Red Scarves for Orphans

Knitters are notoriously into giving to charities. Other than the normal altruistic reasons for donating, I think knitters particularly enjoy creating items for recipients who really appreciate them. I know I do.

Red Scarf Project 2008 is a program set up by the Orphan Foundation of America to send Valentine's Day gifts to college-bound foster youth who have aged out of foster care. They are braving university life to better their lives without the emotional support of a family.

Last year, Now Norma Knits advertised the Red Scarf Project on her blog and the response was overwhelming -- so much so that OFA has had to scale back the initiative and put stricter guidelines. Norma has setup another site and a raffle to encourage people to donate.

Details for donating are after the jump.


Red Scarf Specs

When: Send your scarf between September 1 through October 15, 2007. They don't have storage any other time, so please do not send your scarf before or after.

Where: Orphan Foundation of America
The Red Scarf Project
21351 Gentry Drive
Sterling, VA 20166

Style: Your scarf should be appropriate for either gender.

Color: While any variation of red is the preferred color, any unisex color will do: such as black, navy, teal, olive or gold.

Size: The width should be 5" to 8" and the length should be around 60". The scarf should be able to be wrapped around the neck with the ends tied in front.

Yarn: The yarn should be soft -- no mohair. Your yarn weight should be in the DK to Aran range -- no lace or super-chunky yarns.

Finishing Touches: OFA has made it clear they want the ends weaved in. I shudder to think of people donating unfinished knitting, but it must happen. They also recommend a personal card identifying you or your organization, washing instructions or other personal touches. Gift cards, burger bucks or other donations are optional.

I am knitting the free for charity pattern Irish Hiking Scarf with Lion Brand's Wool-Ease worsted weight in Ranch Red. I am also resorting to catsploitation to chronicle my progress.

Are you also knitting or crocheting a red scarf for the initiative? Link to your picture or blog here in the comments. I'd love to see it.