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They call themselves Anchored Mouse, and they work every week to sew weighted blankets and stuffed animals to sell at craft markets in New Brunswick, Canada.
The project is the work of the Elizabeth Fry Society of New Brunswick, an organization that supports women and gender-diverse people involved in the justice system, reports CBC News.
Seven women in the province have been stitching together to break out of violence, criminalization, and homelessness.
"I think the biggest thing I've learned is that I can survive," says Shelley Thiessen.
"I can change the course of my life for the better, with love and help and guidance."
Thiessen says she struggled with addiction since she was a teenager and ended up with a criminal record.
When she moved to Saint John, she said she was unable to secure employment because of that record.
She says Elizabeth Fry worked with her for a year and a half to file her record suspension papers.
Thiessen is still waiting for approval from the parole board.
Weighted blankets and toys have heavy beads sewn into them to mimic pressure therapy or the feeling of anxiety being held, says Thiessen.
They are often used by people who experience overload.
"I come in everyday Monday to Fridayand I enjoy the sewing, I enjoy the
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