My Very Own Bed, a non-profit providing new beds for kids who are leaving shelters, hosted its Second Annual Steps for Sleep on Saturday, April 30 at DeLaSalle High School.
Low temperatures and rainy weather prevented most participants from walking the planned full loop to Boom Island Park and back, as outlined in the event description to promote taking steps for their health and wellbeing in addition to sufficient sleep.
Most registered participants were led through guided stretches in the gymnasium, walked the perimeter of DeLaSalle, and met back in the gym, greeted by more than 17 health and wellness vendors.
My Very Own Bed Founder and Executive Director of Michael Allen was happy to have this year’s Steps for Sleep in person. “I’m really glad to have this event indoors, especially since last year was held virtually. Our identity and community is based in Northeast, and the community has really supported our work going all the way back to 2014, when we founded My Very Own Bed. Our mission is to provide all new beds and dream kits for kids recently out of shelters and in need of a bed, while also promoting the importance of sleep for health and functioning on a daily basis.”
Stefan and Kate Smith enjoyed their time at DeLaSalle for the event. “There’s a lot of vendors, it’s fun to explore, our kids got their faces painted, we’ll be here a while! It’s a great cause, and a great mission.”
In 2021, 1,224 kids received new beds with 256 volunteers contributing more than 1,600 volunteer hours to help with this mission. The beds provided for kids have made an impact in many areas of their lives including school performance, home behavior, stability of sleeping location, and an improved sleeping schedule overall.
Below: One participant chose to run on DeLaSalle’s football field, while others braved the weather and walked the trail. New board member of My Very Own Bed, Stefan Smith and wife Kate Smith. Participants went through guided stretches in the gym. (Photos by Nik Linde)