The concept of patriotism can be defined by words like pride, honor, responsibility and appreciation. But actions speak louder than words.

The Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans choose to live their freedoms every day. They exhibit their gratitude by knitting and crocheting blankets and quilts for veterans who are confined to hospice care.

"Our men and women fought for us and the United States, and they're patriotic," said Jean Summers, president of the Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans. "I think (knitting quilts) is a great way to recognize patriotism. They're dedicated to the country. The pledge they took when they went into the service was for life. I'm very grateful."

The Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans is conducting an inaugural live basket auction on Saturday, April 27, from 4 to 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 429, 300 Cocalico St., Ephrata. The purpose of the event is to raise funds for materials and patterns needed for the stitchers to perform their appreciative services for veterans.

"It's a fundraiser, but it's also designed to raise awareness of our veterans and what we do for them," said Summers. "We want veterans to know that they're not forgotten. The women do this on their own time. Some do it on their own. Some meet in area parks or local churches or community centers and do it together. We give them everything they need to make the quilts, but they pick their own styles when they crochet or knit."

The live auction will include more than 50 baskets filled with goodies, gift certificates and coupons for services donated by local businesses. The themed baskets will feature articles related to jewelry, various foodstuffs, artwork, baby items, gardening, wine and pets.

The baskets can be previewed beginning at 4 p.m., and the live auction will start at 6 p.m. Snacks and refreshments will be served.

"I will talk about what the auction is all about and why we are having it," said Summers, a resident of Leola. "It can be an evening of recognizing the needs of local veterans. We reach out to veterans and their families if they're vulnerable. The blankets make them recognize that they're not forgotten."

The Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans works with seven hospice providers, two Veterans Affairs hospitals and nearly 50 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion posts to connect with veterans.

"On the back of each blanket there's a patch that says, 'Thank you for your service to our country,' and the knitter's initials," said Summers. "Many times, our blankets are there during the passing of the veterans. Some are buried with them, but that's up to the family."

Originally established in 2016 as Stitchers for Vets, the Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans only recently became incorporated as a recognized nonprofit. Over the last eight years, the group of 50 mostly local women has knitted over 2,000 blankets for vets.

"I believe strongly that this is God's work," said Summers. "These women do this out of love. We're recognizing what our country means to us and how men and women have fought for our freedom. Many of the women are retired. They've grown up knitting and crocheting, and they've been doing it for years. They just want to continue doing it as a way of giving back to our veterans who have done so much for us."

For additional information about the group, search for "Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans" on Facebook or email jeansummers58@gmail.com.