Murray and Margaret Dryden Sleeping Children

The Gift of Sleep: Remembering Murray and Margaret Dryden

On a damp, cold day at Park Lawn Cemetery in Toronto’s west end, I discovered the grave of one of the most generous couples in this country — Murray and Margaret Dryden.

Over 50 years ago, from their modest home at 28 Pinehurst Crescent in Etobicoke — the same home where they raised NHL goaltenders Ken and Dave Dryden, along with their daughter Judy — the Drydens started Sleeping Children Around the World. That very home still serves as the charity’s headquarters today.

The idea for SCAW began during a trip to Pakistan, when Murray tripped over a child sleeping on the street. Deeply moved by the sight of children forced to rest in harsh and unsafe conditions, he and Margaret returned the following year with 50 bed kits — each one carried from Canada.

Their dream was simple, yet profound: to provide one million children around the world with a clean, comfortable place to sleep. Inspired by these words:

“Sleep is like magical fuel for children. It has the power to make them feel better, think better and play better. Let’s give the magic of sleep to every child every night.”

That dream has not only been fulfilled — it’s been surpassed. Today, more than 1.7 million children in 36 countries have received a bed kit, thanks to the Drydens’ vision and the tireless efforts of countless volunteers.

After Margaret’s passing in 1985, Murray devoted the rest of his life to the charity. For his unwavering dedication, he was appointed to the Order of Canada and gave millions of his own money to ensure the charity would continue.

Murray Dryden passed away on February 1, 2004, in Toronto. He was 92.

1908-1985 (Margaret)

1911-2004 (Murray)