Knitters, crocheters of all levels invited to ‘Warm Up Medina’
Martha Fousek leads the Yarn Buddies, this "spunky group" of knitters and crocheters has met for more than a decade to make blankets for the needy.
MCDL
Western Reserve’s Yarn Buddies welcome newcomers to help create blankets, hats, and scarves for Medina County residents in need.
Every Wednesday at 10 a.m., a group of
women gathers near the café in the lobby of Western Reserve Masonic Community.
Known as the Yarn Buddies, this spunky group of knitters and crocheters has met
for more than a decade to make blankets for Warm Up Medina County – a local
program organized through the Medina County District Library.
Organizer Martha Fousek says the group
is eager to share its craft with anyone interested in learning or picking it
back up.
“It’s like riding a bike,” member Jean
Trigg said. “If you haven’t knitted in years, it will come back to you
quickly.”
No experience is necessary to join and
newcomers don’t even need to bring supplies at first. The group has extra yarn
and needles on hand.
“I learned from the ladies here and
from watching YouTube videos,” said Jan Busby, who had never crocheted until
joining.
Warm Up Medina County is a grassroots
effort that accepts donations year-round at Medina County District Library
locations. The library’s Community Engagement Department stores finished items
in its lower-level storage area until the annual deadline on the first Saturday
of November. At that point, staff organize and fill requests for about a dozen
local agencies, including the Salvation Army, Feeding Medina County and
Catholic Charities. These organizations distribute handmade blankets, scarves,
mittens and hats to clients.
Now in its 21st year, Warm Up Medina
County has produced more than 14,000 items for residents in need. In recent
years, annual totals have topped 1,000 items.
The Western Reserve group accepts
donations of clean, washable yarn, but does not take unfinished projects.
Members specialize in making baby, lap and full-size blankets, as well as
winter accessories.
“We want to grow this group to help
Warm Up Medina County,” Fousek said. “There is a need.”
Those interested in joining can visit
the Western Reserve Masonic Community at 4931 Nettleton Road in Medina. Guests
should check in at the front desk and will be directed to the group’s location.
Visitors are also welcome to stay for lunch in the Café, which is available for
less than $10.
