A mother and full-time employee, Kameshia and her daughter were thrilled to move into their new home six months ago. Kameshia secured housing and a referral to Bridging through partner agency Salvation Army. With the assistance of volunteers, she enjoyed a virtual shopping experience at Bridging that exceeded her expectations. “I was having some car…
A father, U.S. Veteran, and a native of St. Paul, Roland is glad to be living in the heart of his old neighborhood. At age 54, Roland’s incredible work ethic and optimism have equipped him for fulfilling adventures across the country and overseas, and eventually at Bridging. With optimism and wisdom — and always…
Providing Housing Resources for New Paths in Minnesota Evgeniia is a Refugee Program Housing Specialist at Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC), a Bridging agency partner. Committed to advocacy and community partnerships, this multi-faceted organization in Minneapolis provides critical support to refugees as they transition to self-sufficiency. Individuals who receive refugee status in the United States…
Julie Moen is top-notch Bridging volunteer and a longtime educator. An exceptional listener, she hones in on each person’s unique needs. She is a positive and creative resource, and her greatest satisfaction is being present as someone feels empowered and reaches an important goal. As a special education teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin School District, she…
A former client of Bridging, Lori is a seasoned storyteller and a talented public speaker. She studied journalism and embarked on a multi-decade career in the field. Working in advertising, communications, and marketing for reputable Twin Cities businesses, she shared her writing expertise across a variety of sectors including financial services, healthcare, and special education….
Lives We Touch: Caseworker Ella Washington, Breaking Free* Housing Advocate Ella Washington “wears many hats” at Breaking Free, an organization with a mission to end all forms of sex trafficking and prostitution. Breaking Free empowers survivors of sex trafficking and prostitution by providing housing services, case management, advocacy, referrals, and other resources. Working at…
IN 1999, Andrea K. literally ran away from drug court in Gary, Indiana and moved to Minnesota to begin again. After struggling with addiction, “in a God-given moment of sanity,” she says she turned herself in to get an alcohol and drug screening and entered treatment. After many months of treatment she came out of…
It’s official! As of July 2019, Bridging is 32 years-old and still serving its mission with great enthusiasm each and every day. Thanks to our Founder Fran Heitzman, his incredible vision and passion has driven our community of volunteers, donors and staff for more than thirty years.
Squirrel was referred to Bridging by Radias Health—she had been homeless for the last three years after her friend passed away. She says she spent many nights at a local grocery store coloring her elaborate paisley designs, and the employees there always took good care of her.
“My shopping trip was like Christmas, my birthday, Mother’s Day, and every holiday for the next five years all in one! I found everything. I didn’t expect all the stuff I got! I feel so grateful and blessed.” At Bridging, the energy was warm and inviting. The guy at the desk was so nice. Alyssa…