There are some wonderful things we all can do to make someone else's Christmas grand, near to us, or far. Is there an aunt you have who will be alone in the nursing home this season? Maybe you know someone who's homebound who could use a little cheering up? There are scores of local, national and international charities you can donate money to, but often little goodies that come wrapped in cheery paper are such a special treat. Here are some ideas (most are needlework and craft-related) for holiday cheer you can share with friends you haven't met:
Nursing homes, senior centers or retirement homes may have needs for craft supplies. Think how welcome these types of items would be: colorful yarns and new plastic knitting needles, shiny new scissors with nice grips for arthritic hands, pretty colored papers, stamps and stamp pads, markers and pens, crochet hooks and thread, quilting or sewing fabrics. How about a tabletop tree (which can be purchased inexpensively at many craft and department stores) with a kit for making painted wood ornaments? Your needlework group could also stitch ornaments and purchase a tree to donate.
Grade schools and daycare centers might love some new books for their libraries -- there are wonderful books about the history of arts and crafts, fictional stories about family quilts and artists, how-to craft books. Maybe you've noticed your local public library could use some new craft books -- most graciously accept donations. Or, you could give the art department some classical or children's music tapes for the children to listen to while they paint, color and glue. Don't forget your local Ronald McDonald house (or a place where families stay while their loved ones in the hospital. The hospital itself may have rooms, so phone to find out what kinds of supplies they might enjoy).
Women's shelters or shelters for the homeless can use just about anything, as the men, women and their children are often starting over from scratch. Remember, that the children at the shelters may not have many of their toys along, so they might appreciate new toys of any type. Wouldn't it be neat for some child to open up a new latch hook rug kit, sewing cards, needlepoint kit or other craft kit? A project can fill and cheer hours away from home. Women at the shelter might enjoy small needlework kits, but I know they often need necessities like toiletries and underwear. Really nice soaps and candles would be a pleasant treat any time of year. Gift certificates to a fast food restaurant or play center (waterslide, skating rink or public gym) would make an afternoon seem a little less gloomy.
A local place of worship might also love some craft supplies, especially if special children's services are offered. A stack of new coloring books and some new packs of crayons or washable markers would be great. Sewing cards or stringable beads are fun toys for little hands. Sunday school programs could use just about any craft supplies: glue, children's scissors, construction papers, glitter glues, bags of colorful pompoms, yarns or paints. Your church may have a "Giving Tree," or you could start one of your own. On the tree may hang "ornaments" with the desired gifts or clothing sizes of children or adults in need. With the items listed as needs on the card (often clothes, hats, and mittens), include some lovely new school supplies. Less fortunate children often go to school with very few of the necessary tools for learning. Pads of paper, a box of pencils or pens, new markers, new scissors, a box of crayons...all would be wonderful surprises.
Non-profit needlework groups may have libraries. Give some new charts, stitch guides, needlework videos or hardcover books of charts or historical information about the craft. The group may also do fundraising by making ornaments or other projects -- give fabric, flosses, quick and easy charts or craft ideas. How about a rubber stamp with "Stitched by ______" with a stamp pad or markers?
Do you know someone who is homebound? A visit is usually the best gift you can give. Take along your needlework and something for your friend to work on (needlework, paper stamping projects, a pony bead project, and so on). Make it simple enough so the two of you can continue to chat while you work. This way you both have something to work on and talk about.
Local women's religious groups (like convents) sometimes limit the amount of purchases any member can make. Donate a box of flosses, needles, fabrics, and charts. Purchase a subscription to a crafting magazine for the group to enjoy, or treat someone to membership with your local Embroiderer's Guild or ANG chapter. A caligraphy kit with lovely parchment papers would be fun, as well. Books for the library, videos or music would be a nice gift. Indulge the recipients with a box of chocolates, colorful scented soaps or candles, creamy hand lotions or beautiful stationery.
Remember, too, those who have lost loved ones this past year. The holidays are often the hardest on those who remember good times with people they no longer can celebrate with. A batch of cookies, a homemade card, or a few carols sung in the yard with friends will brighten someone else's day.
I wish you the very best of the season -- happy stitching, and holiday blessings.
© 2007 Theresa Venette. Articles on this site may be reproduced in needlework group newsletters or other handouts with permission of author and proper attribution. Send questions, comments and suggestions to: xspeddler@yahoo.com