'Project Warm Up' provides blankets to those in need

Volunteers worked on Saturday to help make sure Sioux Falls residents had a way to stay warm this winter.

For the 11th year in a row, dozens of volunteers helped put together warm, fleece blankets to be given to children in need through "Project Warm Up."

Over the past 10 years, the program has given out more than 15,000 blankets, and hopes to hand out another 2,000 this year.

"I tell you what, it may be cold and blustery outside, but the feeling in here is very warm and loving and caring, and people are just having a great time doing something for a child in need," organizer Tracy Vik said. "It doesn't get any better than that."

Vik's daughter came up with the idea for "Project Warm Up" in 2006, making 100 blankets with 20 of her friends.

The family said they never imagined it would one day turn into a massive community event.