Rhonda Lippe, RN, is known for her compassionate care in the rheumatology department at St. Anthony Medical Group in Oklahoma City—but her kindness doesn’t stop at the clinic doors.
In her free time, Lippe has taken up a unique and heartfelt project: crocheting water-resistant sleeping mats for people experiencing homelessness, using recycled plastic bags.
What began just a few months ago has already made a tangible impact. Lippe has completed and handed out two mats so far and is currently working on her third.
“It takes a while to do each one,” she shared. “I haven’t crocheted since I was a teenager, so I’m still slow.” But with practice—and a growing support system—her pace is picking up.
Her family has joined the effort by collecting bags, and her colleagues at SSM Health are pitching in too, not only donating bags but also helping make “plarn” (plastic yarn) for her to crochet.
The idea came to Lippe through her daughter-in-law, who teaches crocheting at her church’s ladies’ group. When someone in the class mentioned the project, Lippe knew it was something she could do to help.
“I thought this was an excellent use of free time in the evenings,” she said. “I see so many homeless every day, and this is something I can do to give them some comfort.”
This isn’t Lippe’s first act of quiet generosity. During the winter months, she keeps coats, hats, and gloves in her car to hand out to those in need.
“I’m very blessed in having a wonderful job and family,” she said. “I just want to be able to give some comfort and joy to others.”
The response from recipients has been deeply moving. “They seemed shocked that someone would take the time to make something for someone they didn’t even know,” Lippe said.
Her story is a beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
