Club Chronicles: Retired educators learn about Sleep in Heavenly Peace

The Franklin County Education Retirees held their final meeting of the year May 19 at the Russellville First United Methodist Church Ministry Center.

The program, “Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” was presented by Lisa Wiles, a retired principal, who works with the organization.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace is an American nonprofit organization that builds and delivers beds to children who don’t have beds to sleep in. Luke and Heidi Mickelson founded SHP in 2012 in Twin Falls, Idaho.

All children deserve a safe, comfortable place to lay their heads. In Idaho and across the U.S., too many boys and girls go without a bed – or even a pillow – to sleep on. These children end up sleeping on couches, blankets and even floors. This can affect their happiness and health.

That’s where Sleep in Heavenly Peace comes in. SHP is a group of volunteers dedicated to building, assembling and delivering top-notch bunk beds to children and families in need. The organization has grown steadily, with more than 250 local chapters nationwide in different states.

Lauderdale and Colbert counties have local Sleep in Heavenly Peace chapters. Volunteers meet to build beds – and they have 100 children on the waiting list for beds. Each bed includes a mattress, sheets and pillows

The cost of a single bed is $200, and a bunk bed is $400. Donations are accepted to build these beds and to provide accessories.

The next meeting time for volunteers to meet and build beds is June 12 at Lowe’s in Florence, and volunteers are welcome.

The Franklin County Education Retirees made a $100 donation to SHP Lauderdale Chapter.

Sandy Gibson, president, presided over the meeting, with Gayle McAlister presenting the devotion. A luncheon was held for all attendees.

In the business session an update was given on the recent legislative session.

Next year will kick off with the retirees meeting Oct. 20 at the Russellville First United Methodist Church Ministry Center.