Where to Get Free Beds When You’re Low Income

We’ve found free beds for low income people across America! If you’re struggling to afford a bed or even just a mattress, please know you’re not alone. Many low income Americans find it difficult to afford these things, so we’ve seen a rising number of our readers discussing bedlessness.

Bedlessness is when you don’t have a bed, even though you have a home to put one in. People who are experiencing bedlessness may share a mattress with others, sleep on a couch or even a pile of clothes, or even just sleep on the floor.

If you can’t afford a mattress, there are some places you can turn for help. In this list, we’re going to cover the top organizations we’ve found to help you score a free bed when you can’t afford one.

National Charities that Provide Free Beds

There are many national charities that provide free beds for those who need them. However, it’s important to remember that many of these organizations are run locally and have variations at the local level. This means that even if they offer free beds in one area, this service may not be available in all areas.

Beds4Vets

Veterans who are transitioning out of homelessness may be able to get free beds from Beds4Vets. In fact, this organization can help provide all the basic furnishings for your new home or apartment!

This organization can provide a free bed, including sheets and comforters, as well as kitchen and bathroom supplies. Veterans can choose what they want from the request form.

Beds4Vets will provide assistance to any homeless veteran, regardless of age, gender, or affiliation. However, they work with the local VA to identify veterans who are transitioning into permanent housing. You’ll need to ask a social worker or other VA employee to help you connect with them if you think you’re eligible.

Hope to Dream

Hope to Dream provides free beds for low income children and those who are transitioning from homelessness. This program specifically serves children between the ages of 3 and 16.

In order to receive a free bed and twin-size mattress from Hope to Dream, your child will need to be nominated. You can be nominated by a school social worker, case manager, church or other charitable organization. You’ll just need someone to fill out the nomination form on the Hope to Dream website. You will only be selected if there is a participating location near you.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Sleep in Heavenly Peace has an initiative called No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town. Their goal is to make sure that every child between the ages of 3 and 17 has their own bed.

If you have children in your household who need a twin-size bed, you can apply to receive one or ask someone to apply on your behalf. You must live in a SHP service area and have children between the ages of 3 and 17. You also need to have a house or apartment with enough space for the bed. You can apply on the SHP website.

Charities with Thrift Stores

As we’ve covered in other posts, you may be able to get free furniture vouchers from charities that operate thrift stores. These include well-known organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities and more. It’s not available at all locations, but we have seen this option in many areas.

The process to get these free furniture vouchers varies, but it usually involves applying and going through an interview process where you explain your needs. You may be required to provide proof of income, identity and address during this process.

Other Resources

Depending on where you live, there may be other options available to you in your community. Over the years, we’ve heard from many readers who have had success getting free beds or free mattresses from the following providers.

Furniture Banks

Furniture banks are like food banks, but for furniture. They can help you connect with large furnishings like free beds, couches, and more. They may also offer smaller items, like kitchen appliances, when donations allow.

Freecycle

Freecycle is a grassroots, online network of local groups where people give and get stuff for free in their own towns and neighborhoods. It’s a fantastic resource for finding free mattresses, as members often post items they no longer need, including furniture and bedding.

To access Freecycle, simply search for a group in your area, join, and start browsing the listings. Keep in mind that availability can vary, so it’s worth checking back frequently and being quick to respond to any postings that match your needs. Remember to arrange safe pickup or delivery when communicating with other members.

Buy Nothing Project

The Buy Nothing Project is another community-based platform, fostering hyper-local gift economies. It connects neighbors within specific geographic areas, enabling them to give and receive items without any exchange of money. It’s a wonderful way to find free mattresses within your immediate community, fostering connection and reducing waste.

To join a Buy Nothing group, you’ll need to search for one in your neighborhood through their website or app. Once you’re a member, keep an eye on the feed for mattress offers or post a request yourself. Remember that participation is based on generosity and sharing, so be sure to give back to the community when you can!

Social Service Agencies

Sometimes, government agencies like the Department of Social Services can help you find free beds in your community. They may know of resources that aren’t publicly listed, so it’s always a good idea to reach out to them for a referral.

This is the same department that is usually in charge of benefits like Food Stamps or TANF. I recommend reaching out to them directly for assistance.

Call 211

If all else fails, you can call 211 for referrals to other social service agencies in your area. This service is coordinated by the United Way and can help you find little-known resources in your area. I highly recommend calling them when you can’t find any information elsewhere.

A Word of Caution…

There are some risks associated with taking someone else’s used mattress. These risk include bed bugs, lice and other pests. Mold, mildew and other damage can also present health problems.

Always visually inspect any mattresses before you accept them. Look for signs of stains, tears, or sagging. If you see any of these, it’s best to pass on the mattress. If the mattress looks clean and in good condition, you can still take some precautions to protect yourself.

• Vacuum the mattress thoroughly: This will help remove any dust, dirt, or pests that may be lurking.
• Spray the mattress with a disinfectant: This will help kill any bacteria or viruses that may be present.
• Air out the mattress: If possible, let the mattress air out in the sun for a few hours. This will help kill any mold or mildew that may be present.
• Consider a mattress protector: A mattress protector can help to create a barrier between you and the mattress, further reducing the risk of exposure to pests or allergens.

By taking these precautions, you can help to ensure that you’re getting a safe and healthy mattress, even if it’s used.

Relief Recap

There are many ways that you can get free beds and free mattresses in your community. There are dedicated nonprofits and local resources like furniture banks that are standing by to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local agencies for more information and referrals.