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KIRKSVILLE, MO --
Saturday was the twelfth annual "Make a Blanket Day" and local volunteers of all ages attended Project Linus at the Shrine Club in Kirksville. 

Fifth grader Haleigh Berry wanted to get involved in all the action.

"Last year my grandma brought me in here and it looked like a lot of fun, so I asked if I could do it this year" said Berry.

The mission of Project Linus is to provide love and a sense of warmth to area children who are ill, traumatized or just in need of a handmade craft given by a loving volunteer.

Chapter coordinator Connie Douvier said it's done out of love.

" For us, it's pretty significant. You know we don't like to see children hurting or going thru those difficult situations. We love to bring comfort to them" said Douvier.

Tammy Jones, owner of Quilted Square, donated a brand new sewing machine to a lucky volunteer for the 8th year in a row.

Door prizes were also given out to volunteers, but that didn't seem to be the reason these ladies showed up today.

It was all about giving back to the community that gives back to them.

"Oh I love it! I do a lot of work with children outside of Wal-Mart. It lets me give back to the community that supports me too" said Champ.

"So many times we hear of volunteer opportunities, but they take us outside of our own area. This is a direct impact in our community" said Douvier.

Organizers say they received almost 300 blankets in the six hour period but the number could rise after more donations pour in.

As far as Haleigh and her first sewing experience. She has a little advice for her fellow friends.

"You guys should really try it because it's really fun and it helps out alot of kids." said Berry.

For more information on how to help Project Linus contact Connie Douvier at (660) 947-4315