Memorial Hospital received a heartfelt gift as Illini West High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) delivered over 40 handmade tie blankets for emergency and inpatient units. The project was sparked by the FFA Officer Team’s annual focus on community service, integrating the blanket-making into their Friendsgiving event on November 20th. Students spent the evening crafting the blankets, with the intention of providing comfort to patients facing tough moments. Memorial Hospital’s staff say the donation will brighten the days of many, expressing gratitude for the young volunteers’ dedication and compassion throughout the holiday season.
“It was something fun that got everyone involved in helping our community and giving back to those in need,” said Lainey Sullivan, 2025–2026 Illini West FFA Chapter President.
“It was fun to make the blankets and to know that we were able to give comfort to those in need,” added FFA member Kenzey Geissler.
“It took a lot of time to be precise and to get them completed neatly, but it felt good to know they were going to a good cause,” said Carmen McElroy, 2025–2026 Illini West FFA Treasurer.