Gila Herald Staff Reports
THATCHER — The Thatcher VFW Auxiliary Post 10385 and the SE AZ Sew and Sews are joining forces to invite the community to a special, hands-on event dedicated to comforting the children of America’s fallen military personnel and first responders.
A Community Sew Day will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the VFW Post, located at 3481 W. 8th Street in Thatcher. Local residents are encouraged to drop in for the entire day or just spare a couple of hours to support this incredibly worthy cause.
Wrapping Children of Heroes in Love
The focus of the event is to design and craft custom quilts and blankets for the Project Linus Snowball Express, a major initiative supported by the Gary Sinise Foundation. The Snowball Express program honors fallen heroes by providing supportive, therapeutic experiences and comforting gifts to their surviving spouses and children.
The local organizations have committed to a goal of 30 completed quilts and blankets to send to these children. To meet this target, they are calling on the generosity and helping hands of the entire Gila Valley community.
No Sewing Experience? No Problem!
Organizers emphasize that you do not need to be a master quilter — or even know how to thread a needle — to make a massive difference.
“Bring your hands, we will find something for them to do to help with this worthy project,” said event organizer Linda Curtis.
Volunteers of all skill levels are needed to help the assembly line run smoothly. The team is actively looking for:
- Crocheters
- Ironers
- Fabric cutters and general helpers
If you would rather contribute from home, the organizers are also gratefully accepting donations of completed, unused quilts or blankets. Donated blankets should be 45″ x 60″ or larger to be shipped out with the Project Linus drive.
How to Get Involved
- What: Project Linus Snowball Express Community Sew Day
- When: Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Where: VFW Post 10385, 3481 W. 8th Street, Thatcher, AZ
- Cost: Free to participate! Just bring your time, energy, or blanket donations.
For additional information on how to volunteer, donate materials, or drop off blankets, please contact:
- Linda Curtis at 928-235-0606
- Email:
lindacurtisvfwaux10385@yahoo.com
