Tallahassee, FL (WTXL) - What started as a simple sewing crew to make alterations to inmate’s uniforms has turned into a program designed to help female inmates gain a new skill and career path.
Stitch-N-Time is a program that was started in 2007 by Correctional Officer Donna Guy, which gives some of the women a chance to design and create quilts, walker caddie bags, school bags, NICU quilts, and other items for the community.
“Sewing with Stitch-N-Time has taught me a valuable skill. I am able to benefit the community by making quilts for the elderly and children as well as do something positive with my time and talent.” says Monica, an inmate from the Leon County jail.
Hundreds of quilts are donated to a local hospital, retirement homes, rehabilitation centers, the Leon County Animal Shelter, and daycares.
Officer Guy teaches the women how to use a sewing machine and different techniques in quilting.
“The ladies have developed many skills from this program; learning the different stitches, math skills and a technique known as appliqueing. This is a good program for the ladies, it occupies their minds and calms them.” says Officer Guy.
The Stitch-N-Time program is also an opportunity for the women to pursue careers in the design field after being released. There is a local business in Tallahassee that was started by a former inmate in the program. Another of the former inmates also works as a fashion designer in Atlanta, said Officer Guy.
Judy Rainbrook and Peggy Clark, members of the Quilters Guild volunteer with Stitch-N-Time. They go to the jail to assist the women, talk with them, as well as deliver fabrics from their organization.
“It feels like any women sewing group, it’s just that everyone is in uniform… this program gives them something to feel positive about within themselves,” said Rainbrook.
Betsey, an inmate in the Stitch-N-Time program, says it “should be a program out in the community and not just in here.”
One of the quilts Betsey has made is being showcased at the Florida History Museum, she named it “Flip”; It’s a flamingo made up of 1,000 pieces, which spotlights Florida history.
The quilts will be on display from June 2 through August 3, 2016 at the museum. To find out more information on where to visit the quilts go to:http://dos.myflorida.com/cultural/news-and-events/exhibition-calendar/
