Frequently Asked Questions
Please see some frequently asked questions below.
For all other inquires, please contact us at admin@quiltsforsurvivors.ca
What is Quilts For Survivors?
Quilts for Survivors is a registered non-profit founded by Vanessa Genier, an Indigenous mother from Missanabie First Nation, Ontario. It unites volunteer quilters nationwide to gift full-sized quilts to Residential School survivors, symbolizing support, respect, and love. Supported by generous donations, the initiative began as a Facebook group inviting quilters to honor survivors and the children returning to their Nations across Turtle Island.
Who can request a quilt, and how?
Anyone affected by the Residential School System, Day Schools, the Sixties Scoop, or other traumas—whether a Survivor, a friend, or a family member—can request a quilt for a Survivor. For more details, visit the “Request a Quilt“ tab.
I requested a quilt but haven’t received it yet?
The average wait for quilt requests is now ~13 months (up from 11-12 months) due to the Canada Post strike. We’ll email you near the top of the list to confirm your address; unconfirmed addresses delay shipping. Check your status or update your address here.
Where should our donations be sent?
Please send all donations directly to
Quilts for Survivors at 58 Legion Dr, South Porcupine, ON P0N 1H0, Canada.
Completed quilts may also be sent directly to a survivor.
Find more information below.
Can I donate something other than a block or quilt?
Yes, we gladly accept monetary donations, supplies, and more. Visit the Contributions tab for details and next steps.
Are you a registered charity?
We are not currently a registered charity, but we are a federally recognized non-profit organization actively working to obtain our charity status. Stay tuned for updates on our progress!
Frequently Asked Questions- Volunteers
What kind of fabric is used?
We accept 100% cotton quilting fabric
This ensures that all quilts meet our quality standards and are durable, comfortable, and consistent.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept other types of fabric, such as polyester, fleece, or blends.
Thank you for understanding and supporting our efforts to provide high-quality quilts to Survivors.
Fabric Restrictions
Please avoid using fabrics that may be triggering or offensive, including:
-Religious symbols (e.g., crosses, churches)
-School-related themes (e.g., alphabet, rules, paper)
-Travel motifs (e.g., planes, trains, cars)
-Graphic content (e.g., weapons, foul language, drugs)
-Gang-related designs (e.g., bandanas)
If unsure, email us a picture and description at admin@quiltsforsurvivors.ca.
Guidelines for Donated Quilts
Quilts must be new and handmade (not used).
Use fabrics that meet our restrictions.
Minimum size: 48″ x 64″.
Quilts should be finished, bound, and ready to gift.
What size of blocks are needed?
Our primary block size is 16.5 inches square, but we gladly accept other sizes as well, such as 12.5 inches, 10 inches, and more.
Can we donate tops, or completed quilts?
Quilt tops should ideally measure 48 inches x 64 inches or lap size, we ask that they are not bigger then a queen size.
What should I include with a completed quilt?
Email admin@quiltsforsurvivors.ca to receive the required items for each quilt, including a letter, poem, and label. You may include a personal note or card, and your own label (but it cannot replace our label, which must not be altered or written on).
Sending a Quilt to a survivor?
Addresses are only provided via email and should only be requested when the quilt can be sent within 2-3 business days. Preprinted labels must be attached before requesting an address. While we strive to accommodate specific delivery locations, we may not always be able to meet your preferences.
Binding Guidelines?
We kindly ask that bindings be 2.5 inches wide and joined on the diagonal. They can be made from solid colors or a mix of scraps.
How do I register for QFS quilting classes? Is there a fee?
Join our Zoom quilting classes on the third Sunday of each month (September to June). We’ll cover 1-2 blocks per session; please have your fabric pre-cut and ready. Participants must supply their own fabric.
A minimum $5 donation per class is appreciated via e-transfer to vanessa@quiltsforsurvivors.ca or by cheque to the address below.
For personal classes, register here.
How do I volunteer at the Studio in Timmins?
To volunteer, visit the Studio page for open hours and complete the waiver beforehand. The Studio is a drug- and alcohol-free space—please respect this policy. For questions or studio tours, contact our Studio Manager here.
How do I request a label?
To request labels, please provide:
Your full name
Your shipping address
The number of labels needed
For physical labels, a $5 shipping fee applies. Send the fee via EMT to vanessa@quiltsforsurvivors.ca.
Digital labels are also available—let us know if you’d prefer a file to print and attach.
Email here.
Binding Challenge-Quilt Canada 2025
Binding for Quilt Canada 2025 can be mailed starting in April 2025. Please make sure to include the length written and attached to the binding.
To get the address please email here.