What started with one simple idea has grown into a community movement that wraps thousands of people in warmth, comfort and kindness.
The TOTs Blanket Challenge was founded in 2017 by Debbie O’Connor, who believed that something as simple as a handmade blanket could make a real difference to someone facing hardship. What began with a small group of passionate makers has grown into a thriving charity powered by hundreds of volunteers who generously donate their time, skills and creativity.
Every stitch tells a story of compassion.
Our journey has been incredible:
2017 – 49 blankets donated
2018 – 70 blankets
2019 – 93 blankets
2020 – 200 blankets
2021 – 290 blankets
2022 – 539 blankets
2023 – 547 blankets
2024 – 680 blankets
2025 – 1,025 blankets
Reaching more than 1,000 blankets in a single year is something we never imagined when the challenge first began. It is a testament to the generosity of our volunteers, supporters, sponsors and the wider community who continue to believe that small acts of kindness can create lasting change.
In 2024, TOTs Blanket Challenge reached another important milestone by becoming an incorporated charity and establishing a dedicated Board of Directors. This step allows us to continue growing sustainably while ensuring we can support more charities, hospitals, families and individuals for many years to come.
That same year, we were honoured to be recognised as the Panthers Tree of Hope Charity Winner, celebrating the incredible impact our volunteers have made across the community.
Today, more than 361 volunteers have contributed their time, talent and generosity to the Blanket Challenge. From experienced knitters and crocheters to complete beginners, every person who joins us becomes part of something much bigger than themselves.
As our charity has grown, so have the costs of keeping it running. In 2026, we introduced a carefully selected range of handmade blankets available for purchase. Every sale helps fund the administration, materials, insurance and operational costs required to keep the charity running, allowing us to continue providing donated blankets to those who need them most.
When you purchase one of our blankets, you’re not just buying something beautiful—you are helping us continue sharing warmth with our community.
Whether you knit, crochet, sew, donate yarn, sponsor our work or simply spread the word, you are helping wrap someone in comfort and hope.
Together, we’ve shown what’s possible when a community comes together with kindness at its heart.
Together, we’ve made a difference. Together, we’ll make 2026 our biggest, warmest year yet.
