At the Sunraising Foundation we’re always searching for new ways to creatively engage our community. We understand that sometimes finding solutions that contribute to positive change can be overwhelming. But small actions matter, and that’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new sustainability initiative, Bags to Bedrolls.
About the Program
The Bags to Bedrolls program transforms plastic waste into durable bedrolls for our neighbors in need. Give your used plastic grocery bags a new life and provide a comfortable, durable, and reliable place to sleep for someone experiencing homelessness in the Tampa Bay area.
We engage senior volunteers in our region to crochet each individual bedroll, simultaneously addressing the issues of homelessness, plastic waste, and isolation among older adults. In partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay and their Trinity Cafe program, bedrolls will be distributed to those experiencing homelessness in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.
In 2025, we aim to create 60 bedrolls and divert over 42,000 plastic bags from landfills.
Understanding the Need
The Tampa Bay area is no stranger to the issues of homelessness. Over 4,000 individuals currently experience homelessness annually in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater metropolitan areas. Many are unsheltered. According to Feeding Tampa Bay, roughly 94% of those experiencing homelessness in the region live outdoors. This highlights the need for portable and weather-resistant sleeping solutions.
While homelessness affects all ages, it can be especially difficult for older adults. Since 2018, Hillsborough County has seen a 67% increase in seniors seeking services.
In addition, plastic waste remains a significant problem, particularly in an area so close to one of the country’s most crucial waterways. Studies suggest that roughly 4 billion microplastic particles are present in local Tampa Bay waters. Plus, approximately 3.33 billion plastic pieces flow from the Hillsborough River into Tampa Bay each year.
Americans also use 100 billion plastic bags each year with the average family bringing home 1,500 bags annually. Less than 5% are recycled.
How it Works
When you’re ready to contribute, donate your plastic grocery bags at any of our drop off locations in the Tampa Bay area. Look for our donation bins with the SunRaising logo. Your donation makes a big difference! It takes roughly 700 plastic bags to make one bedroll.
We distribute your donations to our group of over 20 senior volunteers who break down the bags into a large yarn-like spool. During weekly crafting sessions, volunteers crochet bedrolls that feature extra padding for hip, head, and neck support. The bedrolls also come with built-in ties to keep the roll secure when not in use, and straps for easy carrying. Feeding Tampa Bay will then distribute bedrolls to those in need through the Trinity Cafe Program. We want to give a special shout out to Blake’s Handyman Services for creating a wooden loom to help our volunteers with the weaving process.
We are also incredibly grateful to our volunteer and partner, Joy Strawser Roudabush, who has been an integral part of weaving and distributing bedrolls to folks in need at Trinity Cafe. Stay in the loop on the program by visiting Joy’s Facebook page, Comfort & Joy Bedrolls.
Don’t have plastic bags but still want to contribute? Our Bags to Bedrolls fund helps purchase weaving materials for our volunteers including looms and scissors. Your contribution can also help us secure further storage space for donations!
