A blanket is a simple thing. It keeps one warm when cold sets in.

But at the Gender and Sexuality Center, a blanket is much more.

The GSC is taking part in a project called “Share a Square.” This is a “craftivism” project that combines knitting and crocheting with activism.

“The goal is to collect 49 knitted or crocheted squares to make a blanket to donate to the Ruth Ellis Center, a shelter that welcomes LGBT youths who have been rejected or abandoned by their families and need a safe place to stay,” said Cherie W. Rolfe, GSC volunteer and OU alumna.

Each square is seven-by-nine inches and can be stitched into any pattern with any colors. It takes 49 squares to make a blanket.

This project is part of “Warm Up America,” the charity created by Evie Rosen in 1991. She wanted volunteers to knit or crochet small squares that could be joined together with others when completed.

Twenty-two years later, the project is still going strong. Warm Up America currently distributes a variety of knitted items to thousands of people in need.

“There are between 320,000 and 400,000 homeless LGBT youths in the United States,” Rolfe said. “They are estimated to make up 40 percent of the homeless youth population.”

The Ruth Ellis Center in Highland Park is one of the few places in Michigan where homeless LGBT youth can find safety and acceptance. However, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, no one is denied services.

“Doing a small thing, like making a blanket, is a very personal way to help them find a little comfort while they are working through a difficult situation,” Rolfe said.

Small actions may go overlooked, but at the GSC it is these sort of actions that lead to everlasting bonds and a continued sense of comfort.

“The GSC is like a family to me, we all are there to support each other and form friendships, and get to grow and learn about new genders and sexualities we may have never heard of,” said Ashley Luckee, a student who frequents the center.

It may be just an ordinary blanket to some, but for those without comfort at home, the warmth of a blanket and someone to talk to can make all the difference.