Higher housing costs remain a constant concern for renters who teeter between finding a more affordable place to live and homelessness. Hurricane Ian reduced the supply, then rising repair and insurance costs drove prices out of reach for our most vulnerable neighbors.

The Lee County School District reports that they have identified over 1200 homeless families. A large portion of these families call their car “home,” with basic hygiene, food supplies, safety, and personal dignity a constant challenge.

Even those who have managed to absorb the increased rents may be forced to make difficult financial choices among auto repairs, medical needs, utility payments, or even food.

Paula, the mother of 4 young children, had been trying to make ends meet since her husband passed away last fall. With only one set of hands and half their previous income, Paula struggled in her role as sole caretaker and provider, but her full-time job covered the basics.

Then the family car broke down. Alone, this single mom faced an impossible choice—pay for the car repair and continue to work but risk eviction; or pay the rent but lose her car and possibly her job. Paula didn’t know where to turn, but the social worker counseling the children did. She reached out to The Bridge Fund (TBF) for help and we said “yes.”

Paula used her funds to take care of the car bill, while TBF paid the rent —on time—the next day.

Steve organizes this event in honor of his friend Jim Stiger. This year, the Stiger Award for the highest total funds raised was presented to two anonymous donors. Congratulations and thank you for your generosity! 

Our sincere appreciation goes to Wizard Steve and all the volunteers and the sponsors that make this event something to look forward to every year.

Some years ago, a few retired ophthalmologists joined forces with Southwest Florida Lions Club members to explore how to provide free eye care to low income, uninsured residents. The result was the 2008 establishment of the non-profit Florida Lions Eye Clinic (FLEC) in Bonita Springs, working with a number of local medical professionals who volunteer or reduce their fees.

TBF partnered with FLEC in 2018, and since that time has financially assisted more than 130 uninsured individuals who have received cataract and other eye surgeries, greatly enhancing their quality of life.

Many FLEC clients work outdoors, putting them at risk of eye damage from UV rays. Even children who play outside need protection. FLEC provides donated sunglasses to qualifying clients, but when that supply doesn't meet the need, TBF assists with low-cost, bulk sunglasses.

"I am grateful that organizations like The Bridge Fund exist. TBF covers part of the total pricing of much needed cataract surgery for our patients. Once their surgeries are completed, these patients are able to return to work, care for their families and become independent. Thank you all who contribute to The Bridge Fund!”

-Florida Lions Eye Clinic, Bonita Springs

The Bridge Fund

A Pelican Landing/Colony-based 501(c)(3) charity

Board Members: Mike Beebe, President; Jim Herald, Vice President; Beverly Haas, Vice President; Ann Soper, Secretary