators, Infinity): 330-1=329
MITTENS: 95-4=91
SLIPPERS: 60
RAIN PONCHOS: 206
COTTON WASHCLOTHS: 236
AFGHANS: 36
SOCKS: 135

**We started the year with the number of items we had donated last year, 2016; and will subtract our donations from that.  Using the end number for 2016 as the goal for the each item.  So, as the year continues you will see numbers decrease.  Our goal is to meet and surpass the number of items donated last year.**

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.

The Power of Friendship

Look what a group of friends can accomplish.  This donation is a collective effort from 5 friends: Nikki S, Linda S, Jason D, Christina D, and Laurin A.  How cool is that.  We have a wonderful collection of personal care items, toothpaste, toothbrushes, rain poncho's, combs, and soap AND some beautiful scarves both knitted and crocheted.  Nikki orchestrated this wonderful donation for the benefit of Bridge and Beyond and hand delivered it to my house.  Let's give this group of friends special kudos for using their friendship to do for others.  I LOVE this.  It once again shows the power of one, the power of spreading the word and what together people can accomplish.

Thank you all for your thoughtfulness, and your giving spirit.  What a special group of friends you are.  Please keep up the good work.  YOU ALL ROCK!

2016 Donations:
HATS: 506
SCARVES: 337-4=333
MITTENS: 108
SLIPPERS: 60
RAIN PONCHOS: 211-5=206
COTTON WASHCLOTHS: 236
AFGHANS: 36
SOCKS: 135

**We started the year with the number of items we had donated last year, 2016; and will subtract our donations from that.  Using the end number for 2016 as the goal for the each item.  So, as the year continues you will see numbers decrease.  Our goal is to meet and surpass the number of items donated last year.**

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.

Donating Socks Warm Feet for the Homeless

Thank you Sarah S for this thoughtful donation of personal care items, crocheted cotton washcloths, and socks!  I rushed these socks over to Rae the very next day after opening the box because the temps have been bitter cold and wet and socks are sooooo appreciated by the folks that live out in the elements.  Rae was thrilled to get them and was putting together packs to take with her when she made her rounds with the meals.  Perfect timing.  Wet cold feet are miserable so having dry, clean socks to change into is HUGE!

The personal care items and cotton washcloths are always a hit as well.  Please keep up the good work, and many thanks for all you do.

We have a few more donations to count in with our numbers for 2016, so please check back in.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:   +38(Look we've past last years mark)
Scarves:  +174 (We've past last years mark)
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers: 15
Slippers:   14 (getting close to last years number)
Rain Poncho's:   +106 (We past last years mark)
Cotton Washcloths:  230 -12 =218
Afghans:  1 (wow folks, we're almost even with last year, so let's see how far beyond it we can go)
Socks:   82 -16 =66
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:  +2  YIPPEE, we've past last years mark!
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc +2
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted

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.

Crocheting to Warm Those in Need

Thank you Emily K for this thoughtful donation.  She has crocheted scarves, headbands, infinity scarves, cotton washcloths....AND has included personal care items with her donation.  All wonderful items to help warm those in need here in Central Ohio.  Folks, we've had days barely above zero lately, we've had snow, we've had freezing rain.  People without a roof over their heads, people living in temporary shelters need our help. Our hand made (knitted, loomed, crocheted or sewed) items really can make a difference.  Not only do they help keep someone physically warmer, they give them emotional warm.    Knowing someone took time to make something for them is indeed special.

Please keep up the good work folks.  You are all so very much appreciated.

If time is tight and you're not able to knit or crochet right now..........or if you're someone who doesn't knit or crochet but would like to help.  PLEASE, scroll back to the previous post with information about a Go Fund Me Page and help feed someone hungry.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:   +11 +2= +13(Look we've past last years mark)
Scarves:  +171 +3 -+174 (We've past last years mark)
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers: 42
Slippers:   16
Rain Poncho's:   +106 (We past last years mark)
Cotton Washcloths:  244 -4=240
Afghans:  1 (wow folks, we're almost even with last year, so let's see how far beyond it we can go)
Socks:   82
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:  0 +2 = +2  YIPPEE, we've past last years mark!
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc +2
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted

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.

Collecting Personal Care Items for Homeless

Collecting personal care items when traveling is an easy way to help those in need.  You can collect personal care items like soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, and lotion from almost any hotel.  It's a great way for those who don't knit or crochet to help.  Hubby and I got back a few weeks ago from Park City, Utah and managed to collect the above which also included coffee, creamer and sugar etc.  I always save the coffee from the room (as we buy our own brand) and Rae is able to use this to make hot coffee to go with her hot meals on Sat's mornings.

