Sussex Tech students create PLARN mats for homeless population

Spearheaded by Elie Christenbury, a Sussex Tech senior and active member of Multiplying Good: Students in Action Club, several students, family members and friends attended after-school workshops in October and November, where they created PLARN mats. 

PLARN is plastic yarn made from strips of plastic bags. The students cut the strips and crocheted them into plastic mats to provide a waterproof barrier to be used for sleeping on the ground. The mats will be distributed through local agencies to the homeless population throughout the state.

“It’s really nice to see my peers become active in the community and donate time to help others. Hopefully, we can make this a monthly event and increase the number of students involved in service opportunities like PLARN and other events. Teens can make a difference. This workshop is evidence of that. If a small group can come together, big change can occur,” said Christenbury, who is working with her club advisor to schedule additional workshops.

Sussex Technical High School is a public school which prepares Sussex County students in grades 9-12 for their future success in both workforce environments and higher education.