We have a new crochet, knitting, and sewing ministry that we are looking for helpers relatively quickly. So, if you are someone with experience in crocheting or sewing, or even if you are interested in learning, we would be grateful for your help!
I reached out to wildlife rehabilitation groups in LA County, letting them know we would like to offer support to their wildlife rescues due to the fires. I sent messages to several rescue/rehabilitation workers and have been in touch, at this point, with two responders: Wildlife Foster Program and Caitzees Critter Rescue and Rehab. While I hope other agencies will follow as well, for now, both of these groups rescue small mammals: raccoons, opossums, skunks, squirrels, hedgehogs, gophers… really, any small mammal or rodent.
You can download patterns for these items below. If you can help in any way, I would be so grateful! They are quick and easy to make. My husband even agreed to let me show him how to sew opossum pouches, so men… this call is for you too! You don’t have to use my patterns, but please keep in mind that crocheted nests/baskets need to be done very tightly. So using 2 strands at a time and downsizing the needle by 1 size will help, and pulling as tight as you can is important. We don’t want spaces between the stitches, where their toes can get stuck. Acrylic yarn must be used. For now, let’s make medium to large nests for baby mammals.
For the hammocks, I will order the hanging hooks in bulk. Some supplies are available at the church. For the pouches, extra small and small on the size chart on the pattern should work for the types of animals they serve.
Please help if you can. If you do not feel able to craft but are able to pray, the two rescuers are Caitlin and Debra. Debra asked for extra prayers and blessings. She told me that her elderly parents’ house burned down, and she hasn’t slept in 3 days. I’m providing a prayer for these wild animals, too.
Please text me if you are working on projects so that I can keep track of inventory and arrange pick up. My cell number is 412-841-9116. I am hoping to get our first shipment out in a couple weeks with more to follow! These projects should go pretty quickly. Let’s do this!
Thanks to you all! I believe God provided this opportunity for us to help.
Peace be with you all,
Amanda Pelphrey
Hanging Possum Pod
Wildlife Pouches
Possum Palace
Dear Creator of all life,
We come to you with heavy hearts, seeking your mercy and protection for the innocent animals affected by the California wildfires.
You who see the sparrow fall, who crafted every creature with care and purpose, we ask you to extend your divine protection over the wildlife, farm animals, and beloved pets caught in this devastation. Shelter them in your loving arms and guide them to places of safety.
For the animals who flee in fear, grant them paths of escape and strength to carry on. For those injured or trapped, we pray for rescue and healing. For those who have perished, may they rest in peace, free from pain and suffering.
Bless the people who risk their lives to save them—the firefighters, rescuers, and compassionate souls who open their homes and hearts. Grant them courage, strength, and the resources they need to continue their efforts.
Calm the winds, bring the rain, and subdue the flames.
Restore balance to the land so that all living beings may thrive once more in harmony.
May we, as stewards of this earth, be ever mindful of our responsibility to care for your creation. Teach us to live with greater reverence for the interconnectedness of all life and to take action to protect our planet and its creatures.
In your infinite love and mercy, we place our trust.
Amen.