Project H.A.N.D.S.® (Helping Angels National Donated Support) is an organized effort by residents in more than 70 RHF communities to partner with organizations in their own communities who provide services to the homeless or those in need.  H.A.N.D.S.® volunteers sew, knit and crochet needed items such as mittens, hats, scarves, blankets and stuffed animals for families in need.

What does it take?

Donations of yarn, fabric and money provide the materials used by the residents in their work. Donations are sought through the usual networks of churches, friends, families of residents, staff, and community groups.

Who is doing the work?

While the initial idea was to have residents of Retirement Housing Foundation properties doing the knitting, crocheting and sewing, several of the properties have found that neighbors, members of local churches, Girl Scout troops, knitting guilds, family and friends are also eager to have a local group to support, and have joined “HANDS” to create many needed items.

The ideas generated by some of the groups have expanded the original idea. Now some groups are making small personal item tote bags from donated fabric scraps. Others are making small dolls from fabric scraps as well. A group in Texas sewed 500 Christmas stocking for their local Police Department to distribute during the holidays.

Each Retirement Housing Foundation building that decides to support Project HANDS® has its own flavor and network of partners in the community.

How Can You Help?

1.  Contact your nearest Retirement Housing Foundation property to see if they are participating.  Ask for specifics at that property.

2.  Start a donation drive in your church, neighborhood or group of friends and family.

3.  Encourage your church to have a loose change offering to support Project HANDS®.

4.  Talk about the project and get local yarn shops, craft stores, businesses to donate yarn and other materials.

5.  Set aside some time to do a little creating yourself!