Mount View Care Center residents turn plastic bags into mats for the homeless

December 8, 2025

MARATHON COUNTY – Residents and staff at Mount View Care Center, part of North Central Health Care, transformed more than 3,500 donated plastic bags into five durable sleeping mats for individuals experiencing homelessness in Wausau.

Melissa Stockwell – manager of life enrichment and guest services at Mount View – said the mats, crocheted from “plarn” (plastic yarn), were handed over to Catholic Charities of Wausau for distribution.

“This project shows the heart, creativity and dedication of our residents,” she said.

Stockwell said the initiative also highlights meaningful ways long-term care residents can engage with their community.