Project Linus, a volunteer organization that provides comfort and security to seriously ill and traumatized children through handmade blankets, has created a new chapter on Whidbey Island.

Cindi Zimmerman will serve as the chapter coordinator for the area. Her volunteer duties will include recruiting “blanketeers” to make new, handmade, washable blankets and afghans, as well as arranging distribution with organizations such as hospitals, shelters, social service agencies, etc.

“I first heard about Project Linus from one of my clients. She has a daughter that was bitten by the family dog while her husband was deployed and they were visiting family in Oregon,” said Zimmerman. “The hospital had given her a blanket made by the local chapter there. The little girl continued to carry the blanket everywhere for weeks after that. It dawned on me that we could use a chapter here. Our goal is to serve all of Whidbey Island and to eventually expand to service the San Juan Islands.”

Since its inception, Project Linus has grown tremendously and has delivered more than 3.8 million blankets. There are many opportunities to participate in the success of this project on Whidbey Island.

In addition to individuals, churches, social groups and senior centers, clubs such as 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts and schools can coordinate projects to make blankets.

For more information contact Zimmerman by phone at 672-0511, via email at projectlinuswhidbey@gmail.com or go to www.projectlinuswhidbey.org.