HUNTSVILLE, Ala. —
Red Cross is giving a little back to those who have given so much for all of us. They’re making masks for veterans in need. Sewing for former soldiers is not a new idea. The inspiration dates back to over a century ago.
We spoke with Hunter Smart, the Program Manager for the “Service to the Armed Forces Program” of the Red Cross Alabama Mississippi Region. Smart tells our reporter, “Red Cross had a program back in WWI called “Knit your Bit”. They had volunteers from around the country essentially knitting socks, helmet liners, coverings for casts and crochet quilt lap blankets for injured wheelchair patients. That’s kind of where this program stemmed from.”
And now the idea has once again found it’s place. This time-- in the 21st century during the coronavirus pandemic.
Under the “Service to the Armed Forces Program”, sewing groups in the Alabama and Mississippi Region of the American Red Cross are making masks for our veterans. The Red Cross then helps with the delivery and distribution. Smart says, “Local sewing and knitting clubs and companies that have converted to making masks or face coverings to essentially support what we support-- which is military members, veterans, and their family members.”
As a veteran himself, Program Manager, Hunter Smart, says it’s a cause that hits close to home. He adds, “Numerous veterans have died. And now that the VA is opening back up-- the VA clinics and hospitals-- it is a mandate that all patients have a face covering. And some veterans are coming in with a bandana or something that’s just insufficient. So, we want to work with these amazing groups to be that donor advocate.”
The program just began last week. But it is already bringing change. Smart says, “Just shy of 200 being dropped off tomorrow and that’s going to be at Tut Fann VA home in Huntsville.”
Next is the VA Clinic in Huntsville and the Fox Clinic on Redstone Arsenal.
Another 200 masks will be given to Bill Nichols State Veterans Home in Alexander City.
Smart says more and more sewers are getting involved. And it’s all thanks to the generosity of the community. He adds, “This has been kind of, a way to channel their passion for giving back to veterans and the military community.”
Organizers tell our reporter, they’re still in need of a few helping hands. To get involved, donate, or become a sewer for the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces Program, email Hunter.Smart@redcross.org to be linked into the program.