The American Heart Association is calling on knitting and crocheting enthusiasts to get to work for a good cause.

The organization is looking for volunteers to knit or crochet infant-sized hats to support the Little Hats, Big Hearts program.

The program provides handmade red hats to babies born at participating hospitals in February for American Heart Month. The program aims to raise awareness about heart health and congenital heart defects.

Three Rochester-area hospitals are participating:

– Strong Memorial Hospital
– Rochester Regional Hospital
– University of Rochester Medical Center

Patterns for baby and preemie hats can be found here. Donated hats should be made with red cotton or acrylic yarns of medium to heavyweight. The yarn should be machine washable and dryable. 

They’re also accepting yarn donation.

For further details, including important dates and information about the project, you’re asked to contact:

Alexis Zimmerman
Social Events Director
25 Circle Street
Rochester, NY 14607
alexis.zimmerman@heart.org