Each month, we feature a charity that is helping people through knitting and crocheting. This month, we feature the Knit One, Save One initiative, providing knit and crochet caps to mothers and babies in developing nations around the world.

Four million babies die each year within the first month of life in poor countries. Save the Children and the Warm Up America! Foundation have joined forces to encourage people who knit and crochet to make hats for newborns. This simple solution, which provides warmth to newborn babies can help improve the survival rate.

"We are thrilled to partner with Save the Children on this initiative," said Mary Colucci, executive director of Warm Up America! Foundation. "We are encouraging knitters and crocheters of all ages to host gatherings with friends and families, local community groups, or classmates, and to help us spread the word through their social networking sites."

The caps will be distributed to pregnant women and new mothers and their babies in Save the Children's global programs. Early next year, Save the Children will also take the notes to the President-elect in Washington, D.C.

Celebrities, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Debra Messing (of Will and Grace and The Starter Wife) and Lisa Edelstein (of House) have picked up needles and hooks to participate.

Knitters and crocheters can make hats using any pattern they wish, but keep in mind that because the babies that Save the Children serves are often low birth-weight, the caps should be on the smaller side. A circumference of 9 to 11 inches is ideal. Any smooth, washable yarn can be used.

For 11 free baby cap patterns, click here. For more information or to download an action kit with directions on how to donate, click to visit Save the Children's website.

Photos courtesy of Save the Children