Families, volunteers help Bridging, give thanks

For immediate release

October 20, 2006

National Family Volunteer Day Nov. 18 can make a difference for homeless families

Bloomington families have a special way to be thankful through a shared day of community service on Saturday, Nov. 18.  City of Bloomington Human Services and the Bloomington Public Schools' Volunteer Connection are marking National Family Volunteer Day with a household goods and furniture drive to benefit Bridging and the 100 homeless families in transition the program helps each week. 

Bloomington families are asked to bring their donations of clean, usable household goods and furnishings to Bridging, 201 W. 87th St., 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., on Saturday, Nov. 18.  An open house with refreshments and tours is set for 10 a.m. to noon.  See first hand how donations help the community.

Bridging is a Bloomington non-profit program that helps families in transition turn a house or apartment into a comfortable place to perform the basic necessities of life; a table at which to eat, a bed in which to sleep and a dresser to hold their clothes. 

Help stock the shelves so over 16,000 individuals can establish a new home and a better life this year.  All donated items must be free of stains, tears and pet hair.  A complete list of Items To Donate can be found at www.bridging.org.

Working through a network of social service agencies who refer clients for shopping, Bridging will serve over 4,000 eligible families this year in Minnesota.  Programs benefit refugees, immigrants, victims of domestic abuse, survivors of natural disasters and the homeless with dignity and stability as they rebuild their lives.  Questions?  Call Bridging at 952-888-1105 or visit their website for a complete program overview and directions to the warehouse.