"Just wanted to send a THANK YOU for everything you do. My wife and I just accepted our first foster care placement (first time parents). Through different organizations that sent care packages, the girls received 2 blankets each. They use them every day, and they mean so much to them.
They came with next to nothing, just the clothes on their backs, so having these blankets has helped their transition into our home. They will not go to bed without them each night. Witnessing how something as simple as a blanket can impact the lives of these children is amazing. Thank you!"
Justin M., Columbus, Ohio
What type of donations are accepted?
Style/Type/Size of Blanket or Quilt
We accept new blankets and quilts that are sewn with material (cotton, flannel, fleece and other materials appropriate for a child), yarn blankets that are knitted or crocheted and “no-sew” fleece blankets. Please do not attach anything to your blankets such as buttons that could be a choking hazard, or ribbons, strings or other items that are more than 4" long.
We accept new blankets and quilts that are sewn with material (cotton, flannel, fleece and other materials appropriate for a child), yarn blankets that are knitted or crocheted and “no-sew” fleece blankets. Please do not attach anything to your blankets such as buttons that could be a choking hazard, or ribbons, strings or other items that are more than 4" long.
Blanket Size
Yarn or Quilts
Approximately: small - 36” x 36”, medium - 40” x 50-60”, large - 60” x 80”.
Fleece blankets
"No-sew" fleece suggested 1.5-yards or 58" square.
Yarn or Quilts
Approximately: small - 36” x 36”, medium - 40” x 50-60”, large - 60” x 80”.
Fleece blankets
"No-sew" fleece suggested 1.5-yards or 58" square.
Colors, Patterns, Themes
Please use colors and patterns appropriate for youth. Avoid themes related to violence or war (guns, knives, soldiers, etc.), drugs/alcohol, or logos/images related to causes (such as cancer ribbons).
Avoid embellishments such as pockets, beads, zippers or buttons. All blankets and quilts should be machine washable and dryable.
Please use colors and patterns appropriate for youth. Avoid themes related to violence or war (guns, knives, soldiers, etc.), drugs/alcohol, or logos/images related to causes (such as cancer ribbons).
Avoid embellishments such as pockets, beads, zippers or buttons. All blankets and quilts should be machine washable and dryable.
Do you accept fabric donations?
Please ensure your fabric donations meet the following criteria:
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Please ensure your fabric donations meet the following criteria:
- Child-friendly colors, patterns and themes.
- Clean and free from pet hair.
- No stains or odors.
- Donations must be at least 0.5 yard x width of fabric.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Fleece Blankets Made with Fleece that You Purchase
You can make an MVOB fleece blanket with fleece that you purchase and by purchasing our special tags. You WILL need to sew the tag onto the blanket before donating the finished blankets in your community.
• Guidelines for purchasing your own fleece
• A note about using commercial fleece blanket kits
• More about making fleece blankets
• Fringe cutting template (Print on card stock for best results)
You can make an MVOB fleece blanket with fleece that you purchase and by purchasing our special tags. You WILL need to sew the tag onto the blanket before donating the finished blankets in your community.
• Guidelines for purchasing your own fleece
• A note about using commercial fleece blanket kits
• More about making fleece blankets
• Fringe cutting template (Print on card stock for best results)
Do blankets/quilts need to be washed before we donate them?
No, you do not need to wash your completed blankets and quilts unless they came in contact with pet hair or were made in a home where individuals smoke.
No, you do not need to wash your completed blankets and quilts unless they came in contact with pet hair or were made in a home where individuals smoke.
What does it mean to sponsor a blanket?
You can sponsor a blanket that someone else will make with a donation of $20/blanket kit. Blankets are taken to assisted living facilities for seniors to make and to adult day care centers, helping them feel valued and comforted. The donation covers the cost of kit materials plus the extra packing and handling required to provide kits for these special Blanket Angels.
You can make a blanket yourself for a donation of $12 for one blanket kit to be picked up or $15 if we ship the kit to you. Each kit makes one “no-sew” fleece blanket. Your donation helps to pay for the fabric, for us to make and give out the special tags and helps cover other expenses involved in our mission and ministry. The blanket can be for you or your group of family, friends or colleagues to make.
