BIRMINGHAM, AL – Hope to Dream partnered with Red Mountain Retail, an Ashley licensee, to deliver a heartwarming holiday surprise to 30 children during a special event at the McWane Science Center. This exciting after-hours museum experience turned into an unforgettable moment when students learned they would each receive their very own bed, complete with a twin mattress, bed frame, bedding and pillow. Santa even made a special appearance to celebrate this magical moment. 

The students, representing 12 schools within the Birmingham School District, were thoughtfully selected by counselors and teachers throughout the city as children most in need of support. In partnership with United Way of Central Alabama, Hope to Dream identified these students to ensure the donation reaches those who will benefit most from a good night's sleep. 

“We are beyond grateful for our partnership with Hope to Dream, Ashley and United Way of Central Alabama. Their donation of 30 brand-new beds will ensure our students are able to sleep comfortably every night. A good night’s rest is key to staying focused, being fully engaged in the classroom, and flourishing academically,” stated Dr. Mark Sullivan, Superintendent of Birmingham City Schools. “The generous donation will also allow our families to enter the holiday season with not only comfort but a renewed sense of hope from their community.” 

Established in 2010, Hope to Dream has been dedicated to the mission of providing every child with a good night's sleep. Since inception, more than 190,000 children have received a brand-new bed. By providing these essential sleep resources, Hope to Dream aims to set children on the path to a healthier and more productive life. The program continues to grow through a portion of proceeds from every mattress purchase at participating Ashley retail locations being donated to Hope to Dream. 

"Hope to Dream is one of our favorite initiatives because it goes beyond giving—it creates comfort, rest, and a brighter future for children in need," stated Woody Marks, owner of Red Mountain Retail. "We love being part of something that reminds us how powerful a simple gift, like a good night's sleep, can be. It's more than amazing—it's life-changing." 

Hope to Dream extends heartfelt gratitude to Red Mountain Retail, Birmingham School District, United Way, McWane Science Center and all partners who made this event possible. Their generosity and commitment continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of children throughout Birmingham. 

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Hope to Dream – Hope to Dream believes that every child deserves a good night’s sleep. Founded in 2010 on that guiding principle, the Hope to Dream organization provides beds to children in need across the U.S. and Canada. Every mattress purchased from a participating Ashley retail location helps Hope to Dream fulfill its mission to provide every child with a good night’s sleep. Since inception, more than 190,000 children have received a brand-new bed. Those wishing to nominate a child can visit www.Ahopetodream.com or visit a local Ashley store for more information.    

Red Mountain Retail is a proud licensed operator of Ashley stores, delivering exceptional home furnishings and customer experiences across the Southeast. As a locally based retail leader, Red Mountain Retail combines the strength of the Ashley brand—the #1 furniture retailer in North America—with a community-focused approach to service, selection, and value. The company is committed to creating inviting spaces where customers can find high-quality furniture and décor at affordable prices. 

Woody Marks is a member of the Marks Fitzgerald furniture family.  His family has an 80-year history in the furniture business. He owns and operates 10 Ashley stores in Alabama and was recently named one of the Top 100 Furniture Retailers in America.  Red Mountain Retail is headquartered in Bessemer, Alabama, the city in which Mark’s grandfather, David Marks opened his first store in 1938. 

Ashley is committed to being your trusted partner and style leader for the home. This commitment has made Ashley the largest furniture store brand in North America and one of the world’s best-selling home furnishing brands with more than 1,100 store locations in 70 countries.    

Start designing your dream home today. Visit Ashley online at www.ashley.com. Connect on social media through Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok, and check out our design-focused boards on Pinterest.   

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