The Sleeping Mat Ministry creates plastic sleeping mats for the homeless. These mats help keep their bedding dry and also add a cushioning layer. The mats are created from used plastic shopping bags, therefore helping the environment while helping our neighbors in need.
PLEASE NOTE: Plastic bags are not being collected for this project at this time. |
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This ministry began in mid-March of 2020. At this point the team has created 89 sleeping mats. These mats are distributed in the Lehigh Valley by the Street Medicine Team of the Lehigh Valley Health Network. When extra mats are available, LVHN sends them to the Reading Hospital where they are distributed through their own Street Medicine team.
Images of some mats our team has created:
Each mat takes an estimated 500-700 grocery bags (a large trash bag stuffed tightly full), so it takes a lot of time to make a single sleeping mat. Every bag must be flattened out, folded, cut, strung together and crocheted. Carrying straps and ties must be created, then the mat must be measured, rolled, tied, and given a strap. None of the steps are difficult, but they do take time. Some team members specialize in one or more areas; others do it all. If you think you would like to help create mats, please contact the church office today!
Follow the link below for a slideshow of how the mats are assembled:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1XfdRqCAWgxHmDQVPKQ6luB1JATtKuRApEaNLoJVbHrc/edit#slide=id.p
What is needed to produce sleeping mats:
The Sleeping Mat Ministry Team would like to thank everyone for their donations of clean, used plastic grocery bags. Due to the large amount of storage space the bags take, bags will be collected only until the storage space is full. The Sleeping Mat Ministry appreciates your support!