‘Ugly Quilt’ group in Arizona earns congressional recognition

MESA, Ariz. (NBC, KYMA) - After decades of service, a group of volunteers earned congressional recognition for their dedication to the community, sewing over 18,000 sleeping bags for the homeless.

While their name is unique, volunteers, like Karen Carnahan, are making it clear.

"We are not ugly quilters. We make ugly quilts," Carnahan expressed.

Made up of about 20 men and women, every Thursday, they meet at First United Methodist Church in Downtown Mesa to make these so called ugly quilts for a good cause.

"It warms my heart to know that we can help someone that is in need and help them through their troubles," said Nona Weisser, spokesperson and volunteer.

Weisser has been volunteering with the group for more than 20 years. She says they hand sew sleeping bags for men, women and children who are unhoused.

"In 1991, they started sewing here, and it was all piece work. We're really blessed with donations now," Weisser shared.

"We add the towels and a T-shirt, a hat and a scarf," said Sandra Whited, another volunteer.

Everyone has a vital role for a cause they're all behind.

"I have to sew them together onto the fabric," said Bernadette Wolff, another volunteer.

"I thread all the needles for everyone, and then I fill the coffee when it's empty...[two very important jobs] right?" said Joan Provident, another volunteer.

"We all care about people that are struggling on the streets. You know, we could all be there someday," Whited spoke.

"There's a real need out there for the homeless. I am able to do something in my retired years, instead of just being at home doing nothing," Wolff added.

Amongst the constant sound of sewing, laughter also echos through the process, and the friendships made are making the fulfilling work go by a little faster.

"I live alone, so it's nice that I can come and make friends," Provident explained.

"Fun people to work with. We all have kind of the same motivation to help somebody less fortunate than we are," Whited added.

This led them to reach a historic milestone: Donating 18,000 bags, which led to Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) awarding them a congressional commendation for their continued work.

While they are wrapping up for the season - since many volunteers are winter visitors.

"I will miss it. I wish it went on all year," Provident expressed.

It's this time together and helping those in need that make them excited to come back again.