Bridges Outreach, Inc.

Bridges Outreach, Inc. Bridges ends homelessness through volunteer-driven outreach and individual case management focusing on health, housing, and independence.

We form relationships with those experiencing homelessness while meeting their most urgent needs. Bridges began in 1988 when Ginger and Geoff Worden, from Summit, New Jersey, reached out to homeless people in New York one Friday evening. They brought homemade sandwiches, thermoses of coffee, and a genuine interest in conversation. Over the last 32 years, Bridges hasn’t missed a weekly Run (outrea

ch visit) into New York City until the pandemic. In addition to the Friday night Runs to lower Manhattan, we visit various locations every Saturday in Newark and on Sundays we go to Irvington. Since the pandemic, we now do street. outreach seven nights a week in Newark. Through its weekly Runs, Bridges' volunteers provide immediate necessities including brown bag lunches, clothing and toiletries to homeless neighbors. A run is an opportunity for our student and adult volunteers to share conversation, friendship and hope to work towards Bridges' mission of ending homelessness through volunteer-driven outreach and case management focusing on health, housing and independence. On a Bridges' Run understanding develops, caring overcomes indifference, a sense of purpose prevails and friendships are formed based on mutual respect. Volunteers are the backbone of Bridges. Over 60 groups from high schools (both private and public), houses of worship, civic organizations and businesses volunteer with Bridges and go out on the weekly Run. In addition hundreds of volunteers help Bridges fulfill its mission by making brown bag lunches, donating clothing, toiletries, blankets and other necessities.

Last night, we gathered for our Annual Board & Community Recognition Meeting to celebrate the people who make our missio...
06/03/2026

Last night, we gathered for our Annual Board & Community Recognition Meeting to celebrate the people who make our mission possible.

Together, we reflected on a year of impact, discussed our strategic priorities and plans for the future, and explored how Bridges Outreach will continue evolving to meet the changing needs of our community.

We were proud to recognize our dedicated core volunteers and the leaders of Teens Tackle Homelessness, whose commitment and compassion help drive our mission forward every day.

We also expressed our heartfelt gratitude to Jessica Mills as she transitioned from her roles as Board Trustee and Development Committee Chair. Her leadership and commitment have helped strengthen Bridges Outreach in countless ways, and we are deeply thankful for her years of service and the strong foundation she leaves behind.

Thank you to our board members, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters. Together, we are building pathways to health, housing, and independence for our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

This Pride Month, we honor our LGBTQ+ neighbors and acknowledge the barriers they continue to face — especially in housi...
06/01/2026

This Pride Month, we honor our LGBTQ+ neighbors and acknowledge the barriers they continue to face — especially in housing.

LGBTQ+ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness, and nearly 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+. Housing discrimination remains a reality for too many, and the impact is felt deeply across our communities.

At Bridges, we remain committed to creating spaces where every person is welcomed with dignity and care.

Everyone always deserves a home where they are safe, affirmed, and supported

(Sources: Garden State Equity, Kiwanis District of NJ)

Thanks to a generous donation, 200 lunches—along with additional essential supplies—were dropped off and delivered the v...
05/28/2026

Thanks to a generous donation, 200 lunches—along with additional essential supplies—were dropped off and delivered the very same day to neighbors in our community who needed them most.

This effort was supported by an amazing group of young volunteers whose compassion made a real impact.

Happy Memorial Day from all of us at Bridges Outreach!Today, we pause to honor the service members who gave their lives ...
05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from all of us at Bridges Outreach!

Today, we pause to honor the service members who gave their lives in service to others. Their courage and sacrifice remind us that true service is rooted in compassion, protection, and showing up for those who need us most.

We’re excited to invite you to our Annual Meeting & Community Recognition Event on June 2nd at 7:30 PM.This special even...
05/22/2026

We’re excited to invite you to our Annual Meeting & Community Recognition Event on June 2nd at 7:30 PM.

This special evening brings our community together to reflect on the impact we’ve made over the past year and to honor the volunteers and staff whose dedication helps us serve our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

We will also be welcoming our new board members, whose leadership and commitment will guide Bridges into the year ahead.

- Tuesday, June 2 - 7:30 PM
- Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad - 1000 Summit Ave, Summit, NJ 07901
- Light snacks and refreshments will be available.

We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate compassion, community, and the people who make our mission possible.

Interested in joining us? RSVP Here: https://buff.ly/5ksRaAT

With temperatures rising, bottled water becomes one of the most important items we hand out during outreach. Our teams d...
05/21/2026

With temperatures rising, bottled water becomes one of the most important items we hand out during outreach. Our teams distribute water at every single outing — and we’re running low.

We’re also collecting several other essentials that help keep our neighbors in the community safe and supported:

• Undergarments for men and women (all sizes, including bras)
• Men’s T‑shirts (2X–4X)
• Shorts for men and women (all sizes)
• Rain ponchos
• Sleeping bags

If you’re able to donate, items can be dropped off at our Summit office Tuesdays and Thursdays.

You can also send supplies directly through our Amazon Wishlist: https://buff.ly/LfRmnn4

Thank you for all your help in caring for our community during the warmer months.

A major thank you to Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child and their students!They packed and donated over 200 fresh sandwi...
05/12/2026

A major thank you to Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child and their students!

They packed and donated over 200 fresh sandwiches for our neighbors — a meaningful act that reflects dignity, care, and immediate impact across our outreach programs.

We’re grateful for your partnership and your commitment to serving the community.

During outreach at Penn Station today we had a really special moment with UFC fighter Josh Hokit. After hearing about th...
05/10/2026

During outreach at Penn Station today we had a really special moment with UFC fighter Josh Hokit. After hearing about the work we do, he took the time to shake everyone’s hand, ask their names, and connect with our team. It’s always meaningful when someone pauses to recognize the mission and the community we serve. Small moments of kindness like this stay with you. Thank you, Josh!

A huge thank you to the 87th Force Support Squadron for dropping off a donation of sustainable lunches for our community...
05/07/2026

A huge thank you to the 87th Force Support Squadron for dropping off a donation of sustainable lunches for our community.

To everyone involved — from packing to delivery and everything in between — your dedication to serving others shines through every step. Your commitment helps us continue showing up with dignity and care for our neighbors. We’re truly grateful for your support and service! 87FSS

Thank you to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable night at BRIDGEFEST. Because of your generosity and commitment,...
05/04/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable night at BRIDGEFEST. Because of your generosity and commitment, we raised over $77,000 to Light the Way Home in support of our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

The room was filled with conversation, connection, and compassion — from the energy around the auction tables to the meaningful moments shared throughout the evening. Every person who showed up helped move our mission forward in a real and tangible way.

Your support strengthens our outreach across Essex, Union, and Somerset Counties and helps ensure that individuals and families have access to meals, supplies, case management, and pathways to stability.

We’re deeply grateful for this community and the impact we create together.

Address

120 Morris Avenue
Summit, NJ
07901

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 12pm
Sunday 9am - 12pm

Website

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2DSHWUSZDUH2J?ref_=abls_nvfly_swo

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