Stitching community together: Limestone Quilters’ Guild adds cheer to VON Meals on Wheels for over a decade
Having donated hundreds of handmade, quilted placemats over the years, the Limestone Quilters’ Guild continues to bring warmth, comfort and a personal touch to VON’s Meals on Wheels clients across the Kingston area.
Behind the handmade placemats is a large network of volunteers. “We’re a group of about 125 to 150 quilters,” says Wendy Nicol, Interim Coordinator of the Limestone Quilters’ Guild. “Quilting is what brings us together, but giving back is a big part of who we are, and partnering with VON allows our creativity and generosity to directly support people in our community.”
The placemat initiative, championed by Kathy Breau, has become a meaningful way for members of all skill levels to contribute. Recognizing that VON makes a real difference in the community, Kathy spearheaded a partnership to direct the guild’s placemat initiative to Meals on Wheels clients.
For guild members, knowing where their work ends up makes the partnership especially meaningful. “It’s very rewarding to think about someone sitting down to a meal with one of our placemats, knowing it might cheer things up just a little,” Wendy shares. “We’re makers, and it means a lot to know that what we create is genuinely appreciated.”
VON’s Meals on Wheels program delivers affordable, nourishing hot or frozen meals directly to clients’ homes through friendly, caring volunteers. The program supports older adults, adults with disabilities and individuals recovering from illness or surgery, helping them remain independent and well-nourished in their own homes.
According to Anne-Marie Malajczuk, Program Coordinator of the Meals on Wheels & Diners’ Club at VON, the guild’s contributions highlight the many ways community members can make a difference. “Meals on Wheels volunteerism is not limited to delivering meals,” she says. “The Quilters’ Guild contributes their skills, creativity and time in a way that complements our service. This demonstrates that one does not have to volunteer in a traditional way to make an impact.”
Clients eagerly anticipate the placemats each year. “The clients are thrilled,” Anne-Marie shares. “One client commented on how she uses her placemat every day when the volunteers arrive with her hot meal to eat her lunch on. Another person commented on how she looks forward to receiving a new placemat every year and loves the different colours and patterns.”
For VON, the longevity of the partnership speaks volumes. “This long-term community support is wonderful,” Anne-Marie adds. “The members of the Limestone Quilters’ Guild recognize the value of the program and realize how the simple act of making a placemat can brighten someone’s day.”
At its core, the collaboration is about shared purpose. As Wendy puts it, “This partnership is about working together and giving someone a lift, even if it’s just for a moment. That’s what makes it so special—everyone involved feels that sense of connection.”
Become a partner or volunteer with VON! Visit our website to learn more about these opportunities: von.ca/volunteer.
