Stitched With Love: Riley Quilters Give Handmade Quilts to Veterans at the VA Transitional Residence House
Comfort and care are what 19 members of the Riley Quilters brought when they gave 12 handmade quilts to Veterans living at the Birmingham VA’s Transitional Residence (TR) House. The TR House is a supportive home where Veterans moving out of homelessness can rebuild their lives.
Each quilt shows years of dedication, with every stitch reflecting the care of its maker. For the Veterans who will use these quilts, including the six current residents and future ones, the gift means a lot.
“People Still Care About Veterans”
Dedtrich Burroughs, TR House Manager and Marine Corps Veteran, said the quilts had a deep impact on him. Burroughs has been at the TR House for 10 months and uses the program to move forward while helping other Veterans do the same.
“It shows that people still care about Veterans and people care about the fact we served,” Burroughs said.
“They made the quilts with love, and it reminds me of my grandmother quilting—I loved hearing the stories. Each quilt is unique and has a special touch, and the work they did to make these quilts means so much to us.”
A Heritage Since 1987
The Riley Quilters are known for their skill and generosity and are an important part of Birmingham’s United Community Center.
Theresa Johnson, the group’s guiding force and executive director, helped launch the quilting class in 1987, though her love for quilting began long before she ever took on a leadership role.
“When I was little, my grandmother was part of a quilting bee,” she said.
“I listened to the stories, and I watched my grandmother make the winter quilts. Later, I learned from her.”
Another member suggested making quilts for the Veterans at TR House, and Johnson quickly supported the idea.
“I have family and friends who have been in the military,” Johnson said.
“I saw this project as a need and as something worthwhile.”
Each twin-size quilt is made with care and reflects the unique stories of the Veterans who will receive them.
A Gift That Will Outlast the Moment
With only six Veterans currently residing at the TR House (six others were recently transitioned and discharged), the remaining quilts are ready for the next Veterans who will find comfort here.
The partnership between Riley Quilters and the Birmingham VA stands as a touching reminder that Veterans are always supported on their journey toward health and hope.
This donation is about more than fabric and thread. It is about building connections and honoring the service and sacrifice of every Veteran.
About the TR House:
The TR House is a 3,000-square-foot facility that provides temporary housing and support services for Veterans participating in the Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) Program. The house consists of six bedrooms and four bathrooms, accommodating up to 12 Veterans, including both males and females. The TR House offers a safe, stable environment for Veterans facing housing instability.
The TR House is a critical component of the Birmingham VA’s efforts to reduce homelessness among Veterans. The program offers access to a range of supportive services, including case management, therapy, job training, and employment assistance. Veterans typically stay in the TR House for up to 12 months as they work towards stability and independence.
To View a photos of the group's fine work please visit our facebook page here.