Church turns plastic bags into sleeping mats for people in need
By Joyce Ogirri
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NEW ALBANY, Indiana (WLKY) — From discarded plastic bags to something that brings comfort and hope, a new ministry at Trinity United Methodist Church is transforming everyday trash into a lifeline for people facing homelessness and recovering from disasters.
Inside the church’s “Mission Depot,” volunteers gather every Tuesday morning to cut, stretch, and weave thousands of grocery bags into durable sleeping mats.
“To be able to offer something that brings some comfort and protection from the elements,” said volunteer Carla Roth. “We felt like it was a simple thing to do, and it could make a difference.”
Each mat takes about 1,000 plastic bags and up to 20 hours to complete, from sorting and preparing to weaving on a loom and adding a carrying strap. The group has already finished more than 50 mats.
“We’ve produced the products that’ll help keep them dry. Our mats are woven tight enough that they’re waterproof,” said volunteer Joris Kramer.
Once completed, the mats are rolled up, tied with handles, and donated. Some stay in southern Indiana, while others are shipped around the world.
“It’s magical to see their faces, to see them carrying them out of the facilities with the mats on their back. I hope they appreciate them. I know they do,” Kramer said.
For Roth, the mission is personal and ongoing.
“Until every person can have a safe place to sleep, I feel like it’s my responsibility to do what I can to change that,” she said.
If you’d like to volunteer or donate plastic grocery bags, call Trinity United Methodist Church at (812) 944-2229.
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