When we have a Quilts of Valor Presentation, the veterans and the audience are always mesmerized by the stunning artistry, colors and patterns with which each quilt exudes its own personality.
About two years ago, I began putting my hopes into words and began speaking to local quilt guilds and telling them about the national Quilts of Valor Foundation program and the overwhelming responses from the veterans who received quilts during these patriotic ceremonies. At that time, our closest Quilts of Valor group was in Hamburg, and they have been wonderful about folding our veterans into their own lists of nominated veterans, and then coming to Jamestown to conduct presentation ceremonies.
When the quilt guild at Quilter’s Haven in Lakewood decided they wanted to be the local QOV group, it was wonderful news! The Hamburg ladies are still our friends and have helped with extra quilts when needed, but it’s easier for them now that Chautauqua Region Quilts of Valor is on the scene and all in.
The Chautauqua Region QOV held 3 presentations in 2024 and 2 more large ones this year, and since we are truly Blessed to have many veterans in Chautauqua County, we know that we’ll be keeping them busy.
An average quilt, made to the QOV size specifications, costs an average of $350-$400 depending on the simplicity/complexity of the pattern. The quilters purchase all the fabric, the longarm stitching is donated by the shop owner, and the Guild reimburses the shop for the batting. Since they love sewing and making quilts for veterans, it was hard for them to nail down the hours used for one quilt. Thoughtful time picking colors and fabrics for the different patterns and cutting the various pieces out, are both time consumers before quilt construction even begins. So, let’s just assume that there are quite a few hours invested as well.
If you would like to send them a token of your appreciation for their outstanding time and dedication, monetary contributions can be sent to: Chautauqua Region Quilts of Valor, 135 Fairmount Ave, Lakewood, NY, 14750.
