Will you help us celebrate with Mercedes?

We are celebrating that Mercedes* recently graduated from Bridge of Hope! 

Mercedes said: “As a kid I did not see much hope. Life was very difficult growing up. So, when I had to face the world alone from the age of 17, it seemed impossible. Becoming a mother of 3, with little to no help, I felt alone, lost, and terrified. At that time of my life, hope was nonexistent.” 

“It wasn’t until a church member suggested reaching out to Bridge of Hope [that things changed].” 

“Bridge of Hope is when I personally experienced true grace, support, kindness, and hope. Bridge of Hope entered my life and supported me tremendously. Helped me out of homelessness, they helped me obtain transportation, childcare, education, savings, faith, and create a forever bond with the community. No words can express my gratitude for Bridge of Hope, for how they changed my life. Don’t give up HOPE, there are still good people that want to help. They did not judge or shame me. Bridge of Hope welcomed me with nothing but love and support.” 

Mercedes received great support from her Neighboring Volunteers throughout her journey. They helped get her new home ready for her to move in quickly by painting, cleaning, and hanging up blinds. 

Recently, she received a large car repair bill and her volunteers helped her get a second opinion from a mechanic they knew, and the quoted price was much more affordable. Then, the volunteers had a fundraiser within their church and ended up raising the full amount of the repair! This helped Mercedes be able to graduate from Bridge of Hope in a strong financial position. 

Congratulations, Mercedes! 

*Names have been changed to protect the Neighboring family’s identity 

Rachel Thomas Steadman	Ty Williams
Program Director	Church Engagement Director
rachelts@bridge​ofhopeinc.org	tyronew@bridgeo​fhopeinc.org

Program Needs:   

• Car Donation – A family is in need of a car for the mom to get to work. A donation or a very affordable price ($3,000 or less) would be ideal. Bridge of Hope staff can guide you through the donation process.
• Employment –
  • A mom in the Exton area is looking for part-time office administration work that fits her kids’ school schedule (M-F, 9-3)
  • A mom in the Parkesburg area is looking for full-time office administration work.  Please send us any leads!
• Book Donations – We are looking for children’s books to share with families! For more information and a list of specific books, please visit: https://chestercounty.bridgeofhopeinc.org/give/donate-childrens-books/