The members of the Shamrocks of St. Patrick Church in Newcastle are a group of women who have come together from different backgrounds and experiences who strongly believe in giving back to the communities where we live. We have decided to be a part of Miles of Pillowcase Smiles. This signature event is held annually in September to coincide with National Childhood Cancer Awareness month. It is estimated that 15,780 children and adolescents will be diagnosed with cancer this year, nearly 50,000 will be receiving treatment and, sadly, 1,960 will die of the disease in the United States. Our goal for the month of September is to sew 70 pillowcases. With your help, we can do this.

On Wednesday, Sept. 28, the Shamrocks will meet at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall; 380 Academy Hill Road in Newcastle at 10 a.m. to create some cheerful pillowcases that we sincerely hope will brighten the day of sick children and their families. We are planning a fun-filled pillowcase-making event and everyone can help. Sewing skills are not needed as we will need people to help with ironing and to bag the pillowcases when completed. There will be music, snacks and friendship to create a festive mood. Individuals who will be sewing should bring their sewing machines, rotary cutters, pins, mats, rulers and thread. We will also need extension cords and gallon-sized storage bags.

If you wish to donate fabric, please bring it with you. All fabric must be pre-washed with no fabric softener.

If you would like to donate money to assist with this project, please make a check out to All Saints Parish and designate St. Patrick’s Miles of Pillowcase Smiles on the memo line. These checks can be brought to the event, placed in the collection or mailed to St. Patrick Church, 380 Academy Hill Road, Newcastle, ME 04553.

If you have questions, please call Lynn Maloney (207-798-2831) or Donna Stano (207-529-0003). We hope you will be able to join us to create a special gift for a sick child.