Welcome to Quiltingboard.
It has opened a new avenue of communication for me and holds a wealth of knowledge.
I use our search field a lot. There are posts on so many views and ideas.
Sounds like your heart is in the right place. I would encourage you to follow your desire to make quilts for those in need. You may not have had time to see this post yet and I think you will enjoy it very much. It is titled: Pay it forward.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-42727-6.htm. I thought of it when I read your post, with your desire to give to others.
I have a post you might take some information from also.
It is titled: Been in storage too long. How do you get the smell out?
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-42530-1.htm
I also did a search on 'get the smell out' and there are several post that might have information for your situation as well.
I warn you: This board is very addictive. Your gonna love it!