Here's a lovely opportunity to help families while we stay at home.

A special call has gone out for volunteers to help make tiny hats and blankets for premature babies born at Letterkenny University Hospital.

Anyone with knitting or crochet skills can give as little as an hour a week to help local babies in their first precious weeks. Donated blankets help hospital staff dress tiny arrivals and give comfort and support to parents.

The Donegal Volunteer Centre, who are coordinating the appeal, will provide patterns and information to volunteers. All pieces can be created by volunteers from the comfort of their own homes.

Once the hats / blankets are completed, a collection will be arranged to allow for safe delivery to the Maternity Unit.

“Kindly note the materials used for knitting / crocheting must be able to undergo a 60 degree wash, cotton is recommended,” the appeal said.

“Colourful hats and blankets are encouraged but kindly avoid using yellow and green as those colours tend to make sick children look sicker.”

If you or someone you know would be interested in pledging some time to supporting the appeal, click here to register: https://www.i-vol.ie/volunteer-opportunity/?ID=a004G00000lmuJ9