Donated Quilts Warm Family Promise Families

Garden State Quilters, a New Jersey group that has been in existence for nearly 40 years, meets monthly to - you guessed it – make quilts. At the beginning of the year, members receive a starter kit that contains one square of fabric from which to begin a quilt of their own design.

Kris Dale, who oversees the philanthropic arm of the club known as the Sunshine Group, says, “Quilts are usually made to be given away. We make quilts for charities and nonprofits like hospitals and veterans’ organizations.”

And now, Family Promise.

Last week, Family Promise-Union County guests and graduates were the recipients of these handmade treasures. Executive Director Geleen Donovan says families were thrilled to receive such beautiful and personal gifts.

“A handmade quilt is a wonderful way for families in our emergency shelter program to take something familiar from one host site to the next,” she explains. “And families already in housing were thrilled to receive such a beautiful, unique, and useful household item.”

Quilts are among the many items Family Promise-Union County supporters provide for families in need. Clothing, school supplies, toys, household goods, even automobiles – the list is endless, and such donations make a significant difference in the lives of families struggling to regain independence.

Donovan credits volunteers and supporters as the backbone of Family Promise.

“Their selfless dedication opens the door to lasting transformation. They often become an extended family to the parents and children we serve. A lovely yet practical keepsake like these quilts is a way for families to hold Family Promise in their hearts even after they’ve moved on,” she adds.

Quilters often tell a story through their meticulous handiwork, which can be months in the making. Other times a quilt’s motif is color combinations or geometric patterns. Regardless, each one is a unique and functional piece of art.

Says Donovan, “For our families, these quilts may come to represent their own stories – stories of challenges, determination, and ultimately, success. That’s a meaningful gift to offer someone.”

Founded in Summit, New Jersey, in 1988, Family Promise is the leading national nonprofit addressing the issue of family homelessness. Comprised of more than 200 affiliates in 43 states, Family Promise engages 200,000 volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of families in need. Its innovative approach keeps families together and gives them the skills and tools for lasting independence. The organization serves more than 90,000 individuals each year. Family Promise-Union County in Elizabeth, NJ, serves families in Union County. For more information about Family Promise, go to www.familypromise.org.