The Gatton Staff Council is launching an innovative approach to helping the homeless by transforming plastic waste into warmth with 'Plarning.' What exactly is plarning?
PLastic + yARN, (plarn) is what is used to knit or crochet re-purposed plastic shopping bags into sleeping mats. These mats can be used by unsheltered homeless individuals to provide a waterproof barrier for sleeping on the ground. This initiative was led by the Gatton Staff Council with dozens of faculty and staff participating by donating bags, prepping the bags for weaving, and weaving the bags.
The staff council kicked off this event as on ongoing effort for Lexington's Hope Center, which will continue until the end of the fall 2023 semester. If you're interested in helping, bags are available in the staff lounge on the 3rd floor. To learn how to weave the mats, watch this instructional video. For more information, please email staff council .
The Gatton Staff Council functions as an advisory group to the administration and to the staff it represents by providing an operational framework for discussions and communication of issues, policies, and activities relating to the staff of the College. The Council promotes interaction and communication among all levels of employees in the enhancement of goals, purposes, and functions of the Gatton Community. The Council serves to benefit the staff through advocacy and the surrounding community through service.
