The Red Scarf Project

We knitters are a compassionate bunch, and there is an organization that needs our compassion. The Orphan Foundation of America sponsors the Red Scarf Project, and I encourage everyone to participate.

The Orphan Foundation of America is collecting 2,000 scarves to include in their Valentine Care Packages that will be given to America's college-bound foster youth. Your knitted, crocheted, woven, or sewn scarf will be the personal touch in these packages and bring students the support they need to move forward and graduate to a brighter future.

Here are the guidelines:

Size: Approximately 60 inches long and 5 to 8 inches wide. Scarves should be long enough to be wrapped around the neck with tails long enough to be tied in the front. Fringe is optional.

Style: Unisex collegiate. Both males and females will receive these scarves.

Color: RED!! But, that covers a lot of territory, including burgundy, cherry, russet, red stripes with other colors, multicolor hues including red. Don't like red? Well, other unisex colors such as black, navy, gray, teal, olive, or gold are also welcome.

Texture and weight: Soft and supple. They should not feel scratchy on the neck, and they should drape and tie easily.

Finished and Tagged: Yarn ends should be secured. For the personal touch, attach a tag saying "Handmade for You" with your name, city, and group affiliation, if any. If you wish, you may include washing instructions or a brief message of encouragement as well.

Scarves should be mailed in January to:
Orphan Foundation of America
Red Scarf Project
21351 Gentry Drive, Unit 130
Sterling, VA 20166

Or, if you'd like to send them to me, please e-mail me and I'll give you details (ida@idawalker.com).

Please help send warmth and encouragement to these special young people.