Cleveland Sews, a community-driven creative organization that provides resources, education, and opportunities for collaboration to empower people to make a positive impacts, will hold its biggest Sew-A-Thon ever this Saturday, May 4 at St. Vincent Charity Community Health Center.

The event aims to promote education around the reduction of single-use plastics in Cuyahoga County and create a more circular Cleveland and is open to the public.

The heart of the Sew-A-Thon revolves around repurposing 654 pounds of drapery material previously used in St. Vincent's inpatient rooms. Student volunteers from John Carroll University Center for Service-Learning and Social Action (CSSA) weighed and measured the material, which will be transformed into reusable tote bags for St. Vincent’s Mission Kitchen and Pantry program, which will help combat single-use plastics and promote sustainability.

Cleveland SewsEmbracing the theme of “social manufacturing,” the Sew-A-Thon pioneers an emerging practice of community-based, democratic production. By empowering individuals and fostering collaborative efforts, the social manufacturing mission is to reshape the way goods are produced and consumed—ultimately leading to more equitable and sustainable economies.

"At Cleveland Sews, we believe in the power of collective action to drive meaningful change," says Cleveland Sews founder and executive director Sharie Renee. "Through the Sew-A-Thon, we're not only reducing waste but also fostering a sense of community and empowerment through social manufacturing."

A central part of the event is the Cleveland Sews Stitching Committee, a diverse group of community stakeholders dedicated to weaving together Cleveland's sewing community. Sewists and non-sewists alike are encouraged to participate, with options to sign up for the full day, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or to work a shift.

The event is free, but registration is required. A complementary lunch will be provided during the event. Local businesses and organizations are also welcome to participate. Email Sharie Renee with questions.

The Cleveland Sews Sew-A-Thon is supported by the Chuck and Char Fowler Foundation, an In Our Back Yards (Ioby) campaign, CSSA, Bolt and Spool, National Safety Apparel, the Awesome Foundation Cleveland, Neighborhood Connections, and Globe Sewing.