Schoolgirl sewing blankets for rescue cats

Nine-year-old Autumn Matheson-Bruce, a Year 5 pupil at Athelstan Community Primary School, has launched a heart-warming fundraising project creating blankets for Yorkshire Cat Rescue – helping cats stay snug while they wait for their forever homes.

Armed with a sewing machine she received for Christmas and inspired by her grandparents’ love of crafting, Autumn now spends her spare time carefully stitching colourful blankets at her bedroom desk, each one made with patience, creativity and a whole lot of love.

“I realised not all animals have what my dogs have – a loving home and someone to care for them,” she said. “It makes me happy knowing I’ve helped, even in a small way, with a cat’s future and its happiness.”

What started as a simple Christmas hobby quickly grew into something much bigger. After learning sewing techniques from her grandmother (Granny Peta), Autumn began turning her new skills into something meaningful.

Each blanket measures around 20 inches square, just the right size for a cat to curl up, stretch out or enjoy an afternoon snooze. Using soft fabrics and bright floral patterns sourced online, Autumn can make a blanket in around half an hour, choosing warm colours she hopes will bring comfort to rescue cats.

Her favourite shade? A bright, cheerful orange. “A warm colour in my life,” she says.

And while she laughs that some cats might prefer to “tear it into pieces,” others, like her uncle’s cat Mr C, would almost certainly roll over and fall asleep straight away.

Writing on Facebook, Georgia from Yorkshire Cat Rescue said: “Children like Autumn give me hope that there's a chance for the next generation to be better.”

The rescue centre gives every cat a blanket to keep in their pen while they wait to be adopted, helping them feel safe and settled. When they find their forever home, the blanket goes with them, providing a familiar smell and a comforting reminder of where their new life began.

With support from her mum Becky and encouragement from Granny Peta over FaceTime, Autumn has already created a growing collection of blankets that have now been given to cats at the rescue centre.

She’s even balancing her sewing with school life and a busy home filled with three dogs – Ruby, Rosie and Bagel – who keep her company while she works.

“It just gives me joy knowing I’ve contributed,” she said. “Even if it’s only a small way.”

Autumn’s efforts have also impressed her teacher Mr Armstrong at Athelstan Community Primary School, who has described the idea as a “wonderful project” which supports the school’s Young Leaders Community Award.

Autumn’s love for cats runs deep. She remembers a beautiful cat named Jess, owned by a family friend, who continues to inspire her every day.

And she has a powerful message for anyone thinking about supporting her project: “Every feline is as equal to a person,” she said. “Every feline deserves the love that we feel.”

Autumn is hoping to raise £500 for Yorkshire Cat Rescue, with every penny going directly to help cats and kittens in need.

Anyone inspired by her story can support her fundraising challenge here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sponsor-a-home-made-cat-blanket-for-the-yorkshire-cat-rescue

Each donation helps Autumn create more cosy blankets, giving rescue cats warmth, comfort and a blanket they can take with them to their new homes.

Yorkshire Cat Rescue relies heavily on community fundraising and volunteers, and stories like Autumn’s show just how powerful kindness can be, no matter your age.

As she continues sewing her way towards her goal, Autumn hopes other children will feel inspired too.

“There are lots of ways to help animals,” she said. “It’s a great feeling knowing you’ve made a difference.”