The Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus is excited to announce its support for the Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) initiative, a remarkable program aimed at ensuring that no child sleeps on the floor in our community. Former Worthy State Deputy for the South Dakota Knights of Columbus Mr. Gerald (Gerry) Dvorak recently shared the details of this initiative and our upcoming involvement.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a volunteer-driven organization that builds and donates beds to children in need. The movement started from humble beginnings, with a family constructing beds for children sleeping on the floor, and it has now grown to over 340 chapters nationwide.
The Sioux Falls chapter, which had been inactive since the COVID-19 pandemic, is being revived. Gerry emphasized the importance of this cause, stating, “The motto was, no kid sleeps on the floor in our town”. He highlighted the impact of the Brookings chapter, which has built over 2,600 beds, underscoring the significant need in Sioux Falls, which has a much larger in population.
Upcoming Events and How You Can Help
The local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace is planning a bed-building event and are inviting all KoC councils in Sioux Falls to participate. “It would be really nice to have all the Knights of Columbus councils gathered together as a group in Sioux Falls to do a build of beds”. During the discussion with Gerry it was mentioned that Holy Spirit is interested in hosting one of these builds, with potential dates being discussed for September.
Each bed costs approximately $250 to build, including the mattress, bedding, wood, screws, and other materials. We are currently in the fundraising phase and welcome any donations, whether monetary or tools. The organization provides all necessary tools for the volunteers, but bringing personal protective equipment like gloves and safety glasses is recommended.
Making a Difference
Volunteering for Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a meaningful way to make a difference in our community. As Gerry shared, “When you deliver a bed, it’s fully assembled with bedding and blankets, ensuring that the children have a comfortable place to sleep”. This initiative not only provides physical comfort but also brings hope and dignity to families in need.
We encourage everyone to get involved, whether by volunteering your time, donating funds, providing tools or delivering completed beds locally. Let’s all work together to ensure that every child in Sioux Falls has a bed to sleep in.
For more information on how to volunteer or donate, please contact the Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus, visit our local SHP chapter website, and keep checking our website when a day and time is set for our first bed build! Visit