You can sponsor a blanket that someone else will make with a donation of $20/blanket kit. Blankets are taken to assisted living facilities for seniors to make and to adult day care centers, helping them feel valued and comforted. The donation covers the cost of kit materials plus the extra packing and handling required to provide kits for these special Blanket Angels.
You can make a blanket yourself for a donation of $12 for one blanket kit to be picked up or $15 if we ship the kit to you. Each kit makes one “no-sew” fleece blanket. Your donation helps to pay for the fabric, for us to make and give out the special tags and helps cover other expenses involved in our mission and ministry. The blanket can be for you or your group of family, friends or colleagues to make.
Delivering blankets to children in foster care
Where are blankets delivered?
To our partners in State Child Protective Services and private agencies providing a home and safety to children in foster care. Social workers distribute the blankets to children who are removed from their homes.
We Comfort Cases, My Stuff Bags and Stitched Together. These non-profit organizations provide children and youth in foster children with backpacks or duffel bags filled with personal care items, books or toys, clothing – and our blanket. These bags are often the only possessions a foster child owns and can keep on their journey through the foster care system.
To our partners in State Child Protective Services and private agencies providing a home and safety to children in foster care. Social workers distribute the blankets to children who are removed from their homes.
We Comfort Cases, My Stuff Bags and Stitched Together. These non-profit organizations provide children and youth in foster children with backpacks or duffel bags filled with personal care items, books or toys, clothing – and our blanket. These bags are often the only possessions a foster child owns and can keep on their journey through the foster care system.
How do I find a donation site near me?
DELIVERING BLANKETS AGENCY LIST
Blankets are often made by volunteers in states other than Ohio, and we send them our special tags. These can be individual blanket angels, groups or organizations. These volunteers connect with Child Protective Service agencies in their areas and donate the blankets directly to them.
Blanket Angel Diane is pictured donating blankets made by her group to Youth Emerging Stronger in Los Angeles.
If you do not live near our workshop, we encourage you to donate your blankets directly to an agency in your area that helps children in foster care. We have made contact with at least one agency in each state in the U.S. Check out our DELIVERING BLANKETS AGENCY LIST to find an agency near you.
If you do not find a location from our list that is near you, please try the link below to the National Foster Care and Adoption Directory search engine. To search for agencies in your state:
1. Select your state from the list
2. Select a category: Foster Care and Adoption Contact Numbers and Websites
3. Click GO to begin your search.
Search National Foster Care and Adoption Directory
You could also contribute by taking a little time to help us find a local children’s services organization, as you are more familiar with your area. When we are looking for an agency in an area we aren't familiar with, we “Google” foster care in the county where you live and then do a little research on their website to find contact information.
You can then reach out to them, ask to speak to a caseworker and let them know you have partnered with our charity to support them in the work they do by donating blankets they can give to the children in foster care.
It may be helpful to let them know that the new handmade blankets do not cost anything, and they do not have to fill out any paperwork. Caseworkers often think there is a “catch” to our kindness!
If you could take that step, you would be helping us expand our network of children's services agencies all over the U.S.
NOTE: IF YOU FIND AN AGENCY IN YOUR AREA THAT CAN USE YOUR BLANKETS, PLEASE SEND US THEIR NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE, CONTACT PERSON AND EMAIL so we can add it to our list for others to use. Thank you so much!
We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for helping us bring love to children in foster care in your area who so much need to see and feel loved! We are so grateful for your help!
Blankets are often made by volunteers in states other than Ohio, and we send them our special tags. These can be individual blanket angels, groups or organizations. These volunteers connect with Child Protective Service agencies in their areas and donate the blankets directly to them.
Blanket Angel Diane is pictured donating blankets made by her group to Youth Emerging Stronger in Los Angeles.
If you do not live near our workshop, we encourage you to donate your blankets directly to an agency in your area that helps children in foster care. We have made contact with at least one agency in each state in the U.S. Check out our DELIVERING BLANKETS AGENCY LIST to find an agency near you.
If you do not find a location from our list that is near you, please try the link below to the National Foster Care and Adoption Directory search engine. To search for agencies in your state:
1. Select your state from the list
2. Select a category: Foster Care and Adoption Contact Numbers and Websites
3. Click GO to begin your search.
Search National Foster Care and Adoption Directory
You could also contribute by taking a little time to help us find a local children’s services organization, as you are more familiar with your area. When we are looking for an agency in an area we aren't familiar with, we “Google” foster care in the county where you live and then do a little research on their website to find contact information.
