The World War II Museum, Knitting for Veterans Campaign is a hugh success and still going strongly!  They have new 2008 Scarf Patterns for both knitting and crochet.  Both are in pdf format:

September 2, 2008 - Updating with 2008 Scarf patterns 

2008 Knitting Pattern:

http://www.nationalww2museum.org/education/2008pattern.pdf

2008 Crochet Pattern:

http://www.nationalww2museum.org/education/2008crochet.pdf

They have 2007 Scarf Patterns for both knitting and crochet, featuring a ”V” for victory on them.  Both are in pdf format: 

2007 Patterns:

2007 V Scarf Knitting Pattern (designed by Lauren Handley)

2007 V Scarf Crochet Pattern (designed by Rachel Vives)

(This post is an Update in honor of Veterans Day. 

 Original post about WWII Museum Knit Your Bit Campaign is here.)

Lion Brand Yarn also has a touching story by a woman who knitted a scarf for this cause.  Her story is here.

About:

http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Features/Special+Olympics.htm

Knit & Crochet Scarf Pattern:

http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/Accessories/WR1704+Knit+and+Crochet+Special+Olympic+Scarves.htm

Reposting on August 4, 2008

The Tuscaloosa News  reports that Stitches from the Heart needs volunteers to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, sweaters and hats for babies.  The items are donated to hospitals across the country.  Call Kathy Silverton toll-free at:  866-472-6903 or email stitchfromheart@aol.com .

(originally posted - October, 2007) -

Knit or crochet Hats, Booties, Blankets, Sweaters for babies across the nation.

Knitting Patterns:

http://www.stitchesfromtheheart.org/knit.html

Crochet patterns:

http://www.stitchesfromtheheart.org/crochet.html

There are even tags and shipping labels you can print out to use for sending your handmade items.

The Artists Helping Children Website

http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/charityknittingforchildren.html

gives suggestions for numerous patterns to knit, crochet, or sew for children.

It does not appear as if Artists Helping Children directly receive or give the items.  You donate them on your own.  They do have lists for suggested hospitals and shelters.

Knit or crochet a teddy bear for a child in an area of the world where tradgey has struck.

 Futher information at: 

http://www.teddiesfortragedies.org/

Patterns for knitting or crocheting a teddy bear:

http://www.teddiesfortragedies.org/pattern.htm

Make a “security blanket - snuggle” for a homeless animal:

http://www.snugglesproject.org/

You do NOT have to become a member to contribute. 

There are patterns avaiable on site for knitting, crochet or sewing here:

http://www.snugglesproject.org/patterns/ 

They also provide a link for you to find a participating shelter near you where you can donate your homemade items:

Where to find a participating shelter

“Purpose: Provide free knitted, crocheted, fleece/soft fabric hats for those who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy, brain surgery, burn wounds, etc. ” (quote from their site). 

For more information, how you can help, patterns on site:

http://headhuggers.org/

Knit, crochet, or sew a baby cap for Midwives kits:

http://ghm.org/resources/hands-on/midwifekit.html

Knit or crochet scarves, hats, vests, etc. for the seamen.  Further information - Where to send - Christmas at Sea  site  http://www.seamenschurch.org/484.asp

Here’s a new post about Kenny’s Kaps, in response to the Patriotic Pillow post:

1. Christina Finn said on 07 Dec 2007 at 7:26 pm      
   We also too feature a Knit and or crocheted cap. This cap is made out of Deep Purple yarn and is adorned with the Purple Heart insignia. These caps are called “Kenny’s Kaps” in tribute for a Master Sgt. Kenneth Sargant, whom sustained Head Trauma in the War! He has recovered well and requested a purple skullcap from Me! This is where the concept originated. You can find the pattern in our web-site!

   God Bless Our Troops, Our Veterans, Our World Leaders, & America!
     Respectfully,
   Christina Finn
   Founder / Coordinator
   Patriotic Pillow Project SM
   www.PatrioticPillowProject.org“                   
   I have learned that in order to bring about change, you must not be
   afraid to take the first step. We will fail when we fail to try. Each
   and everyone of us can make a difference.” Rosa Parks

2. admin said on 07 Dec 2007 at 8:16 pm

   Thank you for the update!
   Here is the page for corchet directions for Kenny’s Kaps.