The Okotoks chapter of Victoria’s Quilts Canada, which is celebrating 20 years of service to the Foothills area and southern Alberta this spring, is on the lookout for new members.
The organization, part of a cross-Canada network of community-minded quilters, produces handmade quilts for people living with cancer in the hope of bringing them physical and spiritual comfort.
Treasurer Debra Graham said the Okotoks chapter acts as a hub for groups in High River, Nanton and two in south Calgary, which number about 85 men and women.
The quilters have gifted over 4,400 quilts over the last two decades.
“We welcome all quilters to join us,” said Graham, adding the chapter is especially in need of those who longarm quilts or who have administrative skills.
The Okotoks chapter meets on a monthly basis, typically on the third Tuesday of the month, at Rumpled Quilt Skins where members are able to discuss projects and work on their craft. Much of the actual quilting is done at home as time allows.
Okotoks chapter chairperson Jacquie Rhodes said Linda Freund from Rumpled Quilt Skins has been a mentor and supporter for 20 years and, more recently, Tracey from The Joy of Quilting has come onboard to assist the High River group.
Thanks to donations from those who request quilts and proceeds from an annual craft sale, materials are covered, so there’s no cost to members to produce the quilts.
Graham said quilters get a sense of satisfaction out of comforting others who are going through a difficult time.
“That's what we hope it does," she said. "Down deep we know that’s what it’s bringing because most of us have had people that have had cancer and when they got their quilts, they were most appreciative. They feel the comfort that surrounds them.”
“A quilt not only warms the body, it warms the heart and the quilts are a warm hug for someone going through a difficult time,” added Rhodes. “Those making the quilts are encouraged as well. It is a pleasure to work with such talented and generous people.”
Quilts are sent free of charge and hand delivered whenever possible. Everyone who attends the cancer clinic in High River is offered a quilt. You can request a quilt through the national office at victoriasquiltscanada.com or locally through [email protected].
“They’re beautiful quilts,” said Graham. “There's a lot of ways to put a quilt together and fabrics to use; it’s up to the individual quilter how to design them.”
Started in Ottawa in 1999, Victoria’s Quilts Canada has expanded with chapters across the country and now delivers in the neighbourhood of 6,000 quilts to those living with cancer annually. The organization has donated more than 93,000 quilts since its inception.
Those interested in joining one of the local groups can email [email protected].
