(Chelsea Update would like to thank Bob Milbrodt for the information in this story.)
Last Monday, the Chelsea Kiwanis Club heard from member Nancy Memmer of Preemie Pals, a group of quilters who create beautiful quilts that are donated to the families at the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and Pediatric Cardiothoracic Units (PCTU) at Mott Hospital, Trinity Health Hospital in Ann Arbor, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Henry Ford Allegiance in Jackson, and Ronald McDonald House (RMH) of Ann Arbor.
Memmer has been making quilts with them since 2017, but since 2012, well over 6,000 quilts have been donated. Families are not expecting to need intensive care for their infant, so this is a very stressful time. Quilts are a tangible gift to show care, concern, and support during their medical crisis.
A preemie quilt is typically 36″ by 42″, a quilt for RMH is typically 36″ by 70″ or larger, and a quilt for a PCTU is anything in between these two sizes. Some of the fabric and thread is donated, but the batting is the most expensive ingredient and needs to be purchased. It costs between $45-50 for the supplies to make each quilt.
Preemie Pals has received support from generous members of the community, as well as from grants. Donations are welcome, as well as volunteers to create the quilts.
Please visit www.preemiepals.org for more information and a gallery of photos.
The club’s Gourmet Mixed Nuts can be purchased at today’s Chelsea Expo, and at Sunday’s Pop Up Farmers Market (Chelsea Depot). Your purchase at $25 for a 36-ounce tin helps to support our club’s projects throughout the year.
