The Shirley Quilters allowed MLA John Horgan to “touch” one of the untouchables at the Sooke Fall Fair.
The Shirley Quilters do not normally make a group quilt, but this year each made a few squares and entered the Quilt of Valour, “Canadian Autumn,” at the Sooke Fall Fair.
Quilts of Valour are made by quilters across the country and they are given to injured soldiers who have returned home. Quilts, such as these, are show in quilt shows across Canada and the U.S. to raise awareness of the need for comfort for injured soldiers.
As of December 2010, the Quilts of Valour organization has been able to deliver over 1,300 quilts to Canada’s injured service members and to veterans. They make no statement of the politics involved in Canada’s military deployment. Their mission is to ensure that our injured Canadian soldiers are recognized fortheir bravery and commitment of their true patriotism to our country.
They have quilts going out to armed forces bases, rehabilitation hospitals and veterans homes right across the country. Long arm quilters have registered their participation in B.C. and Alberta, and Ontario.
They do not know who will receive the quilts, as that information is private. However, Quilts of Valour are hearing back from the soldiers and we know they are being received and treasured.
The Shirley Quilters meet every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m at the Shirley Community Hall.
