WILMINGTON — “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town!”
That’s the motto of the group Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
Carrie Zeigler along with her husband Doug are the co-presidents of the Clinton County chapter of the nationwide non-profit organization that builds bunk beds for children who are currently sleeping on the floor or in an uncomfortable situation — like on a couch or in a toddler bed they’ve outgrown.
Zeigler became interested in the group after hearing the president of the Butler County chapter, Mike Watkins, speak at a Noon Rotary Club meeting.
“When (Watkins) spoke about it, it kind of spoke to me and my background prior to insurance,” said Zeigler, a former teacher and Holmes Elementary principal. “I knew the need was there. I didn’t know how great the need was.”
She went home and explained it all to her husband. Within six weeks, the two flew out to the national headquarters in Idaho, received training, and were ready to start the Clinton County chapter.
Since starting it last year, the Zeiglers have been the main people behind purchasing items, fundraising recruitment, and setting up build days.
They partner with businesses, churches and other organizations to build the beds at frequent Build Day events.
This is a volunteer organization with 100 percent of donations going toward building children’s beds, with some of the bedding and mattresses being purchased by them. Bunk beds are built, assembled and delivered — complete with mattresses, bedding, and pillows — through monetary donations and time.
“I’ve been trying to get the word out to the community that there is a need, and we need help to fulfill that need,” Carrie said.
The beds are usually made for kids between the ages of three to 17 ifor families that have requested them. The Clinton County chapter has already made four-and-a-half bunk beds (nine beds).
“Right now there’s a waitlist for 79 children in Clinton County,” she said, hoping the group reaches its 2019 goal of building 100 bunk beds.
Their next big build day is set for Saturday, Feb. 23 where they hope to build 10 bunk beds. She hopes to have that be the minimum number built during future build days each month.
If you or your organization would like to volunteer or donate money to help, you can contact Zeigler at 937-728-0986 or email her at [email protected].
