Hats for the Homless Project
Join Us in Spreading Warmth & Kindness
Whether you choose to donate or create, you can help us make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. Our mission is simple: to provide cozy, hand-crocheted beanies to the homeless, financially struggling families, and those affected in natural disasters.
Donations Warm Heads
How It Works
Your donation, big or small, can make a significant impact. Every dollar you contribute goes directly toward purchasing yarn to create cozy, hand-crocheted hats for the homeless and financially struggling families in our community.
For just $3, you can make a diffrence. These beanies are crafted with warmth and comfort in mind:
Double-layered crochet design to keep ears warm in the coldest weather.
Where Viola Panther Donates
- Friends of the Night People: 394 Hudson St, Buffalo, NY 14201
- Merciful HELP Center: 1045 W 146th St, Carmel, IN 4603
- Warriors Center for Women: 9145 Mineral Wells Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654
- Stewpot Community Services: 1100 W. Capitol St. Jackson, MS 39203
See Hats We've Made...
Volunteer to Make a Hat
Yarn Guidelines
Preferred Yarn Type: We recommend size 4 (medium weight) acrylic yarn for the best balance of warmth, durability, and style.
Alternative Yarn Types: You can use other types of yarn, but please avoid anything lighter than size 4 to ensure the beanies provide adequate warmth.
Hooks and Needles:- Use any hook or needle size recommended for the yarn you choose.
- We kindly ask you to avoid using a larger hook or needle than what is recommended, as this can create larger holes in the fabric, reducing warmth. Keeping the stitches tight ensures maximum coziness!
- If you prefer to knit instead of crochet, feel free to contribute knitted hats.
- Knitting machines are also welcome, as they can help produce hats efficiently while maintaining the quality and warmth we aim for.
How to Get Started
We encourage creativity and individuality when it comes to making your hats, but remember: the main focus is warmth, especially for the ears, as these hats will help people stay cozy during the winter months. Follow these detailed steps to get started:
1. Choose Your Yarn- Select size 4 (medium weight) acrylic yarn or a thicker yarn for added warmth.
- If you prefer lighter yarn, consider doubling the strands to create a thicker fabric.
- Acrylic yarn is durable, easy to care for, and provides excellent insulation, making it an ideal choice.
2. Select Your Tools- Use any hook or needle size recommended for the yarn you choose, but avoid using larger sizes to minimize holes in the fabric.
- Knitting or crocheting is welcome, and if you have a knitting machine, feel free to use it to create high-quality hats efficiently.
3. Design Your Hat- You are free to design your hat to your liking!
- Some tips for ensuring warmth:
- Double-layer the rim of your beanie by folding it over for extra ear coverage.
- Use a thicker yarn or double-strand your yarn to make the hat denser and better suited for the cold.
4. Get Creative with Styles- While beanies are a great choice, you can also make other styles, like ski hats, earflap hats, or slouchy hats, as long as the design prioritizes warmth.
- Consider adding functional features like earflaps, pom-poms, or long ties—whatever works to make the hat cozy and practical for winter weather.
5. Keep the Purpose in Mind- These hats are meant for the winter and colder months, so always focus on making them warm, durable, and comfortable.
- Think about what you’d want in a hat to stay warm on the chilliest days, and design with that in mind.
6. Find a Local Organization or Individual in Need- Once your hats are complete, identify shelters, community centers, or individuals in your area who could benefit from your creations.
- Some suggestions include homeless shelters, women’s shelters, youth organizations, or even local coat drives.
Finished?
Once your hats are complete, you’ll need to decide where to donate them. Please note:
Helpers are responsible for purchasing their own yarn and supplies, and for covering any costs associated with delivering the hats to their chosen locations.- We deeply appreciate your generosity, time, and effort in supporting this cause!
Ideas for Where to Donate Your Hats:
Here are the shelters we donate our hats, you can join us or pick your own!- Friends of the Night People: 394 Hudson St, Buffalo, NY 14201
- Merciful HELP Center: 1045 W 146th St, Carmel, IN 4603
- Warriors Center for Women: 9145 Mineral Wells Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654
- Stewpot Community Services: 1100 W. Capitol St. Jackson, MS 39203
Here are some suggestions for places that often welcome warm winter hats for those in need:
Homeless Shelters- Reach out to shelters in your area that assist unhoused individuals during the colder months.
- Example shelters:
- Salvation Army Centers
- Local missions or soup kitchens
Women’s Shelters- These organizations often serve women and children who have left unsafe situations and can benefit from warm clothing donations.
Youth Centers and Foster Care Agencies- Many of these organizations care for children who may need winter essentials, including hats.
Community Coat Drives- Check for seasonal coat and winter gear drives organized by schools, churches, or local businesses in your area.
Food Pantries- Some food pantries also distribute winter clothing and accessories alongside their food donations.
Veteran Assistance Programs- Look for organizations that help veterans, especially those experiencing homelessness, such as the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
Schools and Daycares- Contact schools or daycare centers in lower-income areas to see if they could use warm hats for their students.
Your Local Community- If you know families or individuals in your community who are struggling financially, consider gifting hats to them directly.
Tips for Sending Your Hats:- Call or email the organization beforehand to confirm they accept handmade hats and ask about any specific requirements.
- Consider packaging the hats neatly with a kind note or tag explaining the purpose of the donation.
Thank you for taking the initiative to support those in need with your handmade hats! Together, we can make a difference, one stitch at a time.
Join the "Wall of Hats"
Once you’ve finished creating your hat and are considering donating it, feel free to upload a photo of your hat(s) to this form.
Your creations will be featured on the wall of hats alongside other volunteers and Viola Panther. At the end of the year, we’ll put together a newsletter showcasing all the hats made.
Stay in the Loop: Join Our Mailing List!
Want to see the impact your contributions have made? Sign up for our mailing list to receive updates about our hat-making journey!