Volunteers make mats for homeless at Indian Trails library

Seventy participants of all ages met at the Indian Trails Public Library Monday, Dec. 7, to make sleeping mats for those who are homeless. Journeys|The Road Home staff talked about the issue of homelessness and how its clients will benefit from the mats. Other partners in the program included the library, National Louis University (Wheeling campus) and St. Edna Catholic Church.

"We were truly overwhelmed at the enthusiasm displayed by those who attended. Thank you to Jenny Reid and the Indian Trails Library and National Louis University for continuing to promote this project," said Carol Mulvaney, a parishioner from St. Edna and the project leader.

During the two-hour event, attendees learned how to crochet the bags together to form mats and were given materials to finish the mats at home. Between 500-700 thin plastic bags are used to make each mat. Completed mats may be dropped off at the library through the end of December for distribution to those in need.

"The interest in this project exceeded our expectations," said Jenny Reid, Indian Trails librarian, "Families and friends attended together and everyone had a great time meeting new people and participating in the service project."

Additional supplies for mats are available at the library, 355 Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling, for those who wish to make more mats.

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