On-going Projects

From Good Housekeeping- July 2005 “Fighting baby blues Audri Cid (Westfield Massachusetts)" Our troops make so many sacrifices for our freedom—but the women behind the soldiers sacrifice a lot too,” says Cid. “it’s especially tough on those who spend their pregnancies—the biggest event in their lives—without the everyday support of their partners.” The plight of these military wives aroused sympathy in Cid, 27, a student who works full-time as a medical biller.

Looking for a way to let the women know they weren’t alone, Cid worked with Soldier’s Angels, a Nevada-based nonprofit organization, to launch Operation Top Knot in June 2004. The group makes baby clothes and blankets imprinted with patriotic sayings such as “My daddy defends our freedom.” Cid and her army of volunteers have sent packages to more than 100 women, including one who gave birth to quintuplets only days after her husband was injured in Iraq.

Join Up! If you’d like to nominate a family for a “baby shower”, volunteer your sewing or knitting abilities, or donate money or baby items in the form of a shower gift, contact Audri @ audricid@yahoo.com and write in the message line: Operation Top Knot.

Nominate families or sign up for her newsletter (names of moms-to-be to send your gift directly to the mom or donate supplies to other volunteers).

Handmade blankets, bibs, diaper bags, onesies, hats, booties, clothing Material fleece, cotton, flannel, batting, thread yarn (anything soft- baby sport weight, worsted weight; Colors pastels, primary colors, prints, solids); Store bought diapers, baby shampoo/wash, teddy bears, baby photo albums, rattles, teethers, bottles, pacifiers, Clipped coupons for diapers, formula, juice, baby products and Money (for shipping and supplies).