New York State Senator Steve Rhoads proudly announced the record-breaking success of his second annual Yarn & Blanket Drive held in partnership with We Care Blankets, collecting an extraordinary 458,000 yards of yarn and more than 168 handmade blankets for children undergoing cancer treatment — surpassing the inaugural drive’s impressive total of more than 400,000 yards of yarn and setting a new benchmark for community generosity and support.

Held from April 1 through May 1, the community-wide initiative once again united residents, volunteers, libraries, and local organizations across Senator Rhoads’ district in support of children and families facing the unimaginable challenges of pediatric cancer. Building on the momentum of the highly successful inaugural campaign, this year’s drive shattered previous collection totals, demonstrating the extraordinary compassion and unwavering commitment of the community to bringing warmth, comfort, and hope to children battling cancer. 

Founded in 1999, We Care Blankets remains dedicated to providing handcrafted blankets to children receiving chemotherapy treatments. Each blanket represents far more than warmth — it is a symbol of compassion, hope, and community support during one of the most difficult moments in a child’s life. 

Residents throughout Senator Rhoads’ district generously donated yarn and handcrafted blankets at collection sites hosted by Bellmore Memorial Library, Bethpage Public Library, East Meadow Public Library, Farmingdale Public Library, Hicksville Public Library, Island Trees Public Library, Levittown Public Library, Merrick Library, North Bellmore Public Library, North Merrick Public Library, Plainview-Old Bethpage Library, Seaford Public Library, and Wantagh Public Library. Their participation and commitment were instrumental in making this year’s drive such an overwhelming success. 

Senator Rhoads expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the initiative.

Senator Steve Rhoads said, “The incredible response from our community once again demonstrates the compassion and generosity of the people throughout our district. Collecting 458,000 yards of yarn and more than 168 handmade blankets is an extraordinary accomplishment that will bring comfort, warmth, and hope to children battling cancer and their families. I want to sincerely thank We Care Blankets, Verity Van Lines, all of the participating libraries, every volunteer who knitted or crocheted blankets, and every resident who donated yarn or spread the word about this important cause. These acts of kindness truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing unimaginable challenges. Together, we have shown these brave children that they are not alone.”

Tamara Baker, Founder of We Care Blankets, reflected on the impact of the partnership, saying, “Senator Rhoads and his wonderful staff with his yarn drives have been a true blessing. I am very thankful for this.”

The success of the second annual Yarn & Blanket Drive stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together with compassion and purpose. Through every donation, every stitch, and every act of generosity, countless children battling cancer will receive not only warmth and comfort, but also the reassuring message that they are surrounded by a community that cares deeply for them and their families.