Quilters, volunteers step up to give Wasatch Back newborns a patriotic welcome

A volunteer initiative invites community members to help create patriotic blankets for Wasatch Back newborns. Photo: Courtesy of Intermountain Health

WASATCH BACK, Utah — Community members in the Wasatch Back are being invited to help welcome the region’s newest residents through a volunteer initiative to provide every baby born in 2026 with a handmade, patriotic-themed blanket.

Intermountain Health Heber Valley Hospital and Intermountain Health Park City Hospital created the initiative in honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States

Nearly 700 babies are born annually at the two Intermountain Health hospitals, according to Intermountain Health.

Organizers are asking community members to sew blankets or donate materials in red, white, blue, off-white, or soft gray. The blankets will be gifted to families as keepsakes marking both a national milestone and the birth of a child.

“This is a unique opportunity to bring our community together in celebration of both history and new beginnings,” said Lori Weston, president of Intermountain Park City Hospital. “Each handmade blanket is a warm welcome to the newest members of the Wasatch Back and a symbol of the care and connection that define our communities.”

The project has already gained traction locally. Members of the Heber Valley Quilt Guild have donated nearly 240 quilts to labor and delivery units at both hospitals since January.

“Quilting and community service has always brought me great joy,” said Sharon Johnson, a pharmacy technician at Intermountain Heber Valley Hospital and guild member. “This project is a great way to bring joy to our newborn parents while also celebrating the birth of our nation.”

Hospital leaders say the initiative reflects the strong community support that has long defined healthcare in the Wasatch Back.

“Our hospitals have always been strengthened by the kindness of our communities,” said Si Hutt, president of Intermountain Heber Valley Hospital. “As we celebrate a milestone in our nation’s history, we also celebrate new life — and the people who make this community such a special place to call home.”

Those interested in contributing can learn more or sign up through the JustServe website.