MISSION AND APPROACH
A bridge between acute instability and permanent housing.
Referral and eligibility
We serve families who are car-camping at the time of referral and need immediate stabilization.
Temporary hotel respite
We provide a safe, dignified hotel stay so parents and children can rest, reset, and prepare for the next housing step.
Transition to apartment housing
Our work is intentionally transitional. We help bridge the family to an apartment and a more stable foundation for the future.
WHY FOUNDATIONS CARE
A short period of safe respite can prevent a spiral into homelessness and create the conditions for a successful housing transition.
This is a focused intervention for a highly vulnerable population. It is practical, time-sensitive, child-centered, and designed to support movement toward permanent housing rather than prolonged crisis management.
COMMUNITY NEED
3,500 students
According to an AISD official, there are an estimated 3,500 students per year in grades K-12 who are registered for school without a permanent address. They may be doubling up, sleeping on a floor, or living in a car.
HOW FAMILIES GET HERE
The path to instability
Most of our families are single moms with young children. They have experienced complex loss involving eviction, job loss, profound illness, or having to leave an apartment because of flooding or mold issues.
The one thing all our families have in common is lack of community. Without a safety net of parents, relatives, or friends, these young families are on their own.
Most of them manage to stay employed at least part time, and all families in our program are required to have their children enrolled in school. They have hit rock bottom and are deeply thankful for a little help.
WHO THEY ARE
Our clients do not want to view themselves as homeless. We consider them our working poor. They are survivors. They persevere. They are not seeking handouts or engaged in self-destructive behavior. They are loving parents.
VOICES OF GRATITUDE
“Thank you. It feels so good sleeping in a bed and having our own space. The little things we take for granted.”
— Judi
“Thank you for all the families Family Bridge has helped this year. Such a blessing! I am eternally grateful for our partnership.”
— Stephani, Sunrise Diversion
“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to stay at a hotel. I’m overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity in making an exception for me. I’m going through one of the most difficult times of my life right now, and your willingness to help me has given me not just a safe place to stay, but also hope during a very dark time. Knowing that there are people like you who dedicate themselves to helping women in need means more than I can express in words. Thank you for seeing my situation and choosing to help. Your compassion has made an incredible difference in my life and I won’t forget your kindness. I’m so grateful and if I can help Family Bridge in the future, I would love to!”
— Kershenda