Used Sewing Machines

If you have a sewing machine that is ready for retirement and you would like to see it go to a good cause, consider these options:

The Sewing Machine Project: This Wisconsin based program distributes sewing machines to people in need in hurricane devastated areas. They have sent more than 350 machines to New Orleans, as well as providing machines to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

WorkAid: WORKAID tackles poverty in developing countries by supplying disadvantaged people with the tools they need to earn a living. Workaid collects unwanted items, repairs them and sends them to vocational training projects. Workaid is in urgent need of raising funds for operating space.

Quilt with Hope

Quilt & Share Project: Our passion at class221 is teaching people with Down Syndrome and other special needs to make small quilts, table toppers, pillows and wall quilts. Two ways to get involved:

1. You can start teaching special quilters in your own community. The introductory class will focus on developing pre-quilting skills. Intermediate and advanced classes will range from quilting pillows, 20″ table toppers, 40″ crib quilts, through 60″ square throws. (contact Quilt & Share Project)

2. Quilt with Hope: You can organize a local Quilt & Share Benefit Auction to raise funds for your local Down Syndrome advocacy or any other not-for-profit organization. We will be happy to help solicit quilts for your cause. (email for more information)

Sewing for Charity

Charitable Crafters: This organization, based in Duluth, MN, seeks to inspire those that knit, sew, quilt, crochet, spin and weave to make items for charitable donation.

Faith, Hope and Charity Stitches, Inc.: The intent of Faith, Hope and Charity Stitches, Inc., is to assist families’ needs by providing clothing essentials and blankets to newborn through children age five years old.

Serving the Down Syndrome Community

Down Syndrome Association of Hampton Roads: A very active group, committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, helping them reach their full potential by providing family support, education, and social opportunities.

Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinatti: This group offer a full complement of programs for all ages. Particularly interesting is the Adult Matters Program, which is “designed for adults with Down syndrome and their families. Adult Matters is focused on enhancing the lives of adults with Down syndrome by offering a variety of social and educational events that connect the adult to his or her community.”

Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis: Serving a wide geographic area of greater St. Louis and surrounding counties from Springfield, IL to Springfield, MO., DSAGSL offers a full complement of programs for families and individuals with Down Syndrome.

National Down Syndrome Congress: An outstanding advocacy organization of parents and professionals providing information and referral, newsletter, and annual convention addressing all issues affecting people with Down Syndrome.

National Association for Down Syndrome: NADS is the oldest organization in the country serving individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The focus of NADS is to ensure that all persons with Down syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their potential in all aspects of community life. They offer a wealth of information and support.

International Sewing Projects

India Partners: Helping the people of India help themselves, with God’s grace. India Partners is a Christian charity supporting self-help projects in India since 1984: orphanages, schools, agricultural / food projects, medical clinics, sewing schools, disaster relief, literacy, job training, and churches. All are helped regardless of caste, religion, gender, or creed.

Quilting Education

New England Quilt Museum: This non-profit institution founded in 1987 to educate the public about the art, craft, and history of quiltmaking. The museum meets this purpose through its collections, exhibitions, education programs, and outreach activities.