By Mary Owen
Two local sisters love to bless others one stitch at a time.
Donna Pikl and Donita Zwolak handcraft quilts for Alexia’s Cozy Covers, a faith-based group of women who make and distribute quilts to foster children, women in residential treatment, women and children in shelters, and others who need the “hug” of a warm blanket during transitional times.
“We started making the quilts when we first met with the founders to start this group,” said Pikl, who also raises sheep and grows vegetables on her rural acreage just outside of Aumsville. “They were trying to get others to catch the vision.”
Alexia’s Cozy Covers began in 2009 with a handful of volunteers who enjoyed making quilts, fleece coverlets, Afghans and other blankets.
The group’s initial outreach was to 18-year-old youth leaving foster care, but soon expanded their efforts to include others in need in the greater mid-Willamette Valley area.
Three years later, the group applied for and received nonprofit status. More than 900 quilts and blankets were donated in the first three years.
“Our plan is for each recipient to choose their own cozy cover to keep forever,” the founders said on the charity’s website.
“Our prayer is that as they wrap themselves in their blanket, they will be reminded of God’s love and protection for them and that we care about them.”
Zwolak, who lives in Stayton, makes most of her quilts at home, and has made close to 100 over the last three years.
“I enjoy making them because it gives someone a nice blanket to help keep them warm and cuddly,” she said.
Due to her busy work schedule, Pikl only works on the second Saturday of the month when the group meets at Salem Evangelical Church.
“I generally work on at least three blankets while I’m there each time,” she said. “At first, we used to table, turn, birth and tie quilts while we were there, but now many complete theirs at home. Now we put together fleece blankets. These are double layered and tied all the way around.
“I just love it, and the thought of these foster children going into the world on their own and choosing a new quilt excites me,” she said. “I am enriched by the love and fellowship of others working on the quilts, and by the beauty that flows into my life. Many other charities ask for quilts and blankets now, so it is far reaching.”
Zwolak’s motivation is the joy of giving.
“A quilt is a blanket of love,” she said. “I like to make simple quilts, and I really enjoy quilting them even though the quilting is very simple.”
Each quilt she makes becomes Pikl’s pet project at the time, she said.
“But putting together the intricate ones with many colors are probably my favorite,” she added.
Both sisters plan to keep quilting with the group, they said.
“I hope our group stays strong for a long time, because I’ve met some very nice ladies,” Zwolak said.
According to Pikl, activities come and go, but she never wants to miss quilting with the group.
“It has been such a great blessing to my life, meeting all the other wonderful ladies that have become a part of my life,” she said.
Alexia’s Cozy Covers is always looking for volunteers or for donations of fabric and supplies, completed handmade blankets and quilts, or funds to purchase necessary items.To donate fabric or supplies or to volunteer on a work day, visit the nonprofit’s website at www.alexiascozycovers.org
