For the past seven years, a dedicated group of women known as Caring Angels has been quietly making a powerful difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness in Sun City and surrounding communities. Meeting twice a week at Sun City Christian Church and in their homes, these volunteers transform ordinary plastic grocery bags into something extraordinary—hand-crocheted sleep mats that provide comfort, dignity, and protection.
The process begins with collecting plastic bags. Each bag is flattened, cut into strips, and tied together to create plarn (plastic yarn). Using a simple pattern made with just the double crochet stitch, volunteers crochet the plarn into sturdy mats measuring about 3 feet by 6 feet. These mats serve as moisture barriers, helping keep people dry and insulated from cold or damp ground.
The environmental impact is just as impressive. To date, Caring Angels has kept more than 203,000 plastic bags out of circulation and out of landfills. Considering that plastic bags can take over 1,000 years to disintegrate, this effort is truly a win for both people and the planet.
Each mat requires about 750 bags—a reminder that even small actions, repeated faithfully, can add up to life-changing results.
Caring Angels has even been recognized for its work receiving an award from the State of Arizona Volunteer Environmental Stewardship Program, honoring the group’s commitment to service and sustainability.
Today, the need is greater than ever. The group currently has a mountain of donated plastic bags, but fewer hands to turn them into mats. Many longtime members have passed on or can no longer crochet for extended periods of time. Volunteers are needed at every stage of the project—cutting bags, making plarn, and especially crocheting mats. Those who can crochet are the greatest need right now, and the pattern is simple and easy to learn.
If you are looking for a meaningful way to serve—one that blends compassion, creativity, and care for creation—Caring Angels invites you to join them. A few hours of your time can become a mat that offers warmth, dignity, and hope to someone in need.
New volunteers are always welcome. Come lend your hands and your heart—and help turn plastic into purpose. Materials for the mats can be delivered to your home or you can join the group at their headquarters.
The group meets every Monday and Tuesday morning at Sun City Christian Church, 9745 W. Palmeras Drive, Sun City AZ 85373. Call this phone number 623 972-6179 with questions and for more information.