Please ask your friends and neighbors to collect personal care items for you in their travels.  Personal care items are needed all year long, not just in cold weather.  Personal care items are also needed for a variety of circumstances.  Those folks living in the elements need personal items, those getting a night in a shelter need them and those families transitioning from shelter to permanent living arrangements need them.  

Please spread the word about personal care items.  Other items always appreciated are: chap stick, female products, shaving products, toothpaste and brushes, and deodorant.

Thank you for reading my blog doing what you can to help.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     37
Scarves:   44
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  63
Slippers:   36
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  260
Afghans:  1 (wow folks, we're almost even with last year, so let's see how far beyond it we can go)
Socks:   102
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   6
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0 +1
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

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.

Crocheted Warmth for Homeless in Need

Thank you Emily K for this thoughtful and generous donation of crocheted goodies for Ohio's Homeless.  Emily has crocheted cotton washcloths, mittens (some fingerless, some with mitten cover), and a scarf and hat.  She also included always needed socks and personal care items.  Something here for everyone.

I love the nice dark colors so suitable for our folks living out in the elements and those without easy access to laundry facilities.  

Thank you Emily for your on going support of the cause here on Bridge and Beyond.  Please know how appreciated you are, and how much you truly help those that need it.

Keep up the good work.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     38 -1 =37
Scarves:  45 -1= 44
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  66 -3 =63
Slippers:   36
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  269 -9 =260
Afghans:  1 (wow folks, we're almost even with last year, so let's see how far beyond it we can go)
Socks:   108 -6 =102
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   7 -1=6
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0 +1
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

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.

Donating Afghans Gives both Physical Warmth and Emotional Warmth

 Thank you Christina D.  These photo's were taken when I opened her donation (hand delivered by our friend Nikki S), but before I laundered and blocked the ghans.  A big granny square which will be a nice child size blanket to snuggle up in.  Christina's been busy folks.  Take a Look.

 A variety of granny's here stitched together and then edged in mint green.  This ghan is also a nice child sized ghan, but could also work as a lapghan for a teen.  Christina and her crochet hook must not sleep, because......

here's yet another child size ghan.  Kids having a ghan to curl up with will not only warm them physically, but give them quite an important emotional lift.  Kids have a lot to deal with when families are homeless or in transition, so being able to have a "special" blanket of their own is really comforting.  Thank you Christina for your thoughtfulness.

My note also says there were personal care items and 5 cotton washcloths, but something seems to have happened to the picture that shows that part of her donation.  Sorry about that Christina.  All these items have already been delivered, or I would go back and try to retake the photo.

Thank you for your generosity, please keep up the good work.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     43 -5 =38
Scarves: 63 -2 =61
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  66
Slippers:   36
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  274 -5 =269
Afghans:  4 -3 =1 (wow folks, we're almost even with last year, so let's see how far beyond it we can go)
Socks:   108
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   7
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0 +1
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

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.

Special Delivery for Homeless

Thank you Nikki S for this thoughtful donation of goodies.  Nikki's crocheted hats, scarves, and a shawl.  She's also included personal care items in her generous donation.  Having a warm hat and scarf really is important in the fight to stay warm when you're homeless.

Special thanks Nikki for hand delivering your donation, as well as your friend Christina's donation.

The weather has indeed turned making donations very much needed.  We still have sunny pretty days, but nights and early mornings have gotten cool and it won't be long before we'll have frost on the ground.  So please to have people like Nikki helping those in need here on Bridge and Beyond.  You all are so very much appreciated.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     43 -5 =38
Scarves: 63 -2 =61
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  66
Slippers:   36
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  274
Afghans:  4
Socks:   108
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   7
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0 +1
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

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.

A Generous Donations from Florida Helps Ohio's Homeless

Thank you Sandra R!  Sandra has been a long time supporter of Bridge and Beyond.  She's very generous and very talented.  Look at this wonderful donation.  Remember folks, you can always click on the pictures in the blog to see them better...make them large in order to see details etc.  She's knitted 20 awesome hats in lots of different sizes and colors, and styles.  Truly something to please a variety of people.  Some hats are suitable for men, some women, and some can easily be either or.  She's also included 2 nice warm scarves and some personal care items.  

Special thanks also Sandra for tagging all your hats with size!  AND of course for including the sunshine in box from Florida.  Parts of Florida have had a time of it with Matthew, and still Sandra sends love and warmth to our homeless Ohioans in need.

Hugs for all you do!  Please know how much you're appreciated.

**For anyone new to the blog, the counting below maybe confusing.  When 2016 began, we started with the number of items donated the previous year and are counting down in hopes of hitting and surpasses the number of items donated last year.**


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     74-20=54
Scarves: 69-2=67
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  66
Slippers:   36
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  274
Afghans:  4
Socks:   108
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   7
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

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.

