Around 15 quilters from across the Valley gathered at the Huntingdon Legion late last year for a first official “sew day” in support of the Quilts of Valour program.
The quilters, many of whom are members of the O-HO Quilters or the Quiltivators, completed at least four quilt tops during the day which included a free lunch and many laughs.
Quilts of Valour Canada’s vice president, Camilla Gallibois, who was present for the activity, says recruitment is going very well and especially in the Huntingdon, Ormstown, and Valleyfield areas. “We enjoy it,” she says, noting how all the participants have their own station with their own equipment so they can contribute in the way they feel most comfortable.
“In the process, everyone gets to put a little ‘extra’ into the quilts and it is all done with laughter and love,” Gallibois explains. “At the end of the day, we have fun as a group, and our veterans get the reward of a nice quilt when they are completed.”
Gallibois says the hope is that local quilters will be able to get together more regularly this year for sew days, possibly on a monthly basis.
The next opportunity will take place on Friday, February 7. It will coincide with an international Quilt of Valour sew day, with dozens of groups taking part across Canada. Hand sewers, pressers, gofers, and sewing machine operators are all welcome to join from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Huntingdon Legion..