Students weave sleeping mats for homeless in Washtenaw County

Plastic bags perfect for mat making

Kristy Kazzi
Staff Writer

With a shared commitment to making a difference, the WCC student resource center has embarked on an initiative to provide comfort and support to those experiencing homelessness. The homeless sleeping mat project provides those facing housing insecurity durable and lightweight sleeping surfaces. 

Reflecting on his involvement, Milo Davis, an 18-year-old student at WCC, shares, “It just made me feel good to know that I’m giving back in some sort of way, even if it’s not direct.” 

“These mats aren’t the solution to homelessness or poverty by any means, but they do create some comfort and protection for people dealing with hard times,” according to Sustainablog.org, acknowledging the limited scope of its initiative. 

As of December 2023, there were 539 people experiencing homelessness in Washtenaw County according to the Office of Community and Economic Development. 

Despite initial challenges in garnering interest from WCC students, the initiative found purpose in donating these mats to local shelters. 

Kendall Delong, a work study student offering insight from the student resource center, emphasizes the efficiency of student involvement, noting that, “When students come in, it really speeds up the process and makes everything a whole lot faster.”

This empathetic response to homelessness extends beyond the mat-making initiative, as students and staff donated bags, time and support. The effort resulted in the creation of four mats, benefiting both WCC students and those in need within the local community.

For students seeking assistance, the student resource center remains a valuable resource, with case managers available to provide support not only for homelessness but also for food, finance, childcare and more.

Those interested in supporting this cause can participate in the upcoming event on April 11 at the Bailey Library on the first floor.

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