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The sound of chattering girls filled the air of the Veterans Transitional Living Program this week as fourth graders and friends from St. Mark’s Cathedral School started making blankets for the incoming residents.

 

Frances Byrd, daughter of Regional Vice President Brian Byrd, came up with the idea after touring the home during the December open house. She made similar blankets before and knew the veterans needed some extra help.

 

“They’re homeless, and they fought for our country,” she said.

 

Her goal is to make 56 fleece blankets – one for each bed in the new facility, expected to open in the next month. It wasn’t too hard to convince her classmates to join her and several gathered this week to start the project.

 

Brightly colored fleece, some with monkey patterns others in more staid plaid, covered the tables. The girls hoped the blankets would bring cheer and warmth to the veterans.

 

“They served our country and they did a favor for me,” said Mary Claire Walker. “I want to do a favor for them.”

 

As a side benefit, Mary Claire added, “we get to have fun while we help the community.”

 

See more pictures in the photo gallery.