All of us have watched in horror, as Hurricane Katrina pounded the Gulf Coast this week. Quilters are always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. We are depending on that generosity as we launch AQS Quilters to the Rescue.

The American Quilter’s Society will act as a repository for quilts to be donated to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. This will be a long-term commitment. We will receive quilts into our warehouse and pack them to be shipped on to the disaster areas, when and where requested by the aid groups. Our Paducah, Kentucky location is the perfect launch point for the aid. We are asking for completed bed quilts and baby quilts only. Do not send quilting supplies, wallhangings, or unfinished quilts.

With colder weather just two months away, quilts made with loving care, will offer comfort to those facing winter and rebuilding their lives. As many as a million people may be left homeless due to this catastrophic disaster. It is likely that many people will be in shelters and other relocation facilities through much of the winter. Quilts will be needed! So spread the word!

Send donated quilts to:

AQS Quilters to the Rescue
c/o American Quilter’s Society
5801 Kentucky Dam Road
Paducah, KY 42003

For those of you wishing to contribute to the immediate relief effort, a donation of money may be more appropriate. We suggest a donation to NOVA (National Organization for Victim Assistance). They will be providing long-term assistance on many levels. You may go to their Web site at www.trynova.org or send checks to NOVA, 510 King Street, Suite 424, Alexandria, VA 22314, or call them at 703-525-NOVA.

UPDATE: AQS has been overwhelmed with quilts – much to our joy. The outpouring of generosity has been amazing. We have been able to ship large quantities of quilts to various relief groups throughout the Gulf Coast area. Now we can provide addresses for quilters to ship direct to those in need. Please go to www.americanquilter.com for the addresses and also a label you can download to print to attach to your disaster quilts.

For an optional "AQS Quilters to the Rescue" quilt label, go to www.aqsquilt.com click on the link to download the PDF.