Mercedes-Benz of Augusta has donated $100 for every car that was sold in the month of May to the YMCA’s “A Place to Dream” program, which provides beds to children in under resourced homes throughout the CSRA.  Through their generosity, nearly 50 children will now have a new bed, complete with linens, a comforter, pillow, teddy bear, backpack of food and a children’s Bible.  Most importantly, they will now have a nice environment for a good night’s rest for the sleep they need and…a place to dream.
 
Recent published studies show the relation between poor sleep and cognitive, physical and behavioral health issues. These studies have demonstrated that people who do not get enough quality sleep have poor concentration, weaker immune systems, and are at a greater risk of developing obesity, diabetes, high-blood pressure and heart disease.
 
The CSRA has many social service agencies which aid low-income families obtain housing. However, few have the ability or resources to help these families turn this housing into a fully functional home. Thus, family members are often forced to sleep on the floor, on a sofa, on an air mattress, or several members trying to fit into the only bed they could obtain.
 
Fortunately, now the YMCA through a unique partnership with the Augusta and North Augusta Housing Authorities, has created “A Place to Dream” to help solve this problem and meet the widespread needs.
 
"We signed on to support A Place to Dream at the beginning of the year when we heard how widespread the need is," said Nate Cartwright, Mercedes-Benz of Augusta General Manager.  "How could we not?  So many of us take for granted every night, a comfortable and clean bed, which many of these kids have never had. Our staff has also pitched in for some of the deliveries in these homes, which I urge everyone to consider helping with. It will really change your perspective and increase your gratitude.  I would also other urge area business to follow our lead and step up either as a financial or volunteer partner.  It makes a huge positive community impact,” he added.
 
Families receive beds via an application process with area social service agencies. Started initially in November of 2017 with already more than 250 beds delivered in Richmond County and North Augusta.  Plans are underway to expand the program throughout the CSRA as resources and volunteer manpower will allow, with an annual goal of more than 500 beds by the end of the year.
 
“We are so grateful to Mercedes and all of our corporate sponsors.  Their selfless generosity is going to change the daily lives of these children in a powerful way,” says Danny McConnell, President/CEO.  “It’s amazing what a simple thing like a bed can do to positively impact a child’s daily life and health.”