The Get Healthy Simpson Coalition sponsors a sixth grade health fair each year.  This year was no exception however, we were without the booth where the Red Cross would be vendor.  they usually give out information on preparing for emergencies by filling a back pack with supplies and keeping the bag in a location that would be easily accessible.  The FCS agent, chair of the coalition was explaining this concept to two students who listened intently, but stated that keeping the bag under a bed was not possible since their "beds" were either on the floor or on the couch.  Bringing this story back to the coalition inspired the development of a committee that began with a plan to raise money for beds to be built by community members and distributed to families in need of beds for their children.  With the help of this committee, community donations, the Lion's Club, the local Walmart, a church building team, the Agriculture teacher and his class, a local church ladies group and the Leadership Alumni, we have raised over $5000, built 25 beds and delivered 20 to needy families in our community. Five beds are being held in reserve for future needs until the campaign and building process can begin again in the fall and spring.

As deliveries were made, we were met with cheers, tears and overwhelming gratitude from both parents and children for the gift of these beds.  One mother said, "You don't realize what a blessing this is to our family!"