Donate a Quilt

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Donate a Quilt

Earning the “Donate a Quilt” Badge: Where to Give & How to Prepare Your Quilt for Donation

This month, we’re talking about a badge that speaks to the heart of quilting: the Donate a Quilt badge. There’s nothing more fulfilling than creating a beautiful quilt and then passing it along to someone who can use its warmth and love. As you prepare to donate your quilt and earn this meaningful badge, here’s everything you need to know about where to give and how to get your quilt donation-ready!

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Where to Donate Your Quilt

There are many wonderful organizations that accept quilt donations, each with unique missions and guidelines. Here’s a list of some incredible organizations that would be honored to receive your quilt:

American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region

Mission:
The American Red Cross “Quilts for Veterans” project brings care and comfort to local veterans through the warmth of quilts.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.redcross.com
Location:
Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

Project Linus

Mission:
Provides handmade blankets to children in need, offering security and comfort during challenging times.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.projectlinus.org
Location:
Visit the Find Chapters page to locate one near you.

Quilts Beyond Borders

Mission:
Reaches out to under-served children, mainly orphans, across the world to provide a handmade quilt and spread love and hope.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
Yes
quiltsbeyondborders.wordpress.com
Location:
United States

Quilts for a Cause

Mission:
Quilt for a Cause auctions and sells handmade quilts donated by quilters, quilt patterns and quilt related products to support breast and gynecological screening and treatment.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.quiltsforacause.org
Location
Tuscson, AZ

Quilts for Kids

Mission:
Sends quilts to children facing serious illness, trauma, abuse or natural disasters.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.quiltsforkids.org
Location
Local Chapters throughout the United States and Ontario, Canada

Quilts of Honor

Mission:
Quilts of Honor are made by the loving hands of countless volunteers who wish to thank those who have served and to honor their service and sacrifice.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.quiltsofhonor.org
Location:
Local Chapters throughout the United States

Quilts of Valor Foundation

Mission:
Honors and comforts service members and veterans with handmade quilts.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.qovf.org
Location:
Participating shops and groups can be found throughout the United States

Victoria's Quilts Canada

Mission:
Provides quilts to individuals with cancer, offering warmth and hope.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
Yes
www.victoriasquiltscanada.com
Location:
Victoria's Quilts Canada now has branches in nearly every province across Canada.

Victoria's Quilts USA

Mission:
Provides quilts to individuals with cancer, offering warmth and hope.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
No
www.victoriasquilts.com
Location:
Gardena, California

Wrap Them in Love

Mission:
Sends quilts to children in need worldwide, including orphanages and shelters.
Accepts Finished Quilts:
Yes
Accepts Quilt Tops:
Yes
www.wraptheminlove.org
Location:
Mt. Vernon, Washington

Hospice and Nursing Home Facilities

To find facilities in your area that accept quilt donations, start by reaching out to local hospices, nursing homes, and assisted living centers. A quick online search like “hospice accepting quilt donations near me” or “local nursing homes in need of quilt donations” can bring up nearby options. You can also call or visit their websites to check if they accept quilts, as each facility has different needs and guidelines. Many facilities warmly welcome handmade quilts, so don’t hesitate to ask about specific donation requirements and preferences.

Local Shelters & Community Centers

To find facilities in your area, start by searching online for phrases like “shelters accepting quilt donations near me” or “community centers in need of blanket donations.” Many shelters and centers have websites or social media pages where they post about donation needs and guidelines. You can also call local non-profit organizations, housing assistance programs, or even city government offices, as they can often direct you to places actively seeking quilt donations. Each center may have specific requirements regarding quilt sizes and materials, so a quick call or message can help ensure your quilt meets their needs and reaches the people who will benefit most.

Preparing Your Quilt for Donation

Check Organization Requirements
Every organization may have different requirements for quilt sizes, colors, patterns, and materials. Always check their website or call to verify these guidelines. Some places require new quilts, while others may accept gently used ones.
Use High-Quality, Durable Materials
Select high-quality materials when making donation quilts, as they’ll last longer and bring comfort over time. Use durable thread, sturdy backing fabrics, and a batting that provides enough warmth without being too bulky.
Pre-Wash Fabric
Pre-washing your fabric can prevent shrinking and color bleeding. It's especially important if your quilt will go to a child or someone with sensitivities. This step also gives the quilt a fresh, clean scent.
Wash the Completed Quilt
Washing your quilt after completion is essential to remove any dust or stray fibers from the quilting process. Use a gentle cycle and mild detergent, and air-dry if possible. Make sure the quilt is completely dry before folding.
Attach a Quilt Label
Add a label to your quilt if the organization allows it. Labels can include your name, location, and the date it was completed. This personal touch reminds the recipient that the quilt was made with care and love just for them.
Secure Loose Threads
Take a few minutes to clip any loose threads and ensure all seams are tight. A well-finished quilt not only looks beautiful but will also stand up to wear and washing.
Package Thoughtfully
Fold your quilt neatly and package it in a clean, waterproof bag. This helps keep it safe during transit and ensures it arrives in pristine condition.
Write a Note (Optional)
Some organizations allow you to include a note. A small, heartfelt message adds a personal touch that can mean so much to the recipient. A simple “Made with love and warmth from a fellow Quilt Scout” can be incredibly meaningful.

Download a Printable Quilt Donation Checklist

To make it easy to keep track of your progress, I created a Donate a Quilt Checklist. This printable checklist will guide you from start to finish, with spots to record details like the organization you’ve chosen, donation requirements, and more. Download it, check it off as you go!

DOWNLOAD

Final Thoughts on Donating a Quilt

Earning your Donate a Quilt badge is not just a personal achievement—it’s a chance to touch someone’s life in a meaningful way. From wrapping a child in warmth to honoring a veteran’s service, your quilt is a gift that will be cherished. This badge celebrates the joy of giving, reminding us that quilts are truly threads that connect us all. Let us know about your experience, and feel free to share photos of your donated quilts on social media with #quiltscouts.

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Castle Rock, CO 80104, USA
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