A good night’s sleep is essential for a child’s well-being and success. Yet, for many students across Edmonton, having a bed of their own is not a given.
Thanks to the generosity of Ashley Furniture’s A Hope to Dream program, 30 students at amiskwaciy Academy received brand-new beds, complete with mattresses, bedding, and pillows — ensuring that they have a warm and comfortable place to sleep at night.
For these students and their families, it was more than just a bed; it was a gift of dignity, care, and comfort.
“The holiday season is often emotional in our school hallways, as many students don’t look forward to the holidays the way others do,” says Mona Markwart, Principal at amiskwaciy Academy. “The donation from Ashley Furniture lifted the spirits of both students and staff. Everybody was thrilled. And then when we started calling parents, they couldn’t believe it. They thought it was a scam or that there was a catch. But it wasn’t — it was just kindness.”
Making an impact, one student at a time
For many students, school is a place of stability — a space where they can focus, feel safe, and be supported. However, challenges at home, such as a lack of resources and food insecurity, can make it difficult for students to thrive.
For Mona and her staff at amiskwaciy, this donation was more than a bed. It was a life-changing gift.
“We don’t understand how much something as simple as a blanket can mean,” says Mona. “These kids were thrilled to have something that was just theirs — something that wasn’t second-hand or a hand-me-down. The donation provided more than just physical comfort — it sent a message: You are seen. You are valued. You are cared for.”
The power of corporate generosity
Through the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation, Ashley Furniture’s Hope to Dream initiative became a reality for 30 students and their families.
Over the years, corporate and community partners have played a significant role in providing resources like Chromebooks and other essential supplies to students across Edmonton Public Schools. The generosity of these donations can change the lives of students, creating a stronger connection to their community.
For staff at amiskwaciy, it was clear that the team at Ashley Furniture understood the families they were serving.
“Many of our families rely on public transit. The fact that Ashley Furniture arranged deliveries meant that these beds actually reached the students who needed them most,” says Mona. “It was a seamless, well-thought-out process that showed a real understanding of the community.”
To show their gratitude, amiskwaciy’s students, dancers, and drummers have even offered to perform at an Ashley Furniture event to give back. “If they ever have a meeting, we would be honoured to sing and drum for them. It’s the least we can do.”
Our heartfelt thank you
On behalf of the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation and amiskwaciy Academy, thank you to Ashley Furniture for this incredible gift. To learn more about Ashley Furniture’s A Hope To Dream campaign, visit www.ahopetodream.com.
Get involved
While this donation has made a world of difference, the need for support continues. Many students across Edmonton face barriers to basic necessities—whether it’s food, technology, or a place to sleep.
Learn more, get involved and donate today at Edmonton Public Schools Foundation.