Project Linus Chapter Donates over 900 Blankets to Local Children

Without your donation, some stories vanish. Support Decorah News. DECORAH — The local chapter of Project Linus of Northeast Iowa has just passed a milestone of giving! They have distributed The Northeast Iowa chapter of Project Linus has delivered more than 900 blankets to local children since the chapter began in 2019. Project Linus' mission is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized or otherwise in need through new, handmade, washable blankets and afghans crafted by volunteer "blanketeers." "Our local blanketeers are so generous," chapter coordinator Elise Skellenger said. "They keep our chapter well-stocked with a wide variety of blankets. We accept new, handmade blankets in child-friendly colors and patterns that are at least 36 by 36 inches — the rest is up to the blanketeer. Blankets can be tied fleece, quilted, sewn, knit, crocheted and more. I love seeing the creativity and talent of our community through the blankets that come through our organization." Project Linus works with partner organizations to distribute blankets throughout the region. Blankets have been delivered to local hospitals, domestic abuse shelters, foster care programs, schools and law enforcement agencies. The Northeast Iowa chapter serves Winneshiek, Allamakee, Howard, Clayton, Chickasaw and Fayette counties. Community members who know of a child who needs a blanket, or an organization that can help distribute them, are encouraged to reach out. Anyone can get involved by making a blanket and donating it to the local chapter. Drop-off sites are listed on the organization's website, or donors can contact Skellenger directly. Monetary donations to the 501(c)(3) charity are also accepted to help purchase blanket-making supplies; donors should designate the local chapter as the recipient. Project Linus Northeast Iowa also hosts Crafting for Charity events in the spring and fall to bring makers together in support of multiple local nonprofits. Event details can be found on the chapter's Facebook page or through its email newsletter. The Northeast Iowa chapter of Project Linus began six years ago under founder Anna Runestad. Skellenger joined shortly afterward and assumed leadership in 2020 when Runestad and her family moved out of state. Nationally, the volunteer organization has delivered more than 10 million handmade blankets to children worldwide, with the local chapter contributing more than 900 of those in northeast Iowa. For questions or more information about Project Linus, email Skellenger at eliseandemerald@gmail.com, visit the chapter's Facebook page, or go to projectlinus.org. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.