Lorrie Deal had no idea when she went for her doctor’s appointment that a “God moment” awaited her, presenting her with an opportunity to join the Lord in ministering to the hundreds of homeless people in our community. It was at this appointment where she met Karla Groves from Eastern Hills Baptist Church who, along with other ladies, was making sleeping mats for the homeless using plastic shopping bags. Lorrie presented the opportunity to Eastmont Women’s Ministry and was joined by several ladies who began a Homeless Sleeping Mat Ministry here.
The ladies meet every Wednesday at Eastmont from 12:30 – 2:30 pm to make mats. Each mat measures 3’ x 6’ and is woven, using 500 plastic bags. Once the mats are completed, a lightweight blanket, a small pillow made from scraps, travel-sized hygiene products, a personal item such as socks or a knit cap, along with a Bible are rolled up in the mat. Then they are delivered to Reality and Truth Ministries in downtown Montgomery where they are distributed to those in need.
How can you get involved? Lorrie says there are several ways you can help. You can donate plastic bags or the items that are included. You can join their group on Wednesdays or you can do some of the prep work from home. They are also praying for God to raise up another leader to start a night or weekend group. Reality and Truth tells Lorrie that there is a never-ending request for these sleeping mats. Lorrie is amazed that “God is using something so simple to help people in such a big way.”
If you are interested in being a part of this ministry, call Lorrie Deal at 334-391-1382.
“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”Matthew 25:40
This article was written by Eastmont member and staff, Karen Bush.