On Saturday, Sept. 13, the Dent County Fire Protection District (DCFPD) will open its doors, and its parking lot to host a special community build event with Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a national nonprofit dedicated to making sure every child has a bed to sleep in. Volunteers from SHP, DCFPD, and the community will come together at 9:00 a.m. at the DCFPD Headquarters, 2 South Main St., to build and assemble beds for children in the local area who would otherwise be sleeping on the floor.
“Firefighters are here to protect our community in emergencies, but our commitment goes far beyond fighting fires,” said Fire Chief Dennis Floyd of DCFPD. “By partnering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, we’re helping meet a basic need that directly impacts some of the most vulnerable in our community.”
The event is open to volunteers and spectators who want to see the process, learn more about SHP’s mission, or support the effort through donations. SHP provides all materials and tools; community members provide the time and heart to make it happen.
“Too many kids in our area are going to sleep each night without a bed of their own,” said SHP Chapter President Patti McKeown. “We are grateful to the Dent County Fire Protection District for giving us the space and support to make this build possible.”
SHP provides beds for children ages 3–17. In addition to monetary donations, SHP is in need of bedding. Items must be new and in original packaging and twin size. This can include flat or fitted sheets, blankets, quilts, pillows, and pillowcases. With each delivery, SHP sets up the bed and makes it for the child.
What: Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Build hosted by Dent County Fire Protection District
When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: DCFPD Headquarters, 2 South Main St., Salem, MO
Who: Volunteers from SHP, DCFPD, and the community
