RUMFORD — Michelle Johnson of the fabric department at the Rumford Marden’s recently delivered 25 blankets and quilts to Rumford Hospital’s Emergency Department as part of The Linus Project, a nationwide effort to provide comforting blankets
to very ill and traumatized children.

“These will be very comforting to our young patients,” said Robin Gilbert, nurse manager of the department. “My daughter had her precious ‘blanky’ when she was little, so I know how reassuring they can be.”

All of
the Marden’s stores collect quilts, fleece blankets and knit and
crocheted items from customers and employees. 

Johnson said that Marden’s held a Linus Project collection event in September, complete with raffles, refreshments and giveaways. “Once a year we hold an event, and that’s the time when we count the number of blankets donated. Last year we collected and distributed 3,041 statewide,” she said.

The blankets are not intended for children with minor ailments but for those who have had serious accidents or major illnesses, particularly those that require hospitalization. Gilbert aims to educate everyone in her department about the project and ensure that staff members know where to find the blankets when they are needed.

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