Quilting with kindness

Baie Verte’s Wilma Hennebury has donated 30 quilts to Ronald Mcdonald House

Wilma Hennebury recently donated her 30th quilt in five years to Ronald Mcdonald House in St. John’s.

Hennebury, from Baie Verte, makes and donates six quilts — two for boys, two for girls and two baby quilts — each June as part of her year-round quilting hobby.

Wilma Hennebury and her grandson, Jack, check out the plaque recognizing her contributions.

“I have been quilting for nearly 40 years,” she said. “It’s my passion.

“I thoroughly enjoy every stitch that I sew. It’s my ‘me’ time.”

While she quilts throughout the year, Hennebury creates her donation quilts in a single week in June. Each quilt is made with 100 per cent cotton on top, with a flannel backing, and she covers the costs herself.

“I think flannel gives warmth to the child as they cuddle under one of my quilts,” Hennebury said. “Each quilt costs approximately $50 (to make), but that is not including labour, of course.

“They are made with love; there is no price on that.”

Ronald Mcdonald House has recognized Hennebury’s contribution with a wall plaque at the facility.

“My name is on a bookend on a wall there now as I am a repeat contributor,” Hennebury said. “That touched my heart to see my name.”

That recognition pales in comparison to the joy she feels at her quilts being used by their recipients.

“Knowing that some child is wrapped in one of my quilts gives me a very warm feeling,” she said. “I have no idea where my 30 quilts have gone. I hope they are received and used with the same love that went into every stitch.”

Hennebury invites any quilter to make a donation to Ronald Mcdonald House.

“Anyone can donate quilts to this worthwhile cause, they accept quilts of all sizes,” Hennebury said. “These quilts are going home with a child who has stayed at Ronald Mcdonald House and if he/she has a sibling with them, these children receive one too. Therefore, the demand for quilts can be quite high at times.”