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Canton Senior Center’s New Veteran Project

Canton, MI – January 26, 2010 The Canton Senior Center has undertaken a new project to assist the Michigan Veterans Foundation by creating lap robes for veterans. Crafters knit or crochet blocks that are assembled together to create lap robes that hopefully will bring some extra warmth and comfort to area veterans.

This active group of crafters is currently accepting donations of wool, in addition to completed knitted or crocheted squares that will be assembled at a future date to create these lap robes.

All squares are required to be 8 inches by 8 inches. Knitted squares should be created with approximately 31 stitches with 53 rows using a garter stitch or any stable stitch. Squares created with bright colors in durable, washable yarns or materials are the most desirable. Patriotic and unisex colors are also good choices.

"Many veterans are in wheelchairs most of the day and a lap robe is a great way to keep them cozy," said Susan Doughty, Senior Recreation Specialist. "These handmade robes represent our gratitude and support and show these veterans that we’re thinking of their health and comfort."

Donations of 4 ply worsted wool in all colors are also currently being accepted. Typically, one skein of yarn will yield about five or six knitted squares.

This spring the Canton Senior Center, located at 460000 Summit Parkway, will host a ‘Block Party’ where completed "block" squares will be joined together in a sewing circle to create robes. Area residents are invited to come and show their warm appreciation to our veterans by assisting with the assembly of the finished lap robes.

Completed robes will be donated to the Michigan Veterans Foundation. For more information about this special craft project, visit Cantonfun.org or call the Senior Desk at 734/394-5485.

MEDIA CONTACT: Susan Doughty, Senior Program Specialist - 734/394-5481.