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1992-08-28
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NATION, Page 31American NotesTHE HOMELESSA Coat of Many Uses
Each semester, students at the Philadelphia College of
Textiles and Science develop products to help people with special
needs. In years past they have stuffed caterpillars for children
with cerebral palsy to heighten their sense of touch. But the
school's latest project may represent the ultimate combination
of altruism and design: an overcoat for homeless people that can
double as a sleeping bag.
Known as a Shelter-Pak, the hooded, full-length garment is
covered with rip-proof nylon on one side and heavy wool on the
other. Depending on how it's folded, it can convert from
nighttime bedroll to daytime parka or even a backpack. Each
Shelter-Pak contains a deep pocket that is almost as capacious
as a duffel bag. Eighty of the garments have been distributed
to homeless people in Philadelphia, and the students plan to
turn out at least 200 more this year. Vows Assistant Professor
Matthew Mehrman: "We are going to keep making Shelter-Paks until
the problem of the homeless is resolved." Better keep the
production lines open, guys.