FARMINGTON – Chris Bourass is a passionate volunteer who wanted to give back to her community in challenging times. In 2012 she started making one-of-a-kind bracelets from recycled buttons to support children who were homeless and living at a group home in Rumford.
As demand for the bracelets grew, as well as local children’s needs, the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area became the fiscal agent for Buttons for Babes, and engaged volunteers in this worthwhile project. To date, 400 volunteers have been engaged, and more than $30,000 has been raised to support homelessness as well as children in crisis throughout Greater Franklin County.
Do you like to sew? Do you have a button collection from your grandmother sitting in a drawer that you could donate? Would you like to help clean buttons and assemble kits at an upcoming workshop? Join us in celebrating the success of Buttons for Babes and help with its continued growth at the first ever Buttons for Babes Brunch on Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 – 3 in the Bass Room at Franklin Memorial Hospital. Volunteers are very much needed, and all ages are welcome. Registration is from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. but you are welcome to come at any point throughout the event.
For those who are new and interested in learning how to make Buttons for Babes bracelets two trainings will be held at 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. Are you already a Buttons for Babes bracelet volunteer? Come anytime and join the fun, and don’t forget to bring friends. All supplies will be provided. This event is free with door prizes every hour!
Need more information? Cannot attend? You can contribute in other ways. Contact Eleni Margaronis, Volunteer Center Coordinator United Way of the Tri-Valley Area, at 207.778.5048 or volunteer@uwtva.org. RSVP’s are also appreciated.
We appreciate the support of Calzolaio Pasta Company who will be providing the delicious food for the event.
