Our Beginnings

Hearts Knit Together began in 2007 when a few elderly women living in a low-income housing building decided to serve their community. They taught their neighbors to knit and crochet, creating 100 sets of hats and scarves for the homeless shelter that year.

What started as a small act of kindness soon transformed their own lives—and has since touched thousands of individuals in crisis throughout Utah.

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Growing in Service

In 2008, the women invited their friend Linda Simmons, who was serving as a missionary with her husband Boyd, to help them grow and organize their efforts. Together, they shifted the focus to supporting the YWCA Women in Jeopardy program for women and children escaping domestic violence in Salt Lake City.

For several years, Linda operated the program out of her home until 2010, when Destinations Travel generously donated space in South Jordan. Soon after, ASA Insurance Company and Axis Insurance provided additional work and storage space, allowing Hearts Knit Together to expand to more shelters and refugee families. These generous businesses were instrumental in building what is now a thriving legacy of service.

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Becoming a Nonprofit

In November 2014, Hearts Knit Together became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Since then, we have continued to grow thanks to the generosity of community partners and donors.

Today, we proudly provide comfort kits to domestic violence shelters, refugees, sexual assault survivors, and local police stations across Utah.

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Honoring Our Legacy

Linda Simmons led Hearts Knit Together with tireless dedication until she passed away in 2022. The organization is now guided by her daughter, April James, who is currently serving as the Executive Director, our committed Board of Directors and our many dedicated volunteers, who carry forward her vision of hope and healing.

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Our Mission

Studies show that when people feel loved and cared for during times of crisis, their path to healing is more successful. Our hope is to ensure that every woman, man, and child seeking refuge—no matter their circumstances—receives a gift of love filled with essential items, comfort, and a message of hope.

Join Us

With your help, we can reach even more individuals in crisis. Together, we can bring hope, dignity, and healing to those who need it most.