The UNMC College of Nursing will hold a “bake war” to help fund this year’s Project Linus blanket-making program.
The event, to be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Center for Nursing Science second-level atrium, will feature baked items to be tasted by the public. A freewill donation will serve as a vote to determine the winner of the contest.
The proceeds of the event will be used to help pay for the fleece to make an estimated 190 blankets for donation to children in Omaha and the surrounding area through Project Linus. The blankets are given to groups such as Child Saving Institute, Ronald McDonald House, Lydia House, Omaha Police Department, Embrace the Nations and Project Harmony.
Lauren Dahlquist, one of the project coordinators, said she expects 200 or more UNMC students, faculty and staff as well as family and friends to participate in the blanket-building event, which is set for 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 25 in the Center for Nursing Science third floor. All UNMC student groups and colleges are invited to participate in the blanket-building, as well. (Each participant is asked for a freewill donation to cover the costs of the fleece used to make blankets.)
Project Linus blanket makers “hug” each blanket when completed.
“We want the kids to know they were made with love,” Dahlquist said.
UNMC students will distribute the blankets to children’s organizations soon after Dec. 1.