The beds were constructed by students at WNY P-TECH and donated to the Fredonia First United Methodist Church to distribute to families in the area. Mary Cole, Fredonia First United Methodist Church Mission Team Leader, partnered with WNY P-TECH to create the Blessing Bed project three years ago.

“The research tells you that kids that are well rested are better equipped to apply themselves in school, while those that aren’t, may have a harder time,” Cole said. “It’s in everybody’s best interest to make sure kids are able to get a good night’s sleep.”

The families in need are identified by local school districts, local churches, The Salvation Army, the Rural Chautauqua Ministry, the Resource Center, and the Child Advocacy Program.

The Northern Chautauqua County Foundation donated $2,000 to the Fredonia First United Methodist Church to purchase mattresses and bedding so kids are given a complete bed kit.

WNY P-TECH students constructed beds to be given to local families in need.

“We’ve been able to add this into our curriculum, so it’s been good for the kids to have the opportunity to do this year after year”, said Jeremy Bryant, welding instructor at WNY P-TECH.

Not only does the Blessing Bed Project help kids and families in need, but it also allows students at WNY P-TECH to construct beds using skills they work on in school every day.

The blueprint for the beds was originally designed by former P-TECH student, Joel Amadori. Current students used the blueprint and were able to construct 10 beds.

“When we deliver these beds, I’m shocked by the poverty we find in Chautauqua County,” said Cole, who has now helped deliver 48 beds in three years to impoverished families.

The beds are delivered on a first-come-first-serve basis, allowing families in need to get the proper sleeping arrangements for their children to succeed in school and everyday life.

“The feeling of joy that we see on those kids’ faces is something that I’ll never forget,” said Cole. “It’s really special to give them the opportunity to sleep well and to serve our community.”