Ohdeedoh is all about creating happy, healthy homes for families, but for some families with very sick children, "home" is a long-term stay in a hospital room. Project Linus is a national organization whose mission is "to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer blanketeers." This Saturday is Make a Blanket Day at Project Linus. Keep reading to find out what you can do to help, even if you don't sew.

Since its inception 15 years ago, Project Linus has distributed over three million blankets to children in need. This non-denominational organization has 378 chapters located throughout the US that collect handmade blankets of all sizes – from preemie to full-size – from generous "blanketeers".

Why the emphasis on handmade? From the Project Linus website:

It has always been the mission of Project Linus to donate only 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 handmade blankets are from the heart.

The website provides several blanket patterns (including even an easy no-sew fleece blanket) for inspiration. If handmade really isn't your thing, you can also make a donation.

To find out how you can participate in Make a Blanket Day, read the FAQ and find the chapter nearest you.

(Image via How to Crochet a Granny Square Blanket)