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WHAT IS A PLACE TO DREAM?
Going to bed at night in a clean, comfortable bed is something we take for granted. Our community has many wonderful social service agencies helping low-income families obtain housing. Few of these families are able to turn that house into a home. Many residents sleep on the floor, air mattresses, sofas or crowded into a bed with numerous family members. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta wants to help these children get the sleep they need.
Research has found that children with proper bedding sleep an average of 20 minutes longer each night versus children who have unfavorable sleeping arrangements. That adds up to more than 2 hours a week. Recent studies link poor sleep with cognitive, physical and behavioral health issues. People who do not get enough quality sleep have poor concentration, a weaker immune system and an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.
AUGUSTA DUCK DASH
The annual Augusta Duck Dash, presented by Duckworth Development, supports the A Place to Dream bed program, helping provide children in our community with a safe, comfortable place to sleep.
This family-friendly fall fundraiser raises critical funds through event sponsorships and the adoption of rubber ducks for the signature duck race. The event features a fun-filled Fall Festival with activities for all ages, followed by thousands of rubber ducks racing down the Augusta Canal for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Every duck adopted and every sponsorship secured helps ensure more local children have a bed of their own and a place to dream.
We believe by providing less fortunate children the opportunity to sleep in a real bed, that they don’t have to share, will create a ripple effect in their lives and our community – better concentration leading to better performance in school, that could lead to more opportunities as they get older, helping to launch themselves out of poverty and break the cycle.
APPLY FOR BEDS
If your family is in need of a bed, please email Amanda Williams at [email protected] or call YMCA Team Headquarters at 706-922-9130.
HOW TO HELP
Bed deliveries are currently being conducted on an as-needed basis by each YMCA location. If you would like to volunteer or sponsor a delivery, please contact Amanda Williams at [email protected] or inquire at your local Y or complete our interest form at the button below.
