Project Linus by Ann C.

My first experience at Project Linus was very rewarding.  Although not a proficient sewer I was still put to work ironing along with fellow TWA members Carole P, Carol H and Uzma.  Our other TWA members had a variety of other tasks to perform.  I have to say that the presence of TWA members surely helped out since we finished all of the work in record time.  The coordinator from St. Anastasia, Allison, informed us that since it's inception this chapter of Project Linus had made and donated a totatl of twenty thousand blankets.  WOW!!!  I asked about where the blankets went once they were made and was informed that (1) Project Nite Nite gives these blankets along with a book and small stuffed animal (Beanie Baby) to children in homeless shelters.  These children can then take these items with them when they leave the shelter.  Royal Oak Beaumont Pediatrics Unit, St. Josephs Hospital, and Childrens Hospital also receive these beautiful blankets.  One of the members of the group also takes the scrap material and makes dog toys, while another member made some beautiful quilts out of the leftover flannel.  All and all this was a wonderful way to spend a Saturday - with a group of dedicated and welcoming ladies with a very purposeful mission.  I invite anyone who has not participated before to join us at the next Project Linus event.  You will surely see me there again.  Thanks Diane for coordinating it this year, to Vickie who has coordinated in the past, and to Mary Smith who even takes these home to work on.  Your good work has made a positive impact in the life of a child somewhere near by.

The TWA Knitters have been busy!

Their latest project was making 27 snuggle blankets for the cats at New Beginnings Animal Rescue in Royal Oak. The folks at NBAR were very excited to receive them. These will be used to help the cats adjust to their surroundings, especially on their adoption day when the familiar scent associated with comfort, reassurance and good care will go with them to their forever home.

As a bonus, we had a chance to see and pet the cats in a wonderfully cat-friendly and super clean environment. If you are looking for a pet, this is a great place to begin (and end!) your search.

Kathi Fishbain

Chair, TWA Knitting for Charity

 

Senior Citizen Project

For our Senior Citizen Project this year, Troy Women’s Association provided a check for $500 to SHARP (Senior Home Assistance Repair Program) in Troy.  

SHARP is a community based project to assist Troy seniors (age 60+) and physically challenged individuals, who are Troy homeowner’s, maintain their home and remain independent for a longer period of time.  It also enhances the quality of life by making homes safer and by reducing some of the stress and confusion involved in making home repairs.  The home repairs are performed by volunteers at no cost for labor to the homeowner.  Some of the money will be used to replace smoke detector batteries and install smoke detectors where needed.

Submitted by Carole P.

Camp Casey

Thanks to the fabulous ladies at the Troy Women’s Association, Camp Casey has a huge amount of Horsey House Call supplies and a little extra to put toward their programs!

Camp Casey is a 501c3 nonprofit horseback riding organization for children with cancer and their families. They support the children through three unique programs:  Cowboy Camp Outs, Horsey House Calls, and Outlaw Outings. Through generous donations and amazing volunteers, Camp Casey has spread the healing power of horses for a decade.

Upcoming fundraiser events:

Wild West Summer Beer Fest
June 21, 2014
It's their biggest fundraiser ever! Join 2000+ "hop heads" at the Royal Oak Farmers Market to sample 100+ beers, local cuisine and live music. Tickets on sale now at Camp-Casey.org

Hot to Trot 5k Trail Race and 1-Mile Walk/Run
July 13, 2014
Challenge yourself and run through the beautiful trails of the Pontiac Lake Recreation Area to support Camp Casey. To sign up, go to Camp-Casey.org

Submitted by Sue R.

TWA Donates $1,000 to the Arc of Oakland County

This month, the Troy Women Association is pleased to donate $1,000 The Arc of Oakland County.

The Arc of Oakland Country advocated for the rights of all who have intellectual and other related developmental disabilities. Throughout the year, they host events to raise money to continue their work.  This month, May 7, 2014, there will be a state-wide, non-competitive, performing arts talent show at the Birmingham Community House in downtown Birmingham. It is to showcase the talents of artists with special needs.

 If you would like additional information on the Michigan Performing Arts Talent Show please call The Arc office at 248-816-1900.

 The Arc work through research and education to improve lives of children and adults and to prevent the causes and effects of intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

 http://thearcoakland.org/events-fundraising/michigan-performing-arts-talent-show/

Supporting the Troops

SUPPORT THE TROOPS

Vets Returning Home opened its doors in September 2013 in Roseville, Michigan.  The facility was created to benefit military veterans returning home who have found themselves homeless for various reasons.

Troy Women’s Association donated $300 in Meijer gift cards to purchase meat for the vets, the greatest immediate need identified.  Additionally, with $500 in Walmart gift cards TWA purchased bath towels and fresh fruit along with a large Easter basket filled with snacks.  These items were delivered in time for the Easter holiday together with the dollars remaining on the Walmart gift cards for stocking their pantry.

Vets Returning Home brings hope and self worth to our vets by working to serve their individual needs.  TWA is grateful to these brave men who sacrificed their personal lives to protect our freedom.  

Submitted by Carole P.

Project Linus

       Troy Women’s Association members participated once again in a Project Linus event held at St.  Anastasia Church in Troy on March 29, 2014.  Representing our group were 16 adults and 14 children including girl scouts and grandchildren.  Some of the children were even given the opportunity to sew on a sewing machine for the first time and they loved it.   
    Our membership purchased flannel, fleece, satin binding, etc. to make over 60 blankets for care communities across the United States.
The day’s activities included ironing, cutting, machine sewing, turning, pinning, folding, knotting and hand sewing labels with the Project Linus logo.  
As usual it was a day filled with fun and fellowship.

Submitted by Mary S.