Blankets of Love

Blankets of Love needs you! This is a ministry to provide free blankets to those who suffer each winter in our community in Cowley County, KS.

It began with the courage high school student and his honesty: too cold to sleep well at night, he was falling asleep in class. It began with the love of a teacher who noticed his struggle and remedied the situation, providing blankets for his family.

In response to that event and the dire need of those trying to sleep in frigid temperatures, this blanket ministry began. A blanket can mean a good night's sleep. A blanket provides comfort, both physical and emotional. The gift of a blanket tells someone they matter and that others care.

This is the second year for Grace Episcopal and Trinity Episcopal's Blankets of Love Ministry. Last year our churches gave out 1,000 blankets in Cowley County, Kansas over one weekend. Through the severe cold of last winter, so many people were able to wrap up, stay warmer, and be comforted knowing other people care about them.

As winter's cold is approaching, please join us in helping others stay warm. During the winter, the student's family kept the thermostat below 60 degrees - only as "high" as 59 degrees during the coldest nights. Warm blankets made such a difference in their lives, and will do so for so many of others.

All blankets are new. All money donated goes to the purchase of blankets that are given as gifts, free. If a person needs 2 blankets, we provide 2. If a family needs 12 blankets, we provide 12.

One man spoke of being cold and not being able to get warm. He was offered a second blanket, and with tears in his eyes and a tremble in his voice he said, "I can have two?" The need is great. These gifts are so appreciated.

$10 purchases a new, full/queen, warm fleece blanket, $5 a Sherpa throw-size for younger children, and $2 for a baby blanket.

Our blanket distribution is in early November. We must pay for the blankets by October 29. Please know every donation helps - every donation greatly appreciated.

Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, this ministry is an expression of that love.