Thousands of children across Massachusetts go to sleep on couches, floors, or share cramped spaces with siblings because their families simply can’t afford beds.
BrightBridge Credit Union decided to do something about it.
In September, the organization threw its full weight behind A Bed for Every Child — a program run by the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless that does exactly what it says on the tin. They didn’t just write a check and call it a day, either. BrightBridge went all in with a three-pronged approach: rolling up their sleeves for hands-on volunteer work, making a $1,000 donation, and rallying their entire team for a collection drive.
Building Beds, Building Community
On September 19, BrightBridge team members joined volunteers from other credit unions for a Build a Bed event hosted by Tremont Credit Union. The event brought together folks from across the credit union community, along with partners like Elan Credit Card and the Cooperative Credit Union Association, all focused on one goal: assembling as many beds as humanly possible.
Picture a room full of people with Allen wrenches and determination, building bed frames that will literally change kids’ lives. That’s the kind of thing that restores your faith in humanity a little bit.
More Than Just Beds
But BrightBridge didn’t stop at construction. They organized a company-wide collection drive for new twin-size bed sheets and children’s books — because what’s a new bed without cozy sheets and a good bedtime story? Team members from every corner of the organization chipped in, ensuring that kids wouldn’t just get a place to sleep, but a complete bedtime experience.
It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that recognizes a bed isn’t just furniture. For a child who’s never had one, it represents stability, privacy, and a dedicated space that’s truly theirs.
Why This Matters
“Having a bed of your own is something many people take for granted, but for some children it can make a tremendous difference in their daily lives,” said Laurie LaChapelle, BrightBridge’s Chief Financial Officer, who participated in the volunteer event. “Helping create a safe, comfortable place for a child to sleep is incredibly rewarding, especially with the group of credit unions that joined forces to help build so many beds. We’re so honored to be part of this effort and grateful for the opportunity to support local families.”
A Bed for Every Child partners with businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers throughout Massachusetts to provide beds, bedding, and other essentials to children and families facing financial hardship. It’s grassroots community support at its finest — neighbors helping neighbors, one bed frame at a time.
And in a world that can feel pretty divided sometimes, there’s something powerful about people coming together to make sure every kid has a safe, comfortable place to lay their head at night.