Employees from Newport News Shipbuilding’s Quality Division recently helped provide beds for nearly 30 local children. The team partnered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a national nonprofit organization with a local chapter that builds, assembles and delivers bunk beds to children and families in need.

“I’m always amazed at the generous hearts of shipbuilders. Our Engagement Champions took the lead to get the entire division engaged in raising the money and lining up volunteers. The goal was to raise funds for 20 beds, and the team exceeded this goal – 27 kids off the floor into a bed. We had a great turnout on the build day,” said Julia Jones, vice president of Quality, who had previously volunteered with SHP. “I’m proud to be part of this team with generous and caring hearts.”

Quality Division employees raised more than $5,000, and 47 volunteered during a build day in March. Justin Smith was among the shipbuilders who supported the effort. The experience opened his eyes to a need in the community he hadn’t considered – children who lack adequate beds.

“The day of the build was a fantastic experience. The beds are hand built in an assembly line, and as our group manned the stations we were full steam ahead. The SHP staff put a lot of importance on quality control. These beds need to be exact so they can be put to use immediately when they are delivered. SHP were in good hands with the Quality Division,” Smith said.

Shipbuilders hope their support of SHP spreads to other departments and beyond.

“I am glad I got to learn about this organization. As a result of my involvement, friends and family want to support them as well,” said Ashlan Middleton.