The Patriotic Stitchers group held its second annual volunteer appreciation luncheon on April 29 in the Veterans Hall of the Upper Leacock Township War Memorial.

The Patriotic Stitchers is affiliated with the War Memorial Association and honors veterans who are on hospice services by presenting them with patriotic-themed blankets. Each blanket is handmade - either knit, crocheted or quilted - and bears a tag signed by the member who made it. To maximize the number of veterans the group can reach, the Patriotic Stitchers collaborate with hospices in York and Lancaster counties, including Hospice & Community Care, Caring, Amedisys, Compassus, Serenity, and ProMedica/Heartland. It also works closely with the Veterans Affairs hospitals in Coatesville and Lebanon.

Patriotic Stitchers director Jean Summers thanked the more than 40 volunteers present and shared that their collective efforts resulted in the group's presenting more than 1,300 patriotic blankets to veterans over the last three years. ProMedica/Heartland Hospice's Amy Roth Sandrolini, bereavement coordinator, and Christy Trump, administrator, shared stories of how much a patriotic blanket can mean to a hospice patient.

Several stories were shared about the process and impact of presenting a patriotic blanket to a dying veteran. They highlighted the lasting legacy of the work of the Patriotic Stitchers.

Liz Ackerman, executive director of the Northern Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, facilitated a group discussion so that volunteers could learn more about each other. Most volunteers work alone or in small groups, so the event provided an opportunity for them to be together in larger numbers. Rep. Keith Greiner, an early supporter of the Patriotic Stitchers, offered words of appreciation and admiration.

Food was provided by Gracie's on West Main and paid for by ServePro of Manheim.

For information on upcoming events, search for "The Patriotic Stitchers for Veterans" on Facebook. To donate or volunteer with the group, call 717-553-3161.