You can then reach out to them, ask to speak to a caseworker and let them know you have partnered with our charity to support them in the work they do by donating blankets they can give to the children in foster care.
It may be helpful to let them know that the new handmade blankets do not cost anything, and they do not have to fill out any paperwork. Caseworkers often think there is a “catch” to our kindness!
If you could take that step, you would be helping us expand our network of children's services agencies all over the U.S.
NOTE: IF YOU FIND AN AGENCY IN YOUR AREA THAT CAN USE YOUR BLANKETS, PLEASE SEND US THEIR NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE, CONTACT PERSON AND EMAIL so we can add it to our list for others to use. Thank you so much!
We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for helping us bring love to children in foster care in your area who so much need to see and feel loved! We are so grateful for your help!
What are the special tags?
We created special tags for blanket angels to write their own first name (and a brief positive message) on the tag, showing the child who receives the blanket that someone did indeed make this just for them! You can see some examples below.
We created special tags for blanket angels to write their own first name (and a brief positive message) on the tag, showing the child who receives the blanket that someone did indeed make this just for them! You can see some examples below.
You will receive a pre-attached tag as part of a blanket kit, or you can order tags for $.35 each (to pick up at our workshop) or $.65 (to be shipped to you).
Blanket Angels, be sure to write your name on the SECOND line on the tag and your message on the THIRD line and, if you need more space, at the bottom of the tag. Please leave the TOP line blank so there is room for the child who receives the blanket to write their name. Thanks!
IDEAS FOR NOTES TO WRITE ON YOUR TAGS (PDF)
Blanket Angels, be sure to write your name on the SECOND line on the tag and your message on the THIRD line and, if you need more space, at the bottom of the tag. Please leave the TOP line blank so there is room for the child who receives the blanket to write their name. Thanks!
IDEAS FOR NOTES TO WRITE ON YOUR TAGS (PDF)
If you are able to sew on the tags, they are sewn on a corner of the back of the blanket, about 5" in from each edge, as shown in the photo. You can use a running zigzag stitch or a straight stitch. In our workshop, we use invisible thread in the bobbin and white on top so that thread doesn't have to be changed to match different blankets. However, you can use whatever color thread is appropriate.
We also have volunteers in our workshop who attach tags to completed blankets. Just tuck the completed tag into the finished folded blanket, and we'll take it from there!
We also have volunteers in our workshop who attach tags to completed blankets. Just tuck the completed tag into the finished folded blanket, and we'll take it from there!
Blanket-making events
I am interested in hosting a blanket-making event. What do I need to know?
A blanket-making event is a great way to get families, friends, work colleagues, social groups, Scout troops – just about any group – involved together making our “no-sew” fleece blankets, no matter where you live.
You will need to select a date and a location with enough flat work surfaces for your group to work on their blankets, and you will need to gather a pair of scissors for each group member.
How to make a fleece blanket from our kit (instructions)
How to make a fleece blanket from our kit (1-minute video)
Schedule our MVOB Founder to speak virtually at your event
Supporting materials and videos for your blanket-making event
Have you considered hosting a blanket birthday party? Learn more here.
If you live within 30 miles of Westerville, Ohio . . .
We offer in our workshop all the supplies needed to complete your blankets. We have fleece in numerous colors, styles and different prints (all age appropriate) for only $12 for each blanket. You can choose your own fleece, or we can pre-select a variety for you.
Each fleece kit includes the material ready to cut and fringe, the fringe cutting template, sample fringe cut on 2 sides, the special tag (already attached) ensuring the blanket will stay with the child when they move from placement to placement, the packaging and shipping we provide so that blankets reach children in foster care and the opportunity to be a part of our ministry.
Everything will be ready for you to pick up so that you are in and out of the Blanket Workshop, ready for your blanket making party, in less than 15 minutes. Below is our graphic illustrating the process.
A blanket-making event is a great way to get families, friends, work colleagues, social groups, Scout troops – just about any group – involved together making our “no-sew” fleece blankets, no matter where you live.
You will need to select a date and a location with enough flat work surfaces for your group to work on their blankets, and you will need to gather a pair of scissors for each group member.
