Port Pillows for Chemo Care Kits
Volunteer from home — one port pillow at a time. The pillows you lovingly craft are symbols of hope, comfort, and support for cancer patients during their toughest battles. We are deeply moved by your willingness to share your talent and heart with our community.
How to make a port pillow
Everything you need, and every step from start to finish.
Materials
- 2 pieces of 4×6 quilting cotton
- Velcro, 3″ long (hook & loop)
- Poly-Fil or other stuffing
- Sewing machine
Steps
- Prepare the first piece: Place the first 4×6 piece of fabric right side up. To find the middle, fold it in half hamburger-style (short side to short side), then crease it.
- Attach the Velcro: Position one side of your Velcro in the middle of the long edge, right side up. Place the opposite side face down in the middle of the opposite long edge. Clip both into place.
- Sandwich the pieces: Place the second fabric piece right side down on top of the first (with Velcro). Clip all edges together, keeping the Velcro aligned.
- Sew around the pillow: Sew all the way around, close to the edge (about 1/4″), leaving a rough 2-inch opening on one side for turning.
- Turn the pillow: Carefully turn it right side out through the opening. Use a pencil or chopstick to push out the corners.
- Stuff the pillow: Gently stuff with Poly-Fil, distributing it evenly.
- Close the opening: Fold the raw edges inward and sew a 1/8-inch seam to secure it.
Tip: Use clips or pins to hold the Velcro in place while you sew.
See every step in action
Sometimes the best guidance comes from seeing each step. This detailed video tutorial walks you through every part of making your port pillow.
Questions as you watch or sew? We’re here every step of the way — email rachel@beyondbasicneeds.org.
Where to send your beautiful creations
Where to Send
Securely package your finished pillows and mail them to:
Beyond Basic Needs
Attn: Rachel Minion
189 River Hill Drive
Welaka, FL 32193
New address as of June 7, 2026
Email Rachel@beyondbasicneeds.org with your pillow count so we can update our team.
Donation Receipt
Your generosity deserves recognition. To receive a receipt, email rachel@beyondbasicneeds.org with your full name, mailing address, and the number of pillows donated. We’ll send it within 3 business days.
Pre-Paid Shipping Label
Labels are available for donations of 50 pillows or more. Email Rachel@beyondbasicneeds.org with your contact details, box size, pillow count, and weight. You’ll receive your label within 48 hours.
Interested in donating supplies? We gratefully welcome fabric, Velcro, and batting donations at the address above. Thank you for making a difference!
What is a port pillow?
A port pillow is a cushion designed to shield the chemo port from irritation or pressure caused by a car’s seat belt. Ports are surgically implanted under the skin, often near the chest, and while essential, the area is sensitive and prone to discomfort if bumped or pressed.
The port pillow is a soft, compact cushion that attaches to the seat belt with Velcro, forming a protective barrier so every ride — to treatment, appointments, or a much-needed outing — is as comfortable as possible. When we first began assembling Chemo Care Kits, the port pillow was the very first item included.
Daily comfort
Car rides are inevitable, but they don’t have to be painful. A port pillow turns an everyday moment into something manageable and even comforting.
Practicality
Its Velcro design makes it easy to attach, adjust, and remove — designed with real lives in mind, simple and effective.
A symbol of support
Every pillow sends a message to the recipient: you are seen, you are understood, and we’ve thought of the little things that make your day better.
Crafted by hands like yours
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