Rainy Day Blanket Making with MRISJ
How do you spend rainy days?
Well, on April 3, as the rain came in and the wind worsened, I spent my morning making a fleece tie blanket alongside fellow students (including a few other Comment writers!) at an event hosted by the Martin Richard Institute of Social Justice (MRISJ), led by student Ethan Figueroa (he/him).
The finished blankets would then be donated to one of three nonprofits that all aid the homeless: a local Old Colony YMCA branch which serves over 90 struggling families; Rosie’s Place, an organization focused on helping vulnerable women maintain their dignity as they seek out opportunities and security in their lives; or Schools on Wheels, a nonprofit that supports children experiencing homelessness and poverty. Everyone in attendance voted on which organization to donate these blankets to, with Rosie’s Place earning the donated blankets in the end. Any unfinished blankets are to be completed by students working in the MRISJ and then donated.
The blankets are easy to make and an entirely no-sew process; just a simple sequence of measuring, cutting, and tying a double knot on all four sides, making them accessible to anyone who wants to take part in a calming craft while helping those in need. The materials can be sourced from your local craft store, so consider taking some time to make a blanket of your own—be it for others or to keep for yourself.
While speaking with Ethan Figueroa, he said that he wants to tell others to just “go for it” when it comes to participating in the Martin Richard Institute of Social Justice. There’s plenty of good opportunities for community service, networking, and meeting friendly people while working with the institute.
I encourage everyone to try coming to one of their upcoming events later this month such as the School on Wheels Service Project on the 15 or their Earth Day Service Project happening on the 26. Or even sign up for their mailing list, which can be found at the bottom of their website.
