Since starting in 2000, the Joy Quilts program through the Sunbonnet Sue Quilt Club has supported thousands of children facing tough times across Clallam County.

Olympic Medical Center leaders honored them on March 6 for their continued contributions to child patients.

In a certificate of appreciation, OMC officials wrote, “With deep appreciation for generously creating and donating thoughtful Joy Quilts for OMC patients. Your passion and talents help bring comfort to patients and their families.”

Loretta Bilow of Sequim said she used her former club in Kitsap County’s concept and brought it to Sequim’s club that provides handmade quilts each wrapped around a plush animal.

“Joy quilts are a way of spreading love to our community and kids,” she said. “These girls work like you wouldn’t believe.”

Over the years, Bilow has converted her garage into a space to accommodate making and storing Joy Quilts.

Boxes can be found around Sequim to donate stuffed animals, and OMC and Sequim Prairie Grange members also provide them for the club.

“Talk to a nurse or doctor, and they’ll tell you [patients] love it,” Bilow said.

The size of each quilt depends on the size of the animal, and quilters say they prefer smaller ones, but not giant or tiny.

Club member Norma Herbold said each quilt is something a child can hold onto.

Bilow said the quilts can go to any organization working with children in crisis.

The Sunbonnet Sue Quilt Club’s Community Quilts program also makes end-of-life quilts, Herbold said.

For more about Joy Quilts, call Loretta Bilow at 360-582-0100, or visit sunbonnetsuequiltclub.org. Weekly meetings start at 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Sequim Masonic Lodge, 700 S. Fifth Ave.