A group of children in Sumter County will soon find it a bit easier to drift off to sleep, all thanks to the kindness of people and organizations from both within and outside the county.
Supporters in West Alabama have kicked off a new initiative to provide beds for children who, for various reasons, don’t have one of their own. The project is aimed at the same students involved in the ongoing “Fighting Hunger, Feeding Want” program.
This program, started in 2021 by a science teacher at Geraldine High School along with Dr. Brandon Renfroe, an adjunct professor at West Alabama University, began with just 24 students across three middle schools in Sumter County. It has since expanded to serve 72 students annually, inspiring similar initiatives in neighboring counties. Meals are distributed in partnership with West Lovema Food Bank and Heather Chambly, who oversees child nutrition programs in Sumter County.
The new initiative to provide beds represents an additional layer of assistance for those students in need. The project has personal sentimental value; Renfroe’s motivation partly stems from a request from his late mother-in-law, Myra Smith. Smith was known for her commitment to helping needy children throughout her long tenure in education at Fyffe Elementary School. Before her passing, she reminded him, “Don’t forget the little ones.”
Thus, these students might soon have more than just food support. The initiative aims to supply twin-sized bed frames, mattresses, pillows, and bedding. Notably, almost 30% of Sumter County’s residents live below the poverty line, making the need quite pressing.
The project’s funding goal is set at $25,000. So far, they have raised $20,000, thanks in part to a generous $15,000 donation from the Alabama Union for Healthy Mothers and Children. Dr. Renfroe has also committed $5,000 from his own salary to support this worthy cause.
Interestingly, shortly after Smith’s passing, Renfroe received an encouraging call regarding his substantial contribution to the Bed Project, which exceeded his original goal of $2,000. He mentioned that the timing felt especially significant.
This bed program is being coordinated by a dedicated team that includes Renfroe, Principal Dr. Mercy Barrows from Sumter County, Dean of Graduate Studies, UWA Dean BJ Kinbrough, and Heather Chamblay. As the school year begins, counselors will help identify students in need, and beds will be ordered via Amazon, shipped directly to the families.
In a time filled with challenges for schools and communities, these efforts speak to a greater truth: there are genuinely caring individuals striving to uplift others and create a lasting impact.
For those who wish to support the Secret Meals program, contact the West Alabama Food Bank. To contribute to the Bed Project, get in touch with Sumter County Schools.
