American Red Cross – The American Red Cross is pleased to announce that its “quilts for veterans” project will continue this year. In partnership with Gate City Bank, this project brings care and comfort to local veterans through the warmth of quilts.

From September 11 through November 11, local quiltmakers can bring their quilts to a nearby Gate City Bank location for drop off. The Red Cross and partners will later distribute the quilts to VA hospitals, homes and stand-down events across the region.

“We’re proud to continue this valued project supporting our brave veterans and all they’ve given to defend our freedom,” said Karin Luchsinger, senior vice president of Gate City Bank Checking and Customer Engagement. “Providing beautiful quilts like these to help keep them warm is just one of many ways we can express our gratitude for their service.”

Since the program’s inception in 2022, quiltmakers in the Red River Valley and beyond have made and donated hundreds of quilts for veterans through this partnership.

“This community partnership makes a significant difference in the lives of veterans,” said Kimberly Vosseteig, executive director of the American Red Cross serving Eastern North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota. “People across our region are eager to support veterans, especially those who might need an extra helping hand this holiday season.”

DETAILS ABOUT DONATIONS – Quilts and fleece blankets:

·       Must be new and/or made with new materials

·       May be handmade or purchased quilts or fleece blankets

·       Preferably 60” x 80” with neutral, masculine or patriotic themes

·       Since they will be used in hospital and care facilities, they must be sturdy enough to undergo industrial washing and sterilizing process with no loose yarns or strings that could catch on medical equipment.

·       Quilts and blankets will go home with Veterans upon hospital discharge

American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces, together with the Hero Care Network, provides military families with emergency communications, connects them to financial assistance resources, and offers mental health support and information services to military members, veterans and their families. Our regional team provides on average more than 6,000 services to military members, their families and veterans, and reaches on average nearly 3,000 service members through ‘Get to Know Us’ briefings for how to access Red Cross communications support during family emergencies.