Crocheting Warmth to Help Ohio's Homeless

Thank you Emily K for this wonderful donation of crocheted hat, scarf, and headband.  I LOVE the green, it's such a good color for either male or female.  It's also a good color in that it's dark enough it doesn't show dirt.  Emily has also included some personal care items,

Thank you Emily for your thoughtfulness.  Please keep up the good work.

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     123 -1-122
Scarves:  94 -1=93
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  66
Slippers:   40
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  281
Afghans:  8
Socks:   124
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8 -1=7
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Hotel Toiletries Help the Homeless

Thank you Darling Hubby!  Hubby was recently on a business trip and remembered to grab all the toiletries in the hotels.  When we travel together, I do that; but didn't think to remind him before he left or when I chatted with him on the phone.  So, I was pleasantly surprised when he arrived home and handed me a bag of goodies.  Personal care items are needed and used and appreciated by all the shelters, and the folks living out in the elements.

Suggest to your friends and neighbors to knab the hotel toiletries.  They add up and what a simple way to make a difference.  Also, it's a great way for someone who doesn't knit or crochet to lend a helping hand.

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     134
Scarves:  94
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  74
Slippers:   40
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  281
Afghans:  8
Socks:   124
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Generous Crocheted Donation Helps Ohio's Homeless

 Thank you Gail B, long time supporter of Bridge and Beyond for this thoughtful and generous donation.  Gail has included some nice hand cream.  Something needed all year long.  Think how chapped your hands get both winter and summer...while you're inside.  Think how it must be for those exposed to the elements outside, and or those with limited indoor time.

 LOVE LOVE, these nice dark colors for scarves, as they work well for both men and women.  They don't show the dirt which truly matters, as so many even if they are in a housing situation often have very limited launder facilities.  These scarves are nicely sized also for either adult men or women.

AND....such a fun afghan.  Bright lime green and navy...giant granny square style.  The colors are prettier than they show here in the picture.  It was a dark day when I took the photograph and while I did edit a bit on the computer, it's still not quite the real color...but closer.

Many thanks Gail and please keep up the good work.  By the way folks Gail has some exciting news.  Grandchild #4 is on the way....that's always exciting.  Congrats to the whole family Gail.

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:      153
Scarves:  107 -8 =99
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  75
Slippers:  64
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  298
Afghans:     9 -1 = 8
Socks:   124
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Crocheted Warm Items Help Homeless

Thank you Emily K for this thoughtful donation of crocheted goodies.  As you can see, Emily has been busy crocheting hats, scarves, mittens, and fingerless gloves!  You all know how excited I get when we get mittens.  Really nice Emily.  Love how many different head sizes you've made warm with this donation.  Particularly like the hat on the right with warm orange and earth stripes!

Emily has also included some personal care items, AND batteries.  Folks batteries are always needed by those living out in the elements for things like flashlights; though it's not something I've asked for in the past.  Batteries are heavy and I was concerned about the weight issues and it making postage more costly; but.........they are indeed an item that is needed and appreciated.

Many thanks Emily, please keep up the good work.



2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:       200 -8 =192
Scarves:   115 -2 =113
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:   79 -4 = 75
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  316
Afghans:    12
Socks:   184
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Knitting and Donating Helps Others

Thank you Sue S for your on going support of Bridge and Beyond and the Homeless here in Central Ohio.  Sue's been busy knitted cotton wash cloths and scarves.  Please click to see the details of the cotton wash cloths...the designs very nice.  AND I particularly like the gray one on the right with the diagonal design...what stitch is that?  She's also included personal care items and nice soft warm scarves.  Not sure I've seen that blue variegated yarn before, really like the color mix.

Many thanks and please keep up the good work Sue.  Also, I always appreciate you're taking the time to visit and make comments here on the blog!

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:      234
Scarves:  121 -3 =118
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:   79
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:  325 -4 =321
Afghans:    13
Socks:   184
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Knitting and Crocheting Helps Homeless

Thank you Emily K for this awesome donation.  Emily has knitted and crocheted a nice variety of goodies here, hats, scarves, mittens, and fingerless gloves/wrist warmers.  She's also included some personal care items in her donation for Ohio's Homeless.  Partial to the green and blue goodies, always great colors for either men or women.

Many thanks Emily, please keep up the good work.  We here at Bridge and Beyond appreciate you and I know the folks receiving your warm goodies do as well.

Yes, it's Spring...yes the grass has turned green, and yes we have flowers popping up....But, it's still cold, and wet and people are very much still in need folks, so please keep your hands busy knitting and crocheting for others.

