Amazing Grace Pillowcase Project: Sewing Comfort for Veterans and Children

Right in the heart of Steubenville, Ohio, something special is happening. The Amazing Grace Pillowcase Project, started by Mary Albaugh, is weaving love and hope into the lives of veterans and children.

Mary took her passion for sewing and turned it into a powerful gesture of kindness. Nearly 20,000 pillowcases later, this nonprofit keeps showing just how much community and compassion can do.

The Birth of a Mission

Mary Albaugh’s mother used to say, *Just do it*, and that phrase stuck with her. More than a decade ago, Mary began a journey that’s now touched thousands.

She blended her love of sewing with her desire to give back, launching the Amazing Grace Pillowcase Project. At first, she aimed for 10,000 pillowcases in 10 years.

But with help from volunteers and donations—some coming from 26 states, Alaska, and even Switzerland—she’s nearly doubled that in 12 years. It’s honestly kind of amazing how far a simple idea can go.

A Community Effort

Mary’s vision was never just about numbers. She wanted to build a fellowship, a real sense of togetherness.

Each month, a group of women meets up to sew pillowcases. They start with a pledge and prayer at 10 a.m., break for lunch, and usually finish around 3 p.m.

Anyone can join in, even if you’ve never touched a sewing machine. Some folks iron, others pin, and everyone pitches in however they can.

Impact on Veterans and Children

The pillowcases aren’t just fabric—they’re little symbols of care. For veterans, especially those in hospice, the pillowcases often have their service branch embroidered right on them.

Some veterans have even chosen to be laid to rest with their pillowcases. That says a lot about what these gifts mean.

For kids in hospitals, like those at the Ronald McDonald House, pillowcases come in bright colors or favorite characters. It’s a small comfort, but it can make a hospital stay a bit less scary.

Stories of Hope

Carla Woodward, a volunteer coordinator for Valley Hospice, shared a story that really sticks with you. There was a little girl who loved Bluey, and part of her whispered wish was for Bluey to visit her.

The Amazing Grace Pillowcase team made her a pillowcase with Bluey on it. Small acts like that—well, they really matter when times are tough.

Joining the Mission

The project always needs more hands and hearts. You don’t need any sewing experience, honestly.

There’s ironing, pinning, and plenty of ways to help. Fabric donations are especially helpful and keep things moving.

As Mary often says, *It’s not just a pillowcase. It’s an act of love, and a symbol of hope.* That’s the heart of it.

How to Get Involved

If you feel inspired to help out, here are a few ways you can jump in:

• Join a monthly sewing session—no experience needed.
• Donate fabric or sewing machines to keep the pillowcases coming.
• Spread the word and help bring in more support.

Want more info or ready to get involved? Visit the Amazing Grace Pillowcase Project page to learn more.

Conclusion

The Amazing Grace Pillowcase Project really highlights how much a community can do when it comes together. It’s kind of wild to think that a simple pillowcase could mean so much, but Mary Albaugh and her team have shown just that.

They’ve brought comfort to thousands of veterans and kids, and honestly, that’s no small thing. Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of fabric and a whole lot of heart to make a real difference.