ALWAYS THERE SEWING CIRCLE BRIGHTENS THE HOLIDAYS FOR VETERANS
If you listen closely, you might just hear the whir of sewing machines at the Always There Adult Day Program in Ellenville. That’s because Peg, Leni, Mary and Connie are busy sewing patchwork lap quilts out of recycled corduroy, blue jeans and sheeting that will keep 15 lucky veterans warm this winter at the Castle Point Veterans Hospital in Castle Point, New York.
These feisty women—many of whom are lifelong sewers—are determined to make a difference and are doing it with skills they learned at their mothers’ knees. Despite their advancing age and infirmity, they understand the importance of giving back to the community. Their efforts will brighten the holidays for these elderly gentlemen who served our country well.
Assisting the ladies in this effort are Bonnie Hull, who donated one of the sewing machines and some of the quilting materials and Barbara Stone and Jennie Brunbelow, who also donated material. Site Director Sharon Fuller oversees the project assisted by consultant Sylvia Guiliano, volunteer Mindy Pesante and some children who volunteered last summer from the YWCA. Carol Distel and the Cook Taylor Post 111 American Legion Auxiliary in Ellenville will distribute the quilts in holiday packages between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“We wanted to give our registrants a project that would not only engage them in a creative activity, but would also give them the opportunity to give back to others in a meaningful way,†said Yvette Armstead, Always There’s Adult Day Program Director. “We are thrilled that they came up with this terrific idea to brighten the holidays for our local veterans. And, it also gives Always There the chance to partner with another local community organization, an opportunity we are always looking for.â€
Always There and the American Legion Auxiliary hope to expand the program over time so that soldiers serving overseas can also have a little piece of home for the holidays. In the meantime, the sewers are on to another project: making eye glass cases and pocket holders that attach to walkers. The good work continues!
Always There assists residents of all ages of the mid-Hudson Valley to regain optimum health, to remain at home and to prevent premature and recurring institutionalization by providing home care, health care and individual quality of life services in the community. For more information, call Always There at (845) 339-6683 or visit www.alwaystherehomecare.org.
