Our neighbors living paycheck to paycheck continually juggle their finances to provide basic necessities for their children. Furnishings, like beds, can be a luxury.
Yet, research shows that children need a good night’s sleep to prevent health and behavioral problems.
For the past 22 years, St. Vincent de Paul of Northern Kentucky has addressed this issue by providing beds for children through the Sweet Dreams Bed Program.
A twin size mattress, box spring/frame combo, and a mattress protector are delivered to children 16 and under directly to their homes. St. Vincent de Paul has the largest bed program in Northern Kentucky. It is unique for two reasons. Need is witnessed by the Vincentian volunteers while making home visits. In addition, the program provides beds year round.
In the last fiscal year (October through September), 525 beds were provided. In this year’s fiscal year, St. Vincent de Paul has provided 286 beds, well on the way to meeting the goal of delivering a good night’s sleep to over 550 families in need.
Research proves that a good night’s sleep can prevent behavior problems and ADHD, reduce the risk of diabetes, and improve the ability to fight infection. One factor that prevents a good night’s sleep for children is a poor sleep environment, like not having a bed. Getting enough quality sleep really matters for children. Arguably, those who are economically disadvantaged need it most to provide the energy required to meet the daily challenges associated with living in poverty.
Recently, a mother of four children explained the importance of this program to her family: “My kids and I were without a home and furniture. Once we were able to get housing, St. Vincent de Paul volunteers brought food and ordered beds for my children. Seeing them a little happier and seeing their beds . . . what they have given us can only be described as love,” commented Allison.
“Sleep is important for everyone, but paramount in the healthy development of a growing child. We’ve all felt the days that are harder when we are not well rested. Our Sweet Dreams Bed Program ensures that children in our community have an opportunity to get the rest they need, just one element to help even the playing field for those children whose families may be struggling in other ways,” remarked Karen Zengel, Executive Director.
This year’s program is possible through the St. Vincent de Paul donors and the following foundations: The Charles Dater Foundation, Kentucky Speedway Children’s Charities, Dr. George Renaker Charitable Foundation, and the Diocesan Parish Appeal Grant.
Their generosity has given children in Northern Kentucky a bed in which to dream sweet dreams.
To one mother, such a gift can only be described as love.
St. Vincent de Paul