Making Mats for the Homeless

Turning Simple Bags Into Blessings

At Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, volunteers gather to turn recycled plastic bags into handmade sleeping mats for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

What may look like an ordinary grocery bag can become something practical, compassionate, and life-giving.

This ministry is a beautiful example of serving others with our hands and hearts.

Meeting Times

First Thursday – 6:30 PM
Third Friday – 12:30 PM

Meetings are held in the Family Life Center.

How It Works

Plastic bags are transformed step by step into durable mats.

The process includes:

Collecting bags
Flattening bags
Cutting bags into strips
Looping strips into plarn (plastic yarn)
Rolling plarn into balls
Crocheting mats
Preparing finished mats to share

Every step matters.

Many Ways to Help

You do not need crochet experience to participate.

Volunteers can help by:

Donating clean plastic bags
Flattening bags
Cutting strips
Making plarn
Rolling plarn balls
Crocheting mats
Encouraging others and sharing fellowship

There is a place for everyone.

Why This Ministry Matters

These mats provide a cleaner, softer barrier between a person and the ground while also reminding someone they have not been forgotten.

Simple acts of love can bring dignity, comfort, and hope.

Fellowship While Serving

Our gatherings are also a time of conversation, laughter, teamwork, and friendship.

Neighbors become family as we serve together.

Come Join Us

Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church serves Pleasant Grove, western Birmingham, Jefferson County, and surrounding communities.

We would love to welcome you to this meaningful ministry.

Donations Welcome

Clean plastic shopping bags are always appreciated.

Please contact the church for current donation details.

Next Steps

➡️ Life at Pleasant Grove
➡️ Chair Yoga
➡️ Elderblest
➡️ Welcome to Worship
➡️ Blessing Box Ministry
➡️ Contact Us