1. Check the qualifications
Children ages 3–17 who have no bed of their own, living in Lucas, Marion, Wayne, Decatur (east of I-35), or Clarke (east of I-35) counties, or the PCM School District.
Every child deserves a bed.
Counting Sheep is a volunteer non-profit in South Central Iowa building beds and providing bedding for children ages 3–17 who have no bed of their own.
How it works
2. Apply
Fill out the application below, or contact Chariton First United Methodist Church. Paper forms go to PO Box 672, Chariton, Iowa 50049.
3. Committee review
Our selection committee reviews each application and prioritizes based on need.
4. Sign & schedule
If selected, a parent or guardian signs an indemnification form before delivery is scheduled.
5. Delivery day
Volunteers deliver and set up a twin bed with mattress, mattress pad, sheets, pillow, and quilt at your home.
Who we serve
We serve families in Lucas, Marion, and Wayne counties, Decatur and Clarke counties east of I-35, and the PCM School District. To qualify, a family must also:
- Have a house or apartment with a room large enough to fit one of our beds
- Be reachable by phone, text, or email
- Complete the application form
- If selected, sign an indemnification form before delivery
What a child receives
- Twin bed built by Counting Sheep volunteers
- Mattress and mattress pad
- Sheets and pillow
- A quilt to keep
- Delivery and setup at home
Bedding style and colour preferences are honoured based on availability.
Get involved
Request a bed
Know a child ages 3–17 sleeping without a bed? Apply online — it takes a few minutes.
Start an applicationVolunteer
Help build beds on build days, deliver and set up beds in homes, or sew and donate quilts and bedding.
Call 641-344-2635Donate
Donations of funds, new bedding, pillows, and quilts keep builds going. Call us to arrange a gift.
Call 641-344-2635Questions
Who can receive a bed?
Children ages 3–17 who currently have no bed of their own and live in our service area: Lucas, Marion, and Wayne counties, Decatur and Clarke counties east of I-35, and the PCM School District.
What does a child receive?
A twin bed built by our volunteers, plus a mattress, mattress pad, sheets, pillow, and quilt — delivered and set up at the delivery address.
What does it cost?
Nothing. Beds and bedding are provided free to families, thanks to donors and volunteers.
Can a school or agency refer a child?
Yes. Teachers, counselors, school staff, and agencies who know a child without a bed can help the family apply, or call us at 641-344-2635.
Are bunk beds available?
Bunked beds can serve two children. For safety, bunk beds are not recommended for children under age 6.
More information: call 641-344-2635, or mail a paper application to Chariton First United Methodist Church, PO Box 672, Chariton, Iowa 50049.