How to make a fleece blanket from our kit (instructions)
How to make a fleece blanket from our kit (1-minute video)
Schedule our MVOB Founder to speak virtually at your event
Supporting materials and videos for your blanket-making event
Have you considered hosting a blanket birthday party? Learn more here.
If you live within 30 miles of Westerville, Ohio . . .
We offer in our workshop all the supplies needed to complete your blankets. We have fleece in numerous colors, styles and different prints (all age appropriate) for only $12 for each blanket. You can choose your own fleece, or we can pre-select a variety for you.
Each fleece kit includes the material ready to cut and fringe, the fringe cutting template, sample fringe cut on 2 sides, the special tag (already attached) ensuring the blanket will stay with the child when they move from placement to placement, the packaging and shipping we provide so that blankets reach children in foster care and the opportunity to be a part of our ministry.
Everything will be ready for you to pick up so that you are in and out of the Blanket Workshop, ready for your blanket making party, in less than 15 minutes. Below is our graphic illustrating the process.
If you live more than 30 miles from Westerville, Ohio
The blanket-making event process is a little different if you don't live within driving distance of our workshop.
You can order from our website fleece blanket kits that include all the supplies needed to complete your blankets. We have fleece in numerous colors, styles and different prints (all age appropriate) for only $15 for each blanket. Just tell us how many blankets you want to make, and we will select a variety of fleece for you.
Each fleece kit includes the material ready to cut and fringe, the fringe cutting template, sample fringe already cut on 2 sides, the special tag (already attached), ensuring the blanket will stay with the child when they move from placement to placement, the packaging and shipping we provide so that blankets reach children in foster care and the opportunity to be a part of our ministry.
Your blanket kits will be shipped to you at no additional cost to you thanks to the generosity of our corporate partner, United Health Care Community Plan.
Rather than shipping your completed blankets to us, we encourage you to donate them to a children's service or foster care agency in your area. Check out our Delivering Blankets page for suggestions and a list of agencies in each state.
The blanket-making event process is a little different if you don't live within driving distance of our workshop.
You can order from our website fleece blanket kits that include all the supplies needed to complete your blankets. We have fleece in numerous colors, styles and different prints (all age appropriate) for only $15 for each blanket. Just tell us how many blankets you want to make, and we will select a variety of fleece for you.
Each fleece kit includes the material ready to cut and fringe, the fringe cutting template, sample fringe already cut on 2 sides, the special tag (already attached), ensuring the blanket will stay with the child when they move from placement to placement, the packaging and shipping we provide so that blankets reach children in foster care and the opportunity to be a part of our ministry.
Your blanket kits will be shipped to you at no additional cost to you thanks to the generosity of our corporate partner, United Health Care Community Plan.
Rather than shipping your completed blankets to us, we encourage you to donate them to a children's service or foster care agency in your area. Check out our Delivering Blankets page for suggestions and a list of agencies in each state.
Promotional Materials
Do you have promotional material or videos I can show to my group?
My TEDx talk is just under 5 minutes and tells one way how a child comes into care through the school system and the next part shares how I founded MVOB 19 years ago!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Fy5xJ4FdXs
MVOB and some of our faithful Blanket Angels were featured on NBC4 News in Columbus. Don't miss this great story!
https://www.nbc4i.com/news/my-very-own-blanket-in-westerville-produces-more-than-expected/
The Story of My Very Own Blanket. This is a great way to introduce volunteers to MVOB. The video (about 6 minutes) shows how MVOB started, why we do what we do, and the many ways that volunteers get involved. (No sound but lots of great photos)
Channel 4 news with Rick Reitzel, Colleen Marshall and Mike Jackson. Again about 1 minute!
https://www.facebook.com/NBC4Columbus/videos/10154985782607751/
Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/myveryownblanket) for news and photos of blanket makers, new blankets and events.
My TEDx talk is just under 5 minutes and tells one way how a child comes into care through the school system and the next part shares how I founded MVOB 19 years ago!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Fy5xJ4FdXs
MVOB and some of our faithful Blanket Angels were featured on NBC4 News in Columbus. Don't miss this great story!
https://www.nbc4i.com/news/my-very-own-blanket-in-westerville-produces-more-than-expected/
The Story of My Very Own Blanket. This is a great way to introduce volunteers to MVOB. The video (about 6 minutes) shows how MVOB started, why we do what we do, and the many ways that volunteers get involved. (No sound but lots of great photos)
Channel 4 news with Rick Reitzel, Colleen Marshall and Mike Jackson. Again about 1 minute!
https://www.facebook.com/NBC4Columbus/videos/10154985782607751/
Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/myveryownblanket) for news and photos of blanket makers, new blankets and events.
