As an annual community service project Cranberry quilt guild members donated 45 newly constructed backpacks filled with school supplies and treats for students at Helping Hands of Hazleton.

The children and the school were excited to find all the colorful backpacks that became theirs before Christmas.

The guild also gave a significant monetary donation to Faith Church of Hazleton for the ‘Operation Blessing’ program.

In other matters, Guild members held a Holiday social with delicious catered food and fun for all 46 that attended the function.

Following the meal, a year end ‘show and tell’ finished off the evening, with over 28 pieces exhibited, many having holiday flare.

The new year will begin with meetings in March. The meetings will be preceded in the off months by planning sessions for the year’s programs and the upcoming 2024 Quilt Show, tentatively scheduled for September.

A challenge has been issued to all members to construct a two-color quilt; either red and white or blue and white. The size range being from bed quilt to throw to table topper.

Ongoing projects include Quilts of Valor, with five more presentations scheduled. Members are asked to offer applications to worthy candidates. The quilts are presented free of charge to service members or veterans, and a presentation can be done in a public space or at the veteran’s home. The short program at the presentation is both meaningful and interesting; often reflecting on the veteran’s service duty.

More information can be obtained from any Cranberry member or from project chair, Marie Shulenski at mshulenski@yahoo.com.

Cranberry quilt guild also has the good fortune of having two longarm members that can assist with quilting questions and finishing technique services. For questions, email QueenBeeQuilting2@yahoo.com and the.longarm.quilter.co@gmail.com.