At Shadow Ridge High School, starting March 31st and continuing throughout April, Key Club is working on a project to create mats from plastic bags. These mats will be given to homeless individuals to provide something to sleep on and help them keep warm, while also reducing plastic waste. Plastic bags are common in most households, making it easy for members to contribute by bringing in their unused bags. With homelessness becoming an increasing issue in Las Vegas, Key Club aims to both raise awareness and provide direct help to those in need.

“Recycling matters because it keeps trash out of our streets, landfills, and oceans,” Jenika Gabo, junior and President of Key Club states. Even small things, like bringing in your plastic bags, can make a big difference for the environment and our community.”

Since plastic often ends up polluting neighborhoods and harming the environment, projects like this show how simple recycling efforts can have a huge impact on a community. By turning everyday waste into something useful, Key Club members are not only helping people experiencing homelessness but also protecting the environment. Actions from students are able to add up to a meaningful change and impact.

“It makes us feel good to help people in need and serve our community, and we are inspired to continue doing meaningful activities like this using accessible resources in our everyday lives,” Preston Curtis, junior and Vice President of Key Club states.

As Key Club members collect their bags as well as create the mats, members say the project is more than just a service activity. It has given them a chance to connect with one another while making a real difference for people in need. The idea that something as simple as a plastic bag can be transformed into a useful mat has inspired members to start thinking more creatively about service and sustainability.

“By the end of this project, we hope to help homeless people sleep more comfortably by providing them with mats made from recycled plastic bags,” Gabo states.

Members of Key Club hope to improve the sleeping conditions of homeless people through the creation of the mats. 

Overall, this project will impact both people and the environment in meaningful and positive ways. By turning plastic waste into something practical and durable, students are working to provide comfort and support to those who may not have access to basic necessities. Beyond the creation of the mats, the project represents a larger commitment to service, sustainability, and community impact.