Community Outreach

Memory Quilts

The Memory Quilts program is a particularly sensitive initiative in which our members lovingly create small quilts to provide comfort to those who have experienced the loss of an infant. These are donated to Grand River Hospital's Bereavement Program. In some cases, these quilts may also be directed to the neonatal intensive care unit, or special cases in the Emergency Department when hospital staff identify a need. Typically, 30-50 quilts are donated through this program, including all-white quilts to accommodate for specific religious or spiritual needs.

This is a Waterloo County Quilters’ Guild sponsored outreach project.

Co-ordinator: Pamela C

Memory Quilt Guidelines

Memory Quilt Guidelines

To ensure that Memory Quilts are appropriate and respectful for their intended recipients, please follow these guidelines carefully:

Size: Quilts should be between 25 to 30 inches square.

Design: The design is up to you, but it should be suitable for babies. A simple pattern option is to use 25 squares of 5½ or 6½ inches. All-white quilts are specifically made for families whose religious beliefs include white as a symbol of mourning. These quilts must have no religious references, human images, or animals.

Materials: Flannelette backing and polyester batting are preferred for these quilts. You may use your own fabric, or kits are available for your convenience. 

Labels: Labels for your quilt are available from the project coordinator, Pamela Clarkson.

By following these guidelines, you help us ensure that each Memory Quilt serves its purpose of providing comfort and solace during a family’s most difficult time.

If you would like to contribute or need more information, please contact our coordinator. Thank you for helping us extend this small but meaningful gesture to families in need.