Finding Solutions: ReStart Augusta providing beds to those in need
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A bed is sadly something not everyone has. ReStart Augusta is changing that, giving people comfort, rest and peace.
The organization is finding solutions in building and delivering beds to those in need.
We met with them at their facility today where they’re already at work fulfilling requests for 2025.
ReStart Augusta has been around since 2014 providing something a lot of us may take for granted.
“Honestly before I got really involved I didn’t realize the big need there was in our very own backyard for just a bed,” said Dianna Teagarden, community outreach coordinator at ReStart Augusta.
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Teagarden says to date, the organization has delivered more than 3,500 beds to children, families and veterans in the Augusta area.
“Being a former school teacher I don’t want to think of the children coming into school for what they’re expected to do having slept on the floor,” said Teagarden. “A bed is a basic need for everybody and unfortunately they’re people here that didn’t have one and we feel very blessed to help them out.”
And this isn’t just any bed, it’s a bed built and painted from scratch by a group of volunteers.
Larry Dinkins, Augusta ReStart president, says that’s what puts the synergy into the whole operation.
“We’ve made some improvements in the quality of what we’re taking to people,” said Dinkins. “We are sort of a one-time intervention, so we are taking them something that will last them a long period of time.”
They make close to 250 beds annually and say recently they’ve seen an increase.
“I think we’re now beginning to see people displaced through the hurricane,” said Teagarden. “They’re now getting settled into their new place and in need of a bed.”
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Once a bed is built, a bag filled with blankets, pillows, sheets and even gifts for kids are packed to go along with it.
Dinkins says this is all a first for so many people.
“You would be surprised how many children we take beds to who have never had a bed of their own, or slept in a bed since they were an infant, so you’re putting smiles on everyone’s face,” said Dinkins.
This is all made possible through donations from the community and other groups and businesses who volunteer their time to help in the mission.
We’re told they can always use new comforters, sheets and pillows for twin and queen-size beds.
If you would like to donate or see how you can help, visit their website here.
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