NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — This week is U.S. Bedbug Awareness Week and a local foundation is trying to raise funds to eradicate bedbugs in Reno County.
"We received a grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation," said Sleep Tight Foundation Board Member Kate Lewis. "It was in the amount of about $5000. We've already used some of that for a family. We estimate that grant will run out by the end of summer."
Since 2018, the foundation has been able to fully fund treatment of more than a dozen homes to eradicate bedbugs, but eradication measures can cost anywhere from $500 to up to $2000 depending on the size and scope of the infestation.
"We've started what's called the Drive for 500," said secretary Monica Warren. "That's getting families and businesses and individuals to donate just $10 a month. That would give us a much more consistent response in support and allow us to help essentially 50 homes a year."
Bedbugs don't care if their environment is clean or dirty. All they need is a warm host and plenty of hiding places.
"We don't want that stigma of shame to be out there," Lewis said. "It can happen to anyone."
For more information on how you can help, go to their website at sleeptight.foundation.