New York State Senator Steve Rhoads is proud to once again team up with We Care Blankets from April 1st through May 1st to collect yarn and blankets for children who are currently undergoing cancer treatments. This will be the second yarn and blanket drive hosted by Senator Rhoads in collaboration with We Care Blankets, the first garnering over 400,000 yards of yarn and over 200 handmade blankets!

 

We Care Blankets is a not-for-profit started in 1999 by a few people who realized the treatment for children undergoing chemotherapy was cold, difficult, and challenging for them and their families. During the intense treatment, many children get chills and that’s where the founders of We Care Blankets sprang into action with handmade, colorful blankets that serve as a wonderful gift to give to each child. Initially funded by one physician, the organization has grown exponentially, but remains committed to the mission of providing every child undergoing cancer treatment with a handcrafted blanket. Donated yarn and blankets are essential in order to continue the mission of We Care Blankets. All blankets serve as a gift of love and support - not only for the child - but for the family as well. Each and every blanket donated is personally wrapped with love by a local volunteer at a blanket wrap night and then delivered to a hospital.

 

There are two ways to take action and support the Yarn and Blanket Drive. The first is to donate yarn at participating locations (listed below). By doing so, you are providing materials for individuals to knit or crochet blankets for these children. The second way to help is by actually making a blanket yourself. All blankets and yarn must be acrylic, 100% washable, and fringe free. This ensures that the blankets are safe and easy to maintain for the hospital, children, and their families. Bright colored blankets and yarn are preferred, as they can bring a sense of joy and positivity to the children's lives. The minimum size for the blankets is 36”x36”, ensuring that they are large enough to fully swaddle the child and bring comfort and warmth.

 

This initiative aims to give a child a gift of love and warmth during the difficult time of undergoing cancer treatment. Senator Rhoads encourages everyone to participate and spread the word about this meaningful cause. He also thanks Verity Van Lines for their support in providing the collection boxes to make this drive successful.

Senator Steve Rhoads said, “It is a heartbreaking reality that far too many children battle cancer at such a young age. While medical care is essential in their fight, it is equally important that they are surrounded by comfort, compassion, and a sense of warmth during such a difficult and painful time. That’s why I am proud to partner with We Care Blankets, along with Verity Van Lines, and all of the libraries across my Senate District, to make a meaningful difference. We Care Blankets is more than just a local charity, it is a community of compassionate individuals who believe deeply in the power of small acts of kindness to uplift others. This initiative goes beyond providing blankets; it offers a tangible reminder to these children that they are not alone in their fight against cancer. Each donation, each stitch, and each act of generosity sends a message of love, strength, and support. I encourage everyone to come together, donate yarn, make blankets, and give these children a gift of love and warmth during their difficult journey.”

 

Bellmore Memorial Library (2288 Bedford Ave, Bellmore, NY 11710)

Bethpage Public Library (47 Powell Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714)

East Meadow Public Library (1886 Front St, East Meadow, NY 11554)

Farmingdale Public Library (116 Merritts Rd, Farmingdale, NY 11735)

Hicksville Public Library (169 Jerusalem Ave, Hicksville, NY 11801)

Island Trees Public Library (38 Farmedge Rd, Levittown, NY 11756)

Levittown Public Library (1 Bluegrass Ln, Levittown, NY 11756)

Merrick Library (2279 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566)

North Bellmore Public Library (1551 Newbridge Rd, North Bellmore, NY 11710)

North Merrick Public Library (1691 Meadowbrook Rd, North Merrick, NY 11566)

Plainview-Old Bethpage Library (999 Old Country Rd, Plainview, NY 11803)

Seaford Public Library (2234 Jackson Ave # A, Seaford, NY 11783)

Wantagh Public Library (3285 Park Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793)

 

For more information on Senator Rhoads’ Yarn & Blanket Drive or any legislative matter, please contact Senator Rhoads’ District Office a 516-882-0630 or rhoads@nysenate.gov.