FAQs
- Who do Bridge of Hope affiliates serve?
Bridge of Hope affiliates serve single mothers and their children who are presently homeless or at immediate risk of becoming homeless. Bridge of Hope defines homelessness as a condition in which individuals and families have no residence, owned or leased, in which they can live safely and legally both night and day and in which they can meet their basic needs with privacy and dignity. (Adapted from the definition developed by the Coalition of Homelessness in Pennsylvania.)
- How do homeless families hear about Bridge of Hope?
Most families are referred to Bridge of Hope by social service agencies. Women usually apply to Bridge of Hope while living in shelters for the homeless, domestic violence centers or transitional housing units. Often local churches refer families to Bridge of Hope. Sometimes women apply to the program directly. These women may be temporarily staying with extended family members or about to be evicted from their housing.
- What is involved in the application process to a Bridge of Hope affiliate?
- If the applicant is being referred by a social service agency, basic information is obtained to determine if Bridge of Hope may be helpful for the family. Criteria include:
- willingness to work towards financial self-sufficiency through employment
- a desire to build relationships with mentors and to make constructive life changes
- minimum of 6 - 12 months of sobriety (if there is a history of addiction)
- at least 20 years of age with at least one child
- The woman completes and submits an application.
- Staff of the Bridge of Hope affiliate meet with the woman to review the application and further explain the program.
- If the applicant is being referred by a social service agency, basic information is obtained to determine if Bridge of Hope may be helpful for the family. Criteria include:
- How do mentoring groups work?
A mentoring group is made up of 8 - 12 people from within one church. A mix of women and men, singles and couples, young adults and grandparents works well in nurturing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual growth in the family. These individuals serve as positive role models and offer friendship and practical assistance to a homeless or at-risk single mother and her children. During the 12 - 18 months that the family is in the program, mentoring groups receive training and support from staff of the Bridge of Hope affiliate. The goal is ongoing friendships which will provide a supportive network for the family for the long haul.
