Sunny Hill residents are proud to have completed their first two tie blankets for babies in need. Photo by Vanessa Roudabush.

TAMA — On Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Sunny Hill Care Center residents started making blankets for babies in need. These tie blankets are being donated to Tama County Storka Nest and Iowa City Stead Children’s Hospital this year.

“We are making these blankets for the babies that are in need of them, this allows our residents to stay connected with our community and reminds our community that we are still here making a difference,” said Mary Jo Chervany, the Activities Director at Sunny Hill.

The residents hope to make four blankets a month to donate to the two charities.

“Projects like these remind our Residents that they are still needed and have a true purpose in their lives,” said Mary Jo.

Local community members can help by contributing fleece materials for the blankets. The residents need two 1 ¼ yards for each blanket. If you’d like to donate, contact Mary Jo at maryjo@sunnyhillcarecenter.com.

Puppies and babies make the perfect match, and with the residents making this cozy blanket, what baby wouldn’t be snuggly warm underneath it? Photo by Vanessa Roudabush.

Mary Jo and the rest of the staff and residents would love the community’s help, “Sunny Hill is in need of local talent [for] crafting as well [as] for entertaining. If you have any special talents to share, [come see us].”

Starting on Feb. 22 from 4 to 6 p.m., Sunny Hill Care Center will host Craft Activities for 3rd through 5th graders once a month.

“The students will work hand-in-hand with our residents to make a craft they can take home that day. There is no cost to attend. However, an item for donation to Tama County Storks Nest is appreciated,” said Mary Jo.

Seats are limited, and students must call to RSVP at 641-484-4061 and ask for Mary Jo.

Activities Director Mary Jo Chervany helps residents wrangle and wrap the fabric to make the blankets. Photo by Vanessa Roudabush