In the Fall of 2015, we were approached by Sherri Brindle with an intriguing idea. She had read a book where a sewing group had been started in a domestic violence shelter. Sherri wanted to do the same here at Beacon Center and in November 2015, Threads of Hope was born. This educational sewing program was started with a grant from Watertown Community Foundation. Two sewing machines were purchased, along with many notions.  

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The community has been extremely generous with fabric, sewing supplies, sewing machines, and other donations.

 

After about eight months, we had to move into a larger office due to the number of donations and seamstresses. We now have space to have a cutting table and three machines set up.

 

Over twenty women have taken part in Threads of Hope, and many have become regular participants. They usually begin with a pillowcase and have done a variety of sewn items. Any person using Beacon Center services is able to come and sew.

 

When desired, a good used sewing machine and sewing basket are given to a sewing student. They also get to "shop" in the fabric stash. 

 

The sewing room is always filled with laughter and chatter as clients sew. You can’t imagine the feeling when clients proudly show their latest finished product. We’ve seen everything from pillowcases, bags, to dresses. It’s a "happy" place, and the clients look forward to sewing up more good memories in the future.