Volunteer at our workshop
My group/family would like to schedule a time to come to your workshop and make some blankets. When can we do that?
We welcome volunteers Monday thru Friday mornings, 9 am to Noon. If you have more than 5 people in your group, it’s best to call (614) 530-3327 to let us know you’re coming so we’re sure to have room for you to work.
We welcome volunteers Monday thru Friday mornings, 9 am to Noon. If you have more than 5 people in your group, it’s best to call (614) 530-3327 to let us know you’re coming so we’re sure to have room for you to work.
I have photos of our group making blankets. Can you use them?
Yes, we would love to share them. We like to post photos on Facebook to thank our blanket angels for your donation.
Please be aware that by sharing your photos with us you are giving your permission to use them on Facebook, our website, newsletter or in other promotional material.
Individuals will be identified by first name only, if available. Please send photos to [email protected].
Yes, we would love to share them. We like to post photos on Facebook to thank our blanket angels for your donation.
Please be aware that by sharing your photos with us you are giving your permission to use them on Facebook, our website, newsletter or in other promotional material.
Individuals will be identified by first name only, if available. Please send photos to [email protected].
Other ways to get involved
I can’t make blankets right now. Can I get involved in other fundraising ways?
Yes. Although MVOB relies almost entirely on volunteers to carry out our mission, we do have operating expenses that must be covered. Financial donations are vital to meeting these costs. You can contribute in a number of ways.
Quilt shows. Each year, we sponsor a show of beautiful handmade quilts donated by our Blanket Angels. Details and photos will be posted on our website closer to the date. Join our mailing list to receive news of upcoming events in our newsletters.
Yes. Although MVOB relies almost entirely on volunteers to carry out our mission, we do have operating expenses that must be covered. Financial donations are vital to meeting these costs. You can contribute in a number of ways.
Quilt shows. Each year, we sponsor a show of beautiful handmade quilts donated by our Blanket Angels. Details and photos will be posted on our website closer to the date. Join our mailing list to receive news of upcoming events in our newsletters.
Make a Donation. You can make a donation by sending a check or by credit card on our website. A gift can be as modest as $20 to sponsor one blanket, a one-time gift of any amount, or a recurring donation. Donate here. These blankets will get into the hands of our senior generation in assisted living facilities or a disabled adult at an adult day care.
Coins for Kids in Care Bags. An easy way to make a big difference is our Coins for Kids in Care bags. We offer zip-top bags like the one pictured for just $.15 each. You, your children, social group, co-workers or classmates can collect spare change that you can donate to MVOB.
Purchase bags here
Give While You Shop
Kroger Community Rewards. You can earn donations for My Very Own Blanket just by shopping at Kroger using your Plus Card. Learn how to enroll here. MVOB account number: CG546.
Coins for Kids in Care Bags. An easy way to make a big difference is our Coins for Kids in Care bags. We offer zip-top bags like the one pictured for just $.15 each. You, your children, social group, co-workers or classmates can collect spare change that you can donate to MVOB.
Purchase bags here
Give While You Shop
Kroger Community Rewards. You can earn donations for My Very Own Blanket just by shopping at Kroger using your Plus Card. Learn how to enroll here. MVOB account number: CG546.
Employer Programs
Businesses and corporations offer employee programs to community non-profits when their employees donate funds or volunteer time. Check with your employer to see if you can participate!
Businesses and corporations offer employee programs to community non-profits when their employees donate funds or volunteer time. Check with your employer to see if you can participate!
HoursMonday - Friday: 9 am - Noon
Closed Saturday and Sunday |
Address |
Telephone |
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My Very Own Blanket is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Tax ID 90-0198206 MVOB Privacy Policy
Thank you for your donation to support MVOB's mission to provide handmade blankets to children in foster care and children in need.
No goods or services are provided in exchange for contributions to My Very Own Blanket.
Thank you for your donation to support MVOB's mission to provide handmade blankets to children in foster care and children in need.
No goods or services are provided in exchange for contributions to My Very Own Blanket.
