About Warm Up America

Warm Up America is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing hand‑crafted blankets, clothing, and accessories to people in need. Built on the belief that small acts of creativity can make a big impact, the organization partners with volunteers across the country to crochet and knit modular sections that are joined into warm, comforting items for shelters, hospitals, veterans’ groups, and community service organizations. Through its simple, accessible approach, Warm Up America empowers makers of all skill levels to turn their craft into compassion.

Ways You Can Get Involved

Here are meaningful ways that members can support From Hooks to Hope:

• Crochet or knit blocks - Create 7" x 9" blocks that will be assembled into full-size blankets, hats, and scarves and distributed to people in need. This is the most accessible way to participate, perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike.
• Join or start a local group - Many volunteers work together in guilds, crafting circles, or community groups to produce and assemble items. It's a great way to build community while supporting a cause.
• Host a group project or service event - Schools, libraries, workplaces, and craft stores often organize Warm Up America events where participants create sections together. These events are ideal for CGOA chapters looking to engage members.
• Assemble blankets - Volunteers can help join donated sections into finished blankets. This is a wonderful role for people who enjoy seaming or want a non-crocheting way to contribute.
• Donate yarn or supplies - Warm Up America accepts donations of new, unused yarn and tools, which are distributed to volunteers and community groups who need materials.
• Support through fundraising or monetary donations - Financial contributions help cover shipping costs, program expansion, and outreach to communities in need.
• Spread the word - Sharing the mission on social media, at guild meetings, or within your local community helps bring in more volunteers and donations.

Get Started Today

Kick off your Warm Up America contribution with the Pebbled Pathway Block, a textured, relaxing stitch pattern that's perfect for both new and experienced crocheters. This block works beautifully as a standalone 7" x 9" block or as part of a larger project. Its rhythmic, pebbled texture adds warmth and visual interest to any blanket. 

Pebbled Pathway Block

by Linda Dean © 2025

Enjoy a simple 2 row repeat with a row of pebble like clusters complimented with single crochet stitches. This block offers nice texture and fun striping.

Skill level - Intermediate

Finished measurements - 7" x 9"

Yarn - Medium weight (#4) yarn, 3 colors

Hook - I/9/5.5 mm crochet hook

Additional materials - Yarn needle

Gauge - 8 CL sts x 9 rows = 4"

Special stitches

Cluster (CL): [yo, insert hook in st, yo, pull up a loop, yo, pull through 2 loops] 3 times, yo, pull through all 4 loops.

Color C is used for edging and block.

Work the square in the following Color Sequence: Rows 1-4 A, Rows 5-6 B, Rows 7-12 C, Rows 13-16 B, Rows 17-18 A, Row 19 C.

Pattern

Row 1: With A, ch 27, CL in 4th ch from hook, [sk 1 ch, CL in next ch] 11 times, dc in last st, turn. - 12 CL, 2dc

Row 2: Ch 1, sc in same st, sc in each st across, turn. - 14 sc

Row 3: Ch 3, CL across until 1 st rem, dc in last st, turn. - 12 CL

Row 4: Rep Row 2.

Row 5-18: Rep Rows 3 & 4.

Row 19: Rep Row 3. Do not fasten off.

Edging

Rnd 1: Ch 1, 3 sc in same st, sc in each st across until 1 st rem, 3sc in next st, working down row ends, evenly sc across edge, 3 sc at corner, sc in next unused loops of ch, [sk next ch, sc in next unused loops of ch] across until 1 st rems, 3 sc in last st, working in row ends, evenly sc across side, sl st to join, turn.

Rnd 2: Ch 1, [sc in each st across to corner st, 3 sc in corner sc] 4 times, sl st to join. Fasten off.

Weave in ends. Block.

Abbreviations

ch(s) = chain(s)

dc = double crochet

rep = repeat

sc = single crochet

sk = skip

sl st = slip stitch

st(s) = stitch(es)

yo = yarn over