St. Mary secondary students participated in the annual Christian service project, Blankets of Hope, a tradition that was launched 30 years ago by Jozell Rexroat and Shirley Garthe.
The St. Mary Church Social Hall was a busy sewing center on Feb. 13 and 14. Stations were set up for measuring, cutting, pinning, ironing, turning and sewing.
Over 35 volunteers supported the event over a two-day period of time. Volunteers guided students through the blanket making process. This year, 130 blankets were constructed by students during this event. An additional 100 blankets were constructed by Cheryl Bunek. At home volunteers continue to sew additional blankets for this ministry.
One hundred eighty-five dresses and 48 pairs of shorts were also constructed to support Little Dresses for Africa, a Christian non-profit, founded in 2008. Additional dresses and shorts continue to be constructed by at home volunteers. Little Dresses for Africa sends relief to all parts of Africa and many countries beyond, including the distribution of dresses, shorts and other hand constructed personal care items, all made by volunteers.
Bishop Jeffrey Walsh, from the Diocese of Gaylord, blessed the blankets and dresses in the presence of the high school students.
Blankets will be sent to local organizations including the Leelanau Baby Pantry and Thrive in Traverse City. Blankets, dresses, shorts and personal care items will be sent to Malawi, Africa, and missions in Guatemala and Peru.
