Access to a good night’s sleep isn’t guaranteed for everyone, especially children in need across the Rocket City. Local nonprofit “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” joined forces with Latham Church to tackle this issue by building beds for kids without them.
Ann Kepner, dedicated to ending childhood bedlessness, reported that their initiative is set to provide over 1,200 beds to the community. She highlighted the harsh reality of many children sleeping in inadequate conditions such as on floors or couches.
Upon hearing these stories, Billy Bell and members of Latham Church sprung into action. Last Sunday, 70 volunteers from the congregation gathered to construct beds for children in need.
Bell, recalling his own childhood experiences, emphasized the profound impact of a good night’s sleep on a child’s well-being and academic performance.
“The difference it makes when you’re well-rested—it affects your school day, your ability to concentrate,” Bell noted.
Funding for the beds, along with bedding and pillows, was raised by the church. Each bed costs approximately $250 to produce, but Bell expressed no hesitation in allocating resources towards this cause.
“I believe there’s nothing more valuable than providing a child with a comfortable place to sleep,” Bell affirmed.
On the recent Sunday event, Latham Church successfully assembled just over 50 beds. Kepner assured that the process to apply for a bed is straightforward and accessible through their website, ensuring beds reach children aged three to seventeen in their primary homes.
