At Barton Trading Co., we believe in the power of community, compassion, and the importance of supporting one another, especially during challenging times. This holiday season, we are proud to share the story behind Project Knit Cap, an initiative that is close to our hearts. Thanks to a partnership with SS Activewear, we were able to donate 100 beanies to University Cancer and Blood Center in Athens, Georgia, for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. This project is not only a gesture of kindness, but also a deeply personal tribute to the strength and resilience of cancer patients, including my own mother.
A Personal Connection: The Journey of My Mother
The idea for Project Knit Cap was born out of a deeply personal experience. Several years ago, my mother was diagnosed with stage 1 cancer, and our family’s world was turned upside down. Initially, the prognosis was hopeful, and we were confident she would recover with treatment. However, her cancer journey took a turn for the worse, and it eventually progressed to stage 4. Watching my mother navigate this battle—her strength, her vulnerability, and the toll the treatments took on her physically and emotionally—changed my perspective on what it means to support those facing a cancer diagnosis.
One of the most difficult aspects of her treatment was the hair loss caused by chemotherapy. It’s a reality many cancer patients face, and it often adds a layer of emotional pain to an already incredibly tough process. We saw firsthand how something as simple as a warm, soft beanie could offer comfort and a sense of normalcy. That experience inspired me to find a way to give back to others who were going through similar challenges.
The Birth of Project Knit Cap
Project Knit Cap is a result of that desire to help. Tiffany and I came together to create a meaningful way to provide comfort to cancer patients in Athens, GA—patients who, like my mother, are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments. With the support of SS Activewear, a company that shares our passion for community, we were able to donate 100 beanies to University Bone and Cancer, an oncology clinic that treats patients in the Athens area.
The beanies we chose were not only soft and warm, but also stylish, offering patients a sense of dignity and comfort during a difficult time. We wanted these hats to do more than just provide physical warmth—they were a symbol of care, solidarity, and hope. A reminder that, even in the darkest moments, there are people who are thinking of you and rooting for you.
Why Beanies?
During chemotherapy, patients often experience hair loss, which can be an emotionally challenging part of the treatment process. A beanie serves as a simple, yet powerful, way to provide warmth and a sense of normalcy. It can also be a source of comfort during a time when patients are often facing physical and emotional vulnerability. For those undergoing radiation treatments, the warmth from a cozy beanie can offer relief, and the soft fabric can be a gentle reminder that someone cares.
For me, it’s also about showing that even small acts of kindness can make a difference. My family was lucky enough to have an incredible support system, but many people battling cancer don’t have the same resources or care network. Through Project Knit Cap, we wanted to be part of the community that rallies around those in need and offers support, however we can.
A Holiday Give Back: A Gift of Warmth and Hope
The holiday season is a time for giving, and Project Knit Cap represents the spirit of giving back in a way that feels personal and meaningful. By donating 100 beanies to University Cancer and Blood Center, we were able to touch the lives of patients in Athens, GA, who are enduring the difficult journey of cancer treatment. The beanies are just a small gesture, but we hope they provide both physical warmth and emotional support to patients who are often navigating some of the hardest days of their lives.
Through our partnership with SS Activewear, we were able to source high-quality beanies that patients can wear throughout their treatment process. SS Activewear shares our passion for community outreach, and together, we hope to inspire others to take action and support those in need.
The Power of Giving: A Message from Our Family
Cancer affects so many people, and for our family, the journey has been one of both heartache and strength. The decision to launch Project Knit Cap was born from my mother’s experience and the impact that small acts of kindness can have on a person’s emotional well-being. We know that cancer treatment is physically grueling, but the emotional toll it takes can be just as overwhelming. We hope that these beanies provide comfort, hope, and a reminder that these patients are not alone in their journey.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support of our family , our amazing customers, and for the partnership with SS Activewear. This project has brought us closer together as a company, and it has reminded us of the importance of supporting our community, especially during the holidays.
Looking Ahead: More Ways to Give Back
Project Knit Cap is just the beginning. At Barton Trading Co., we are committed to giving back year-round, and we will continue to explore ways to support those in need, whether it’s through donations, community outreach, or simply spreading kindness.
We hope that Project Knit Cap serves as a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. Whether it’s a beanie, a note of encouragement, or a simple smile, we all have the power to help brighten someone’s day.
To all the cancer patients facing treatment this holiday season, we are thinking of you. You are strong, you are resilient, and you are not alone. Thank you for inspiring us to make this project a reality.
Join Us in Spreading Warmth and Kindness
If you’d like to learn more about Barton Trading Co. or get involved in our community outreach efforts, please visit our website or follow us on social media. Together, we can continue to spread kindness, warmth, and hope throughout the year.
