08/04/2026
SOMC Volunteer Services is so proud to have volunteer knitters and crocheters who graciously donate their time and talents through our Knit for Hope program, creating beautiful hats and blankets for our patients.
This afternoon, after receiving another collection of blankets that were ready to be distributed, I placed them on a cart and began visiting patient rooms. In each room, I introduced myself and shared the story behind our volunteer knitting program. One by one, patients smiled as they accepted these beautiful handmade gifts, offering heartfelt thanks as I quietly slipped back into the hallway.
Then I reached my last room. After I explained why I was there, the patient looked at me with the most sincere expression and softly stated, “But… I don’t have any money.” I smiled and assured her that no money was needed. I explained that one of our volunteers had lovingly made the blanket especially for her, and that it was hers to keep.
She immediately wrapped the blanket around her arms, held it close, and with tears in her eyes thanked me over and over. Then she looked at me and said, “I love this blanket… and I love you.” She even asked me to bend down so she could give me a hug.
As I walked back down the hallway, I couldn’t help but smile. I may have been the one delivering the blanket, but my volunteers are the ones who wrapped that patient in comfort, kindness, and hope. Their hands stitched every row, but their hearts are woven into every single blanket they create.
Today, one blanket warmed far more than a patient. It reminded me that the greatest gifts aren’t always measured in dollars. Sometimes they’re measured in yarn… in time… in compassion… and in the simple reminder that someone cared enough to make something with their own two hands, just for a stranger.
To every member of our Knit for Hope program… thank you. Today, your stitches became a hug 🖤.
- Jenny Lavender
