October 4, 2024 - (More Photos) - Quilts of Valor were presented to 15 veterans on the Frances Oates stage during the 48th Annual East Texas Poultry Festival on Thursday, October 3, 2024.
Speaking on behalf of the Shelby County 4-H Heart to Hands Project and presenting quilts to veterans were Jheri-Lynn McSwain, Ph.D. District 5 Extension Program Specialist; Feleshia Thompson, Shelby County Extension Agent; and Michele Clark, Shelby Sewcial Bee representative.
“Our project is comprised of adult volunteers and 4-H Youth that meet to sew Quilts of Valor in honor of our Shelby County Veterans,” said McSwain. “The Quilts of Valor Project is a partnership with VFW Post 8904 and made possible through sponsorships from local businesses and individuals and quilt donations from clubs in east Texas.”
McSwain stated this is an exciting year as, due to the success of the project in Shelby County and in the state of Texas, the program was adopted in 2023 by the Texas 4-H Youth Development Program under Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service as an official youth project.
“We are now an official partner with the National Quilts of Valor Foundation Under Our Wings program,” said McSwain. “Last year, 200 quilts were crafted by 4-H youth across our state and awarded to veterans.”
A quilt was made for each veteran and they were hung in the First Baptist Church Family Life Center for the public to view. As each of the recipients was recognized, a ceremonial quilt was draped over their shoulders.
