Imagine living in a world without a bed. For many children, this is their reality.
Recognizing that need, three Leadership Montgomery County alumni, Mike Fortner, Will Warren, and Tom Michel, established the local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace in 2021. The nonprofit’s mission is simple but profound: ensure every child has a place to rest at night.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace began in 2012 in Twin Falls, Idaho, when Luke Mickelson built a simple twin bed and gave it away to teach his children gratitude. That act grew into a nationwide movement. Today, over 350 chapters across the country build and deliver beds to children who need them most. The Montgomery County chapter proudly carries on this mission, ensuring local children have comfort, security, and a place to dream.
According to the chapter, 327 children are currently waiting for a bed in Montgomery County.
Beds for Weary Heads
One bed delivery has stayed with the team. On the anniversary of Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s founding, they received word of a foster family preparing to welcome six children that very evening. Though outside their usual service area, the volunteers did not hesitate.
“We were thrilled to help so many kids in one home,” says Fortner.
As the beds were assembled, the children arrived. They were curious, cautious, and carrying the weight of experiences beyond their years. By the time the team finished, every child had a bed to call their own.
Before they left, the oldest boy, just 17, quietly thanked the volunteers. He explained he could not recall the last time he had slept on a mattress. In every shelter or temporary home, he gave up the bed so his younger siblings could rest.
“That evening changed us,” Fortner says. “We have never forgotten those children.”
Since its founding, the Montgomery County chapter has delivered more than 3,800 beds to children ages three to 17 across the community.
“There is no screening process beyond the delivery address being in Montgomery County. In 2025, we expanded to serve New Waverly,” says Warren. “The beds are delivered with a mattress, bedding, and a pillow. We do our best to match the color preferences of the children.”
A Community Effort
The chapter thrives on the dedication of its organizers and the generosity of donors.
“We have amazing leaders both behind the scenes and client-facing who volunteer many hours to help us serve our community.”
To date, volunteers have contributed over 36,000 hours, a testament to the partnerships that allow the Montgomery County chapter to flourish.
“Our volunteers are truly devoted to helping kids find comfort. They are resilient and kind and the very best of what our county has to offer,” says Jennifer Hudson Fortner, who is on the founding leadership team.
Early supporters include members of Young Men’s Service League, National Charity Roundtable, National Charity League, and corporations such as HP, Walmart, McCoy’s, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.
Building to Give Back
During their building process, the Sleep in Heavenly Piece team cuts raw lumber and constructs it into beds with bolts and screws, then prepares it for delivery. Headboards are assembled ahead of time and branded. Construction takes place throughout the year, with two delivery dates scheduled for December to meet holiday needs. Volunteers often adjust schedules to avoid the hottest months, ensuring safer and more comfortable workdays.
What truly matters is the comfort, dignity, and security each finished bed brings to a child. As Fortner reminds the community, their guiding motto says it all:“NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN!”
For more information, visit https://shpbeds.org/chapter/tx-montgomery-co/.