The Ladies of the Lakes: Stitching Together Community and Compassion

Ladies of the Lakes Quilting Community busy at work in a bright sewing room.

A Stitch in Time: How the Ladies of the Lakes Make a Difference

The Ladies of the Lakes quilt guild, a vibrant community of women dedicated to sewing for a cause, meets monthly at Lakeland's Fabric Warehouse. Their gatherings are not just about quilting, but also about forming bonds and creating meaningful contributions to their community. On this particular Saturday, the group kicks off a charity sewalong, an event aimed at piecing together quilts for local organizations in need.

With their sewing machines set up and colorful jelly rolls of fabric in hand, the women embark on their communal project. Each piece of fabric represents hope and compassion, as the quilts are intended to provide comfort to families facing difficult times. Donna Bishop leads the group, showcasing techniques and fostering a warm atmosphere filled with laughter and support.

Building Community Through Craft

The sense of community is palpable as Ladies of the Lakes President Kimberly Boothe emphasizes their mission to welcome newcomers into their fold. "We love to have new people come and join us," she states, highlighting the guild's commitment not just to quilting, but to education and friendship. They serve various charities, including Florida Baptist Children’s Homes and VITAS Healthcare, focusing on delivering comfort through memory bears for grieving families.

Handcrafted Gifts of Healing

The memory bears, crafted from personal items provided by families, transform into heartfelt gifts that embody both love and support. Treva Lawter, a dedicated member, shares her pride in making several bears each week, reflecting on the rewarding nature of their craft. “It’s really rewarding, very rewarding,” she says, underscoring the profound impact their work has on both the creators and the recipients.

As the meeting unfolds, the women share creative ideas and personal stories about their projects, reinforcing the bond they all share. This unique blend of sewing and social interaction not only empowers them as individuals but also weaves a stronger sense of community. Through their quilting efforts, the Ladies of the Lakes stitch not just fabric, but also connections that extend across Lakeland.

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The Ladies of the Lakes: Stitching Together Community and Compassion

A Stitch in Time: How the Ladies of the Lakes Make a Difference

Building Community Through Craft

Handcrafted Gifts of Healing

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