Did you know that 2-3% of children in our community do not have their own bed? That means right here in Dunn County, children are sleeping on couches, sharing beds, or even sleeping on the floor. As a community member, you understand the importance of a good night’s sleep for productivity and well-being – imagine trying to succeed in school or personal relationships without one.
The Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) chapter in Dunn County strives to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives in our community. We are a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) organization that builds and delivers beds to local children who do not have a bed of their own.
At Sleep in Heavenly Peace, we believe service is about much more than constructing beds for kids in need. Our mission of NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN extends to building communities, transforming lives, and creating opportunities for personal growth and learning. Every bed we build demonstrates the power of service and the incredible potential that emerges when people come together with a shared purpose.
The Dunn Chapter began in August of 2021 when we built our first twenty-five beds. Since that time, we have built 295 beds and delivered just under 270. That means that 270 kids in our community now have their own bed to sleep in, some for the first time in their life.
We have a core leadership team and many community partners to help support the program ranging from financial contributors, volunteers who deliver beds to homes, to businesses, service and church organizations who sponsor builds with their financial and human resources. The Menomonie Lions Club has been a significant partner helping us with seed money and providing space in their shed to house our tools and complete beds. Their support has continued with an annual donation as well as special contributions such as a large donation from this year’s Lions Club Checkered Flag event. Many others have contributed with handmade quilts, new bedding, financial gifts and “build” sponsorships.
One of our financial sponsors is the Qually Family Fund, represented by Don & Peggy Qually of Menomonie. They have partnered with us and our UW Stout Women in Construction program to provide financial support for bed builds at the UW Stout Construction Lab in March/April for the last 2 years. “Peggy and I were overwhelmed by the need for beds for children in Dunn County. We felt it was important for us to contribute our time and funds to help improve the lives of our local children,” said Don Qually. “Constructing beds has brought us immense joy…sawdust and all! We have formed many new friendships, and we have enjoyed seeing the big smiles on the children’s faces. Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a great organization.”
Eligible children are under eighteen years old, must not be sleeping in their own bed today and there must be space in their home for the bed. With no strings attached, the child will receive a twin bed (bunks are also available), a new mattress, mattress pad, sheets, pillow and comforter or quilt. Our delivery manager, Dave Reidt, coordinates with our delivery teams to go into the home and set up the bed.
One unforgettable experience was just before Christmas when we delivered beds for five children just before Christmas. The four oldest children met us at the door with mom and helped carry in the materials, set up the beds and make up the beds. They were extremely grateful to have beds for Christmas. Rita Lunderville, delivery volunteer, noted, “That made my Christmas!” Joy is shared between recipients and our SHP team.
Bed-lessness is a community issue, and it takes a community to help address it. We are so grateful for our generous community. If you or your organization wish to get involved, please contact Mary Bygd, SHP Dunn County President at [email protected].
