Altering Clothing for Soldiers

Saturday 17th of March 2007 12:09:09 AM

Altering Clothing for Soldiers

When most people think of donating their time sewing clothing for soldiers, they think of sending the clothing to the soldiers that are still in the field, not the wounded ones who have returned home. But injured soldiers need special clothing, especially if they lose an arm or are still healing from their injuries. Two women from Mississippi, USA decided to start a volunteer sewing group that caters to soldiers who need this type of clothing called Sew Much Comfort.

Debra Byrd and Mary E. Vinson both heard about sewing clubs and chapters forming that alter clothing including T-Shirts, pants, boxer shorts, and other clothing items, but did not know how to start their own chapter. While the two women were talking one day, they both mentioned the idea. Together, they started the chapter. “It's not something most people think about, but it's hard for someone who is missing an arm to put on a T-shirt,” said Byrd.

T-Shirts can be altered so they open on the side to make it easier to put on with one arm. Velcro snaps are used to keep the shirt together. Pants are made longer in one leg so stilts and other items used to keep the leg straight can be worn underneath. “It's my way of helping. It's very rewarding,” said Vinson.

When the group finishes pieces, they send them to an organisation that distributes them to soldiers in various hospitals. Being able to provide soldiers with T-Shirts and other clothing while they are in the hospital is a great way to show soldiers that they are appreciated for all the hard work and sacrifice they have had to endure. Vinson and Bryd are currently teaching others how to alter clothing and have talked with various organisations about their group.

(c)Dominic Morel, www.sxc.hu