In a world often filled with chaos and uncertainty, it’s heartwarming to know that there are still simple acts of kindness that can make a significant difference in someone’s life. One such act is knitting or crocheting hats for those in need. As the winter chill sets in, many individuals find themselves without the means to stay warm. However, through the power of knitting, crocheting, and volunteering from home, we can help keep heads and hearts warm.

The Knit & Crochet for a Cause Initiatives

Make a Difference From Home is proud to introduce the “Knit for a Cause” and “Crochet for a Cause” DIY projects. These volunteer-from-home opportunities invite crafters of all skill levels to pick up their needles and create cozy hats for individuals facing hardships, whether they’re experiencing homelessness, undergoing medical treatments, recovering from cancer, or living in underserved communities.

Why Make Hats?

Hats are more than just a piece of clothing; they’re a symbol of warmth, comfort, and care. In colder months, a simple hat can provide much-needed insulation, helping to prevent heat loss and protect against the harsh elements. Moreover, handmade items carry a special touch of love and compassion that can uplift spirits and bring a sense of belonging to those who receive them.

How Can You Get Involved?

Crafting for a charity cause is easy and flexible, making it the perfect volunteer opportunity for those who want to make a difference from the comfort of their own home. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Start Knitting: Whether you’re experienced or a beginner looking to learn a new skill, you can contribute to the cause. Choose your favorite hat pattern or explore online resources for inspiration.
• Gather Supplies: All you need are some knitting needles or a crochet hook, and yarn in your preferred colors and textures. Feel free to get creative with your designs, knowing that each hat you create will bring joy to its recipient.
• Spread the Word: Share the “Knit for a Cause” and “Crochet for a Cause”  initiatives with friends, family, and fellow crafters. Encourage others to join in the effort and amplify the impact of your collective contributions.  Please share your impact on hashtags #makeadifferencefromhome and #volunteerfromhome. We’d love to see your pictures!
• Donate Your Hats: Once you’ve finished knitting your hats, consider donating them to local shelters, hospitals, or community organizations that serve vulnerable populations. Or if you’d like to earn volunteer service hours, please send you hat(s) to: Share Your Warmth, Small Acts Big Change, PO Box 1374, La Canada, CA 91012.  Your generosity will help ensure that those in need stay warm and cared for during the colder months.

Students Earn Volunteer Service Hours for School:

Small Acts Big Change can certify your student volunteer hours.  Each handmade hat  earns 5 hours of volunteer service hour credit.   If you are an expert knitter or crocheter and it takes you less than 5 hours to crochet a hat, please submit your actual volunteer hours.  The maximum volunteer time awarded per knitted hat is 5 hours.   We must receive the hat in order to award your service hours so that we can verify the work. We accept handmade hats from volunteers in all states and countries.  Please send your handmade hat, contact information, and service hours form for approval to Share Your Warmth, Small Acts Big Change, PO Box 1374, La Canada, CA 91012.  Any questions? Please feel free to email us at [email protected].

There is no limit to the number of hats you can make and the volunteer hours you can earn with SABC, although your school/organization may limit the number of hours you can achieve with one charity.  

The Effect of Kindness

By participating in the “Knit for a Cause” and “Crochet for a Cause”  initiatives, you’re not just creating hats – you’re spreading warmth, kindness, and hope to individuals who may be struggling. Your act of generosity has the power to make a big difference in someone’s life, reminding them that they are not alone and that there are people who care about their well-being.

Make a Difference

In a world where we often feel powerless to enact change, it’s empowering to know that we can make a difference, one stitch at a time. Through our cause initiatives, we have the opportunity to extend warmth, comfort, and compassion to those who need it most. So pick up your needles, knit with love, and let’s make this winter a little brighter for everyone. Together, we can truly make a difference from home!

Group Opportunities:

Would you like to bring this project or another from Make a Difference From Home to a group you are involved with while still practicing social distancing? Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, schools, businesses or other groups, please contact Carolyn  at [email protected] for more information.

Thank you:  

Thank you for helping to spread happiness and kindness throughout the world. <3