New York State Senator Steve Rhoads Partners with We Care Blankets to Launch Yarn & Blanket Drive for Kids with Cancer

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads is proud to team up with We Care Blankets from April 10th through May 10th to collect yarn and blankets for children who are currently undergoing cancer treatments. 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 bold 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 Rhoads said, “It is a heartbreaking reality that many children have to endure such a difficult and painful journey fighting cancer at such a young age. While medical treatments are crucial in their fight against cancer, it is also important to provide them with love, comfort, and warmth during this chaotic time. That’s why I am proud to partner with We Care Blankets as well as libraries and fabric stores across my Senate District to take action and make a difference. We Care Blankets is more than just a local charity, it is a movement of positive people who truly believe in the power of small acts of kindness to make a big difference in the lives of others. Partnering with them on this initiative goes beyond just providing physical blankets for the children. It is a symbol of love and care, showing them that they are not alone in their battle against cancer. Every small act of kindness can make a big impact in a child's life, and this initiative is a perfect opportunity to do just that. I encourage everyone to come together, donate yarn, make blankets, and give these children a gift of love and warmth during their difficult journey.” 

Tamara Baker, Founder of We Care Blankets, said, “For over 22 years, We Care Blankets has embraced ill children with comfort and love through the warmth of handmade blankets. As we launch one of the largest collections we have ever embarked on, we are so grateful for Senator Rhoads’ partnership and steadfast support on this Yarn and Blanket Drive as it will allow us to continue our mission of providing blankets to children with cancer at hospitals across America. Without caring volunteers, benefactors, and talented crafters we couldn’t fulfill this mission. At We Care Blankets, our first love is children. With the support of Senator Rhoads and the community, we are excited to launch this drive to help children and make the journey of their illness just a little better. Let's make a difference for children together and bring a smile to the faces of those in need.” 

There are 12 drop off locations for residents to drop off yarn and blankets: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Needlepaint Nook (2110 Merrick Mall, Merrick, NY 11566) 

JOANN Fabric & Crafts (580 Old Country Rd, Westbury, NY 11590)

Senator Rhoads District Office (4236 Merrick Road, First Floor, Massapequa, NY 11758)

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.