Skip to content

With the belief that sleeping in a bed is a basic health need for children, the folks behind Bunks Across America have organized this annual event to provide beds for children in need.

History of Bunks Across America

Bunks Across America history goes back to 2014 when a catalyzing event inspired the day.

At Christmastime, founder Luke Mickelson noticed a social media post indicating that a family was in need of a bed. Instead of purchasing gifts for his own family for Christmas that year, Mickelson decided to build a set of bunk beds for the ones who desperately needed them.

After delivering this set of beds to the family, Mickelson learned of many more children who didn’t have beds to sleep in – inspiring him to begin a non-profit organization called Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP).

Since that time, the charitable organization has expanded to include more than 250 chapters in communities all across the United States.

Although SHP works to provide beds for children all throughout the year, Bunks Across America is a special national build day where carpenters and other volunteers get together to host the largest bed-building event in a single day.

Thousands of beds are built in one day across the US, which are then donated to families who are in need of beds for their children, with the mantra “no kid sleeps on the floor in our town.”

How to Celebrate Bunks Across America

Consider some of these ideas for how to get connected with celebrating Bunks Across America:

Volunteer with Bunks Across America

One of the most important ways that individuals can participate in the Bunks Across America event each year is by signing up to volunteer to help build beds through a local chapter of the SHP charitable organization.

Hop online to discover which chapters are looking for volunteers locally and then find out how to get involved!

Become a Local SHP Sponsor

Local and national businesses can apply with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to become chapter or national sponsors.

Raise awareness, provide advertising, create volunteering opportunities, learn valuable skills and make an impact on the community for Bunks Across America events as well as all throughout the year.

Make a Donation for Bunks Across America

Individuals who are interested in getting involved with Bunks Across America through financial help can make a donation through the SHP organizational website.

In addition to providing materials for making or purchasing beds, donations are also used for other help such as providing sheet sets, comforters, and pillows for children who need them.

Some monthly donations allow individuals to get even more involved by becoming part of the Bunkhead Club!

Apply to Receive a Bed

Families with children who sleep on the floor, a couch, an air mattress, or in a shared bed can apply to receive a bed for their child through a local chapter of the SHP charity.

Others might want to participate in Bunks Across America by referring a child or children in need of a bed.

Also on ...

View all holidays

National Eat A Hoagie Day

If you can’t make it to Philadelphia for the world’s best hoagies, pick up ingredients at the supermarket and make your own meat, cheese, and veggie sandwich.

National Cream Filled Donut Day

Soft pastry delights with a surprise inside, a delightful blend of textures and sweetness that brings smiles and comfort.

Gobstopper Day

Pop a gobstopper in your mouth, fire up a Willy Wonka or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory movie, and enjoy the pop culture treat brought to you by Roald Dahl.

View all holidays

We think you may also like...

-

Twins, Triplets and More Week

Extending a helping hand to families blessed with multiple blessings brings comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging.

International Stamp Out Spiking Day

Staying aware while having a good time is crucial. Protect yourself and friends by watching out for suspicious behavior.

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!