The mission was to provide a small taste of home to our deployed troops, who selflessly sacrifice so much for our safety and freedom. The United States military personnel face challenging and unfamiliar environments, making the significance of receiving handmade pillowcases far greater than just bedding. Deployed men and women often endure long periods of separation from their families and loved ones. Handmade pillowcases symbolize their connection to home, reminding them of the love and support waiting for them beyond their military duties.

The Louisville Area Master Clothing volunteers and several Louisville County Homemaker Clubs completed 850 personalized pillowcases to comfort deployed troops. They crafted these pillowcases from scratch using donated fabric, allowing for custom creations.

As the Bullitt County FCS agent, I collaborated with FCS agents, Master Clothing Volunteers and Bullitt County Homemakers to participate in the sewing of pillowcases.  Bullitt County had 5 Homemaker and two guests work on 2 days to create 35 pillowcases. Homemakers created 27 pillowcases at their workday, but then took fabric home to create more.  

The program initially had a significant impact on those involved.  As the project progressed on their workday, two participants learned how to use a serger and excitedly said their involvement brought their sewing level to a new level as they gained confidence in how to serge.