Plastic bags woven into sleeping mats for the homeless! Please share. “Two years ago, the drop in centre in Lara was born. Initially, it ran out of the community centre but we outgrew that very quickly and had to find a larger space that could accommodate the ‘stuff’ we were collecting including many thousands of plastic bags.
“Our current project is ‘bags to mats’, we collect supermarket bags, cut them into strips, roll them into balls of plarn and then weave them on wooden looms into mats. To date we have made and distributed 45 mats and have another 5 to distribute to those who are sleeping rough or are homeless. The mats are light to carry and can be rolled up.
“We’ve been fortunate to have been assisted by the Lara Men’s shed who make our looms, and a lady in Werribee who donated our first loom and showed us how to make the mats.
“Each week we meet at the Uniting Church Hall at Sixways, and always have a cuppa and something to eat for those who just want to drop in and have a chat or sit with us as we cut and weave. We are a great support for each other.
“In addition to making mats we collect others items to distribute to Pauline’s house, Lazarus house, Outpost and the United Church in Geelong. These have included hygiene items both for men and women and also clothing.
“If you have some spare time we would love to see you on a Friday night between 6-8pm, check out our Facebook page or contact Lynne 0407 684 527.”
Story: Jacqui Bennett Photo: supplied
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