Do You Know a Child Who Needs a Bed?

Sleep in Heavenly Peace of Frederick County Continues to Deliver Free Beds

In 2018, Lou Stavely and Karl Rathvon started the Frederick County chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP). Inspired by an episode of Returning the Favor, hosted by Mike Rowe, Rathvon was moved by the incredible work SHP was doing and wanted to make an impact right here in Frederick County.

Since then, the all-volunteer nonprofit organization has delivered more than 2,600 beds to nearly 1,350 families in the area.

SHP leases an old dairy barn in Frederick, where the team has developed an efficient process that allows for quick bed deliveries. On any given Saturday, volunteers can build up to 50 beds in just four hours. The organization has its own dedicated delivery team, which installs each bed. All deliveries include a brand-new mattress and bedding. SHP offers families either twin singles or bunk beds.

Rathvon wants families to know that SHP is a judgment-free zone. “No questions are asked except for your delivery address,” he said. Research shows that kids perform better in school when they get a full night’s sleep. So, SHP continues its mission to ensure that no child sleeps on the floor in Frederick County.

For more information about SHP of Frederick County, visit shpbeds.org or follow their Facebook page at facebook.com/SHPFrederickCo.