In August 2018, two close friends of the founder experienced the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Zoe, who was born prematurely. In response, Jen Lofquist—a passionate knitter and crocheter—honored Zoe’s memory by creating handmade preemie hats for the hospital where Zoe spent her short but meaningful life. Jen invited a few friends to join her in this small act of love. That November, the newly formed CORE Cause, Hats for Zoe, delivered 86 hats to a single Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
By 2022, Hats for Zoe had grown into a thriving community of makers, collecting 2,092 handmade items—including hats, blankets, booties, and toys—and distributing them to ten area NICUs and other organizations serving families in need.
Hats for Zoe is fiscally sponsored by CORE Foundation, EIN 20-5997764. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
