Who are we? We are a group of knitters and crocheters who do what we love for a good cause! We create warm winter items that are distributed to those in need in the DC area.
Have questions or want to get in touch? We’re so glad you’re interested. Please email Sonya at [email protected] , and check out our FAQ below!
Are you on Ravelry? Yes! ravelry.com/groups/washington-dc-jcc-handmade-for-the-homeless
Why warm winter items? Individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty are most in need during the winter, when they are exposed to the elements.
What warm winter items are most needed? Hats, scarves, socks, gloves, and mittens in adult sizes (although children's items will not be turned away).
Do you have yarn that I can use and do you accept yarn donations? Yes and yes! Contact Sonya ([email protected]) to pick up or drop off yarn. We have heard from shelters that dark/gender neutral items and those made from thick yarn are the most helpful, so we especially appreciate those types of yarn!
Are there certain types of yarn I should use? Because it stays dry and is very warm, washable or acrylic wool is the best, but any yarn is fine.
Do I need to follow certain patterns? No! The warmer the better. Try holding two strands together to make it extra warm. Solids, stripes, zigzags- whatever makes you happy! We have patterns available for inspiration.
What kinds of items do you need? We need warm winter items that will apply to people of all/any gender. However, since donated yarn tends to be in bright colors, we often end up with items that the shelters and other partner organizations sort as “women’s items” and are always in need of items that our partner organizations will view as “men’s items” or “gender-neutral”.
When do you need the handmade items by? Each year, the handmade items are gift-wrapped as part of the December 25th Day of Service (D25). All items are needed by early December in order to have time to gift wrap them and allocate them to 55+ organizations that will receive them as gifts on Christmas Day. If you missed the deadline for this year that’s fine - we will happily accept them the next year!
Where do the items get donated? Handmade items are donated to local homeless shelters, transitional facilities, senior centers, and other social service agency clients.
How often do you meet and where? We meet every month at the Edlavitch DCJCC, located in Dupont Circle. Check www.edcjcc.org/volunteer for upcoming dates and to register for the next session.
I want to get involved, but don’t know how to knit or crochet. Can you teach me? Absolutely! Just let us know. We love knitting and crocheting and want you to become as addicted as we are to helping others while doing something we love.
Do I need to be a certain age to participate? No. We have knitters and crocheters as young as 12, high school students, college students, and retirees at our monthly sessions.
Do I need to come to the monthly sessions to donate items? No. Completed items can be dropped off at the JCC front desk at any time (please email Sonya to coordinate) or mailed to the Edlavitch DCJCC at 1529 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20036 and address the package to Sonya Weisburd/Attn: Handmade for the Homeless
How else can I get involved? The Morris Cafritz Center for Community Service (MCCCS) has many one-time and year-round volunteer programs. You can find all up-coming volunteer opportunities at www.edcjcc.org/volunteer
