The Youth Service Opportunities Project (YSOP) held its bi-annual blanket distribution on Wednesday, September 30, at the Remington Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. YSOP staff and volunteers gave more than 100 handmade blankets to children in kindergarten through fourth grade who attend after-school programming at the clubhouse.
Every blanket was made by hand through YSOP’s intergenerational programming, which brings young people and seniors together across Westchester County to work side by side on service projects. Over recent months, participants of all ages have met to make the blankets, building friendships across generations while making something warm for children in their own community.
“It is events like these that make me remember why we do this work,” said Liza Estony, YSOP Connex Facilitator. “One by one the kids got to pick from a huge stack of colorful blankets and pick out their favorite. Seeing the look of joy on their faces, as well as the volunteers that helped pull all of this together was heartwarming.”
U.S. Congressman George Latimer, New York State Senator Natalia Fernandez, and Westchester County Legislator Terry Clements joined YSOP staff, volunteers, and community members for the event. Together, they handed out the blankets one by one as children picked their favorites and wrapped up just as cooler fall weather begins to settle in.
Congressman George Latimer said, “By bringing together seniors and young people for a greater cause, the Youth Service Opportunities Project and Remington Boys and Girls Club showed the true positive impact of community. Local seniors and students bonded over making handmade blankets, demonstrating how communities can become stronger through service. I am grateful to have seen this firsthand, and look forward to seeing the incredible work ahead through YSOP’s intergenerational programming.”
State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, “Nothing says community like neighbors coming together to care for one another. I am incredibly grateful to the Pelham seniors who put their time and talent into handweaving these beautiful blankets, and to Legislator Terry Clements, YSOP, and the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle for helping make this giveaway possible. Thank you to everyone who contributed to bringing a little extra warmth and comfort to our neighbors this fall.”
YSOP holds the distribution twice a year, and every blanket made in its intergenerational programs goes to children in need in Westchester County.
