A Thank You From CT BEDS

Recipient of the Unsung Hero Award

There are moments when you are reminded that something you started has become so much bigger than you ever imagined. Receiving the Unsung Hero Award is one of those moments.

First, thank you to Fox and United Way for this recognition. It truly means a lot. But as I accept this award, I know it does not belong to just one person. It represents so many people who have played a part in making CT BEDS what it is today.

To every person who has received a bed from us, thank you for trusting us and allowing us into a small part of your lives. You are the reason CT BEDS exists. Every family we serve reminds us why this work matters.

To everyone who believed in us before they knew how far this could go, who shared our name, made a donation, gave their time, offered encouragement, or simply told us to keep going, thank you.

To our partners and supporters, including Linens of Love, Deacon Dean, Jackie, Vertical Church, and so many others, we are grateful for you. Every contribution, every connection, every helping hand, and every act of kindness has helped put beds where they are needed most.

And to the organizations, caseworkers, social workers, teachers, and community members who trust us enough to refer families our way, thank you for being part of this work.

Sometimes the people doing the most important work are the ones nobody sees. This award may have our name on it, but the work behind it belongs to an entire community.

We never started CT BEDS looking for recognition. We started because people needed beds. That hasn't changed, and it never will.

So to everyone who has received from us, given to us, believed in us, stood beside us, prayed for us, or helped us along the way: this award is for you, too.

With sincere gratitude,

Jonpaul "Jae" Rivera
Founder, CT BEDS

One bed at a time. One family at a time. Together.