How to make... a difference

While we are all in the spirit of giving and gifting, it's a good time to recognize some of the ways that knitting and crocheting can bring help and hope to others, during the holiday season and throughout the year. Your talents really can effect change and make a positive difference for the world!

Knitted Knockers
For women who've undergone a mastectomy, traditional breast prostheses are often expensive and uncomfortable. Knitted Knockers are handmade alternatives, knitted and crocheted in soft fibers by caring volunteers. The Knitted Knockers website offers free patterns and guidelines, and lists the addresses and collection points for completed Knockers.

The Pussyhat Project
Knit, crochet, or sew a pink hat for the Women's March on Washington D.C., on January 21, 2017. Organizers would love to have over a million pink hats, one on every pledged marcher, to demonstrate solidarity and support for women's and families' rights.

Mother Bear Project
The Mother Bear Project sends handmade teddy bears to children in developing countries, whose lives have been affected by HIV/AIDS. You can purchase a knit or crochet bear pattern; proceeds from pattern sales cover the cost of shipping bears to their destinations.

Bags of Love
Bags of Love is focused on helping children in Lane County facing difficult life situations (neglect, abuse, poverty or homelessness). Bags, created and assembled by volunteers, include blankets, clothing, and toys, to create a sense of safety and security for the recipients. Handmade items needed for the bags include washable hats, mittens, scarves, and blankets for children from birth through 17 years old.