ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Getting to sleep in a bed every night is something many of us take for granted, but for children in need, a warm bed can make a world of difference.

This year, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, in partnership with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, hosted the 7th Annual “Bunks Across America” Bed Build event, dedicated to providing children who lack a proper bed with a safe place to sleep.

The event focused not just on constructing beds, but also on raising awareness about the crucial role that sleep plays in childhood development.

Sleep is essential for a child’s growth, physical health, and emotional well-being. It helps their bodies recover, strengthens their immune systems, and supports brain function. Studies show that children who get quality sleep are more likely to perform better academically and have better emotional regulation. Without a bed to sleep in, children are deprived of these critical benefits, which is why this event was so important.

Volunteers from all walks of life joined the cause, working side by side with experts from Sleep in Heavenly Peace to assemble the beds. The event was open to anyone willing to give their time and help make a difference.

Dr. Jennifer Williams, Chief Community Engagement and Health Impact Officer for Phoebe, spoke passionately about the connection between the hospital and the community.

“It’s about community, and it’s also part of my role to build that connection between Phoebe and the community. We live here, we play here, we work here, we’re educated here, and this is our community,” she said.

Thanks to the generosity of volunteers and community partners, the children receiving these beds will not only have a safe place to sleep, but also receive a mattress, sheets, pillows, and a comforter.

Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital also donated $10,000 to Sleep in Heavenly Peace. This effort ensures that families can worry less about their children’s sleep environment and more about their future.

As Phoebe continues to focus on improving health and well-being, initiatives like these highlight the direct impact a good night’s sleep can have on a child’s life, providing them with the foundation for a healthier, happier future.

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