Story Number 1:

I mentioned in my last message to you that Handmade was sending 85 hats to the Telfair Elementary School in Pacoima.  This school is special because 46% of its students are HOMELESS, yes, you read it correctly, HOMELESS.  It’s hard to imagine how homeless children can pay attention during class when they are wonderful where they will sleep.  The idea boggles my mind.  As you know, I felt badly that we had only 85 hats to send, not enough for every student.  I even checked the shed to see if there was a stray box we missed.  But there wasn’t.  So, last night, we packed up the box, sealed it up, and got it ready to take to UPS today.

That’s not the end of the saga, however.  This morning, when I went out to get the newspaper, there was a box on my doorstep from Gloria Botten, a volunteer in St. Augustine FL who knits only hats for us (completely darling, colorful hats).  Manna from heaven I thought.  Of course, I ripped open the box, rewrote the letter and shipping label, and added Gloria’s 30 hats.  I knew it still wasn’t enough, but. . . .

I wrote to the Principal, Jose Razo, alerting him that the box was on its way, and also that there weren’t enough hats for every student.  Here’s what he wrote back:

Thank you for your email and support. 115 hats are more than the 0 I have now.  So I very much appreciate it. 

Respectfully,

José Razo

Principal

Telfair Elementary

His note made me feel a lot better about not being able to send a hat for each child.  If you find yourself wanting to use yarn over the holidays, making few hats would be great.  We can always ship again.

Story Number 2:

I think you all remember back to the summer when Cathy Yamasaki donated so much fabulous yarn for making Magic Balls and comfort scarves.  Yesterday she sent me an email:  I am driving up to Paradise to drop donations at Christmas.  If anyone wants to donate small items, socks, gift cards, whatever, I will be happy to include in the drop.  This is how I am spending the holiday so let me know! . . . . .  I'm mostly taking socks, hygiene items, (trying to find inexpensive blankets and towels) toys and whatever makes practical sense.  They don't want food but if I can get it together to bake, I will bring that up.  Just a lot of folks needing help and the resources are stretched. 

What an incredible way to spend the holidays.  To me, that is the essence of the “Christmas spirit.”  Here’s her contact info if you have anything you want to add to the load she’s taking up to Paradise.  email: cathy.lee.yamasaki@gmail.com  cell:  (310) 503-4631

I always say that Handmade participants are really incredible.  Most volunteer not just for Handmade but for a variety of other causes as well.  Our group consists of “giving” people.  Thanks to all of you for being who you are.

Story Number 3:

Handmade’s final totals:

Since we started at the end of 2018:  115,755 scarves; 7,404 hats, 1,554 baby items, 81 youth blankets.

2018 alone:  11,770  scarves, 2,184 hats, 696 baby items, 81 youth blankets.

2018 holiday season:  3,520 scarves, 296 hats

No wonder you’re tired.  Maybe you feel worn out.  You did a lot.  We accomplished a lot.  Thanks to all.

Almost time for a well-deserved break.

Love,

Leslye