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:      251 -7 =244
Scarves:  122 -1 =121
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  86 -4 = 82
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +106
Cotton Washcloths:   347
Afghans:    14
Socks:   184
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Donations for Homeless

Thank you Theresa A for this thoughtful donation of goodies to aid the homeless and others in need here in Central Ohio.  Quite a nice assortment of personal care items, cotton washcloths, socks, rain poncho's and hot pads.  Folks click to see the difference.  Notice the 5 pads on the left (blue-green, red-white and blue, mixed blue and brown, solid green and mixed red-white-brown), they are double thickness and will make a nice addition to the welcome packs Homeless Families puts together for families moving from shelter living into a permanent housing situation.

AND, also note in the lower right corner, the little blue and white packages.  Folks this is a really good idea....I never thought of it, but Theresa has included 2 emergency blankets!  I'm going to talk to Rae, our friend who feeds the homeless on Sat mornings to ask if this is something I should add to our list of things to collect.  I think it sounds like a real winner.  Good thinking on your part Theresa.  Stay tuned folks.

Many thanks Theresa, please keep up the good work.  Many people will benefit from your thoughtfulness!


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     260
Scarves: 132
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  86
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +95 +11=+106
Cotton Washcloths:  353 -6 = 347
Afghans:    14
Socks:  189 -5 = 184
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Blue Sky

 Well this afghan, Blue Sky is quite timely, given all the storms around the country and high winds during this spring one day and winter the next season.  Blue Sky reminds us, after storms the sky does clear, and things do get better.  Somehow it seems perfect to me, and as I said very timely.  We had quite a storm here last night, high winds and lots of rain; but as I look out the window now.........Blue Skies do prevail.  And doesn't that metaphor seem appropriate for our homeless families?

  Thank you Sarah S for assembling this afghan.  This ghan is made of many different styles and sizes of squares and rectangle...some knitted and some crocheted.  She's edged in brown and joined to make a wonderful welcome home present for our families at Homeless Families Foundation as they transition from shelter living to their permanent housing situation.  Many thanks Sarah!  I truly appreciate your help with the backlog of squares.

Additionally, Sarah has included lots of personal care items, always appreciated and needed along with cotton washcloths.  Thank you again for your on going support of Bridge and Beyond and helping Ohio's Homeless.

Keep up the good work.


2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:     260
Scarves: 132
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  86
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +95
Cotton Washcloths:  361 -8 =353
Afghans:   15 -1 = 14
Socks:  189
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Donations Help Those in Need

Many thanks Gail B for this awesome donation of hats, scarves, and personal care items.  WOW!  Take a look folks, a wonderful variety of hat sizes and colors and nice big scarves, perfect to wrap up for warmth which is so needed.  Additional thanks for tagging each hat with the size  That saves enormous time both here at my house, and at the various shelters by the volunteers.  It also means items get to the right people quicker.

Gail has been a long time supporter and friend here on Bridge and Beyond.  We certainly value all the love and time you've put into your various donations over the years.

Thank you, and please keep up the good work.

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:    277 -17 = 260
Scarves: 139 -7 = 132
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  86
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:   +95
Cotton Washcloths:  362 -1 =361
Afghans:   15
Socks:  189
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:   8
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.  Likewise note we've definitely reached our goal for rain poncho's.  Rain ponchos's serve many purposes so we will probably still need some....down the line, but not for awhile.

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.

Knitted Cotton Washcloths Always Helpful for Homeless

Thank you Christine D, fellow Ohioan for this thoughtful donation of knitted washcloths.  I LOVE the red-green mix.  Not sure I've seen that cotton before.  It's dark enough for the men folk!  Christine has also included a good supply of personal care items.  Cotton washcloths and personal care items are truly used all year long, doesn't matter what the weather is they are needed and appreciated by both those living in the elements, and those living in shelters.

Please keep up the good work Christine.  Special thanks for delivering them to my door.

**Still looking for a Jane B from Minnesota (without contact, no further donations will be accepted)

2016 DONATIONS:
Hats:   308
Scarves:  150
Mittens/Gloves/Wrist Warmers:  97
Slippers: 77
Rain Poncho's:  105
Cotton Washcloths:  411 -43 =368
Afghans:   16
Socks:  189
Cowls/Hoody Combo's, headbands:  9
Shawls and shrugs, ponchos, sweaters & vests etc 0
Misc: items like personal care, headbands etc and things don't fit into above categories aren't counted.

Please note the category of shawl, shrugs, ponchos etc has reached our little goal, same as last year of 1.........but please please please.........don't let that stop you from making more of these items.

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.