Comfy Community Service by 4-H

For the last 3 days, San Mateo County 4-Hers and their friends had fun learning how to sew by making pyjamas to support youth served by St. Anthony’s in San Francisco. St. Anthony’s is an organization providing essential support to San Franciscans living in poverty. Every day, with dignity and respect, they offer thousands of the the most vulnerable among us the basics we all need to feel human: a hot meal, fresh clothing, an opportunity to connect with the world around us. That’s where the pyjama project comes in, and why 4-Hers are excited about having a chance to make a difference.

While some 4-Hers are experienced sewers, this represents the first time that many of the attendees had touched a sewing machine, or tried any aspect of sewing. Thanks to the coaching by Linda Litz, a 42 year sewing project leader veteran, by the end of each day looks of apprehension as they approached the fabric have turned into smiles of pride, tempered by respect for what it takes to make pyjama pants!

4-Her Nico Levy prefers working with the serger, but appreciated the chance to experience the entire process from cutting fabric based on a pattern, serging, and machine sewing to create cuddly pyjamas for St. Anthony supported youth. “Pyjamas are my favorite thing to wear, so I’m glad to give someone else the opportunity to snuggle into a pair of pyjama bottoms of their own!”

Thanks to Michael’s in San Mateo for allowing 4-H to use your Community Room for this great project! To learn more about 4-H in Belmont, check out www.belmont4h.org. To find the club nearest you, check out the County 4-H Website at http://ucanr.edu/sites/smsf4h/About/4-H_Clubs/.