60 kids receive free beds as part of ‘A Place to Dream’ program

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Kids in our community, sleeping on the floor, couch, or in a bed with a sibling now have their own place to rest this holiday season.

Since launching in 2019, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia’s “A Place to Dream” program has delivered more than 600 complete bed sets to children across Savannah. On Tuesday morning, 60 more got one along with a flashlight, blanket, books, a bible, and more to stay safe this season.

YMCA of Coastal Georgia President and CEO Joel Smoker said this program started after seeing another YMCA offering the same kind of help in Texas years ago.

“YMCA is, of course, about fitness, but we’re also about youth development, and we just think that if a child has a bed to sleep on, then they’re going to be able to be successful at school each and every day,” he said.

With the help of Georgia Power volunteers and assistance from the Housing Authority of Savannah leadership – they can find families in need.

Evette Hester, Housing Authority of Savannah Executive Director, said, “With things that are less affordable, having a bed, a new bed, that a family may not be able to afford, is a blessing.”

Project Manager Ashley Chisholm said their volunteer organization, called, “Citizens of Georgia Power,” chose this event as their legacy project, donating money to help make sure the gifts are possible.

A few workers from Atlanta came down to volunteer their time as well.

“Being involved in the community where we work every day is just so important to us, and we’re really excited to be here today and hopefully make a difference,” she said.

Smoker said the program has extended to Statesboro as well after hearing what was happening here at the YMCA of Coastal Georgia.

“It just means everybody rolls up their sleeves, and it’s such a good feeling to place a bed in a home and to see these kids smile,” he said. “Everybody that’s out here today will go home a better person for it.”

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus with the Mysterious Santa Program in Savannah also helped bring joy on Tuesday morning. They have been providing a Christmas experience for people in hospitals and nursing homes for more than a century.

Mysterious Santa is now seeking volunteers for Christmas morning this year. Registration information is available on the Mysterious Santa Facebook page.