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On Christmas Eve 1995, Karen Loucks-Baker read an article in Parade Magazine entitled, "Joy to the World." Part of that article featured a petite, downy-haired child who had been going through intensive chemotherapy. The child said her security blanket had helped her get through the treatments. That night Karen Loucks-Baker decided to provide homemade security blankets to Denver's Rocky Mountain Children's Cancer Center. Project Linus was born. As of January 1, 2000, Project Linus has delivered over 150,100 security blankets to children around the world, and has over 300 chapters in the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico and Japan. Originally targeting pediatric cancer patients, Project Linus has broadened its focus, aiming to serve seriously ill or traumatized children in need of a big hug and a special blanket.

Want to make a child's life just a touch more secure? Contact Project Linus!

Project Linus, P.O. Box 5621, Bloomington, IL 61702-5621, Phone: (309) 664-7814. Web site: www.projectlinus.org.

Send a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your inquiry when contacting by mail.

 
Original entry:  (for non profit contest which Project Linus did win)

Our favorite worthy cause is Project Linus (as in Linus from the Peanuts cartoons). Linus always gets comfort from his security blanket, which is why this national organization is named for him. Peanuts creator Charles Schultz was aware of their efforts and was delighted to have Linus inspire blanket makers to help comfort children in need.

Project Linus is a 100% volunteer non-profit organization which provides love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through gifts of new, handmade blankets or afghans.

As a child I needed seven minor surgeries between the ages of 7 and 14. Each time, in the hospital, I was given a handmade kitty or doggy pillow. Those little gifts of kindness gave me comfort in a scary situation, so I know first-hand the value these lovingly made blankets will give.

If you would like to be a 'Blanketeer' for Project Linus, making one or many new handcrafted blankets or afghans for children in need of a hug. Look for a chapter in your area at http://www.projectlinus.org or call (309) 664-7814

Jan Jennrich
PhancyPages 'Homeschooling & Country Kids' Columnist