Crochet for Charity: Updated List of Charities Accepting Crochet Donations

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Crochet is more than just a relaxing hobby — it can bring comfort, warmth, and hope to those in need. Many charities across the U.S., Canada, and around the world welcome handmade crochet donations such as blankets, hats, scarves, toys, and other essentials.

Over time, some organizations close or change their guidelines, so I’ve updated this list for 2025 to highlight active, trustworthy charities that still accept crochet items. Each entry includes what they accept and a link to their official site so you can find the right place to donate your projects.

Active & Recommended Charities

These groups are currently active and accept crochet donations. Please check each website for up-to-date guidelines.

Friends of Pine Ridge Reservation

Threads of Love

Accepts crocheted, knitted, and sewn gowns, blankets, and handmade items for premature and sick infants. Chapters exist in the U.S., Canada, and U.K.
➡️ Related post: Beginner Friendly Crochet Hats
🔗 Official site: threadsoflove.org

Wool-Aid

Accepts crocheted and knitted garments, accessories, and blankets made with at least 80% wool for children living in cold climates.
➡️ Related post: Featured Charity Wool-Aid
🔗 Official site: wool-aid.org

Free Crochet Patterns Perfect for Charity Donations

Looking for projects to make and donate? Here are some of my free crochet patterns that work well for many of the charities listed above:

• Baby Blanket Patterns – Always welcome by groups supporting children and families.
• Hat Patterns – Chemo caps, winter hats, and NICU hats are some of the most requested donation items.
• Scarf Patterns – Cozy scarves are accepted by shelters and comfort-focused charities.
• Preemie & Infant Patterns – Tiny items such as hats and blankets are needed for hospital NICUs.
• Animal Shelter Patterns – Crocheted mats, sweaters and small blankets can be donated to local shelters.

How to Find Local Charities

Not every organization accepts mailed donations, and sometimes the greatest needs are right in your own community. Here are some ideas to help you find local places to donate your crochet:

• Hospitals & NICUs – Many welcome handmade blankets, hats, and baby items.
• Homeless & Women’s Shelters – Hats, scarves, and blankets are often requested.
• Churches & Community Centers – Often run seasonal drives for families in need.
• Hospice & Senior Care Facilities – Lap blankets and shawls bring comfort to patients.
• Animal Shelters – Crocheted mats and small blankets can be used for kennel comfort.
• Crochet Guild of America (CGOA) – Offers a Crochet for Charity resource to help connect you with local opportunities.

Donation Tips & Best Practices

To make sure your handmade items are safe, practical, and useful, keep these tips in mind:

• Always check each charity’s current guidelines before donating.
• Some charities require wool or wool blends for warmth (see Wool-Aid, Christmas at Sea).
• Others do not allow wool and ask for soft cotton or acrylic yarns (see Crochet for Cancer).
• Some require you to use yarns from an approved list for chemo caps (see Knots of Love).
• Look for bolded fiber requirements in the charity list — these are the most important to follow.
• Oeko-Tex certified yarns are a great choice for sensitive skin and safety.
• Ensure items are clean, odor-free, and pet-hair-free.
• Avoid buttons, beads, or embellishments that could be choking hazards.
• For baby items, use tight stitches so fingers and toes don’t get caught.

Crochet for Charity FAQ

What is the best yarn to use for charity crochet projects?
Most charities ask for soft, washable yarns like cotton or acrylic. Some require wool (for warmth) or forbid wool (for sensitive skin). Always check the guidelines in the list above.

Can I donate crochet items to my local hospital or shelter?
Yes. Many hospitals, shelters, and community centers welcome handmade donations. Call ahead to ask what items they currently need.

Which crochet items are most useful for donation?
The most requested items are blankets, hats, scarves, baby clothing, and comfort toys. For animals, mats and small blankets are often needed.

Do crochet items for charity need to be brand new?
Yes. All donations should be new, clean, and unused. Items should be made in a smoke-free, pet-free environment and washed before donating.

Every handmade item carries comfort, care, and kindness. By donating your crochet projects to one of these charities, you can be sure your work will bring warmth and hope to someone in need.

Use this updated list as a resource to connect your stitches with a cause, and keep spreading comfort through crochet in 2025 and beyond.

Happy crocheting!

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