Frequently Asked Questions

There are many expenses involved in maintaining Project Linus. Normal expenses for our organization are: fabric, batting, yarn, other blanket-making supplies, blanket labels, printing, office supplies, shipping, accounting and auditing to name a few.

Visit our Find Chapters page where you can locate contact information for your local or closest Chapter. Ask the Chapter Coordinator if the Chapter has a need for these materials. Most Chapter Coordinators are very grateful for them, and can put them to good use. Materials must be new, unused, washable, and free of contaminants such as mold, mildew and smoke. They should be cotton or cotton/poly blend fabrics. Cotton or acrylic batting is acceptable, along with yarns that are washable. Knits, double knits, and other fabrics not appropriate for a child’s blanket may not be acceptable. Contact your Chapter Coordinator for more information.

Our Chapter Coordinators accept NEW HANDMADE, WASHABLE, blankets and afghans for giving to children ages 0-18 years. Project Linus blankets are not donated to adults. As a national policy we accept all sizes and styles, although some chapters may have more narrow requirements based on the needs of the facilities to which they donate. Project Linus has a non-smoking policy for chapter coordinators. Coordinators must be non-smokers and live and store blankets in a smoke free environment. Project Linus blankets must be of excellent quality and free from contaminants. Special care should be taken to ensure that blankets are free of smoky smells or any chemicals which could cause problems for a child. Ensure that blankets are free of pet or animal hair. Hospitals will not accept these blankets, and they will most likely be discarded by the facility. Recent studies show that laundering these blankets does not remove contamination, and in some cases can even make it worse. Always check blankets carefully for pins, and remove any embellishments such as buttons that could be swallowed.

When we say “handmade” we mean something that is not commercially manufactured or purchased. Of course, home sewing machines, knitting machines, etc. are fine. It has always been the mission of Project Linus to donate only new handmade blankets. We receive thousands of letters and thank you notes every year from children. Over and over they express how touched they are that a stranger would take the time to make something for them. They really know the difference. Purchased blankets are nice, but new handmade blankets are from the heart. If you do not have the time or ability to hand craft a blanket, perhaps you would consider a monetary donation. Visit our Donate page for more information.

Project Linus Chapter Coordinators are instructed to reject blankets that are not of excellent quality. In addition they must be free from contaminants. Special care should be taken to ensure all blankets are free of smoky smells or any chemicals which could cause problems for a child. Hospitals will not accept these blankets. Recent studies show laundering such blankets does not remove contamination, and in some cases can even make it worse. Again, if unusually strong smells due to chemicals used in detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets, mold and mildew or smoking products are apparent, most hospitals will discard the blanket rather than jeopardize the health of a patient. Always check blankets carefully for pins, and remove any embellishments such as buttons that could be swallowed. Thank you for helping to make sure that Project Linus blankets are safe and healthy, and will bring only comfort and security to a child in need!

Project Linus donates blankets to children, infants through teens. Many sizes are appropriate depending on Chapter need. For example, blankets could be as small as 36" × 36." The majority of Project Linus blankets are about 40" × 60", or what is called “crib size.” Blankets could be as large as twin size for teens. Local Chapters may have certain preferences depending on the facilities to which they donate. Visit our Find Chapters page to locate contact information for your local Project Linus Chapter so that you can ask about specific current needs.

Many other organizations and companies have been very generous in supplying patterns for our cause. Check our Patterns/Links page to see what is currently available online. In addition we offer several patterns in our online store, some of which are completely free.

Most children receive a Project Linus blanket through a local hospital, shelter, or other agency. If you know a child in crisis who will not likely get a Project Linus blanket from one of these facilities, please visit our Chapters page to locate contact information for the Project Linus Chapter closest to the child’s location.

Visit our Find Chapters page to locate a Chapter near you. Keep in mind that everyone at Project Linus is a volunteer. Personal issues, travel, work, and family all take priority at times over Chapter duties. Please be patient in waiting for your reply.

First, if possible, contact the nearest Chapter to determine the area that they cover. Many Chapter Coordinators will work with you even if you are not in their immediate area, and most have drop off locations established to make donating your blanket easy and convenient. Second, consider contacting any chapter on the list for a mailing address. Most Chapter Coordinators are happy to receive blankets by mail.

Visit our Become a Volunteer page. More information can be found on that page, along with a link to start the Chapter Coordinator application process.