It’s a story that warms hearts—and bodies. Valley Knits, organized by Isabel Baxter-Paris ’25 will be distributing hand-knitted and hand-crocheted hats and scarves throughout Court Square in Springfield this winter. Volunteers will tie pieces to lamp posts and benches and anywhere they can, Baxter-Paris said. Each item has a tag attached that reads, “If you’re cold and you need this, please take it.”
Baxter-Paris began organizing this project while she was a fifth grader at Lander-Grinspoon Academy in Northampton. In three years, an army of knitters from Amherst to Baltimore has made more than 500 scarves and hats. WEBS knitting supply donates the yarn.
“In these challenging times,” she added, “the need for warm items for the housing insecure is greater than when we first started this project. It feels wonderful to know that we are playing a small role in keeping the Valley warm this winter. I encourage anyone who knows how to knit to join us in knitting scarves and hats.” Those interested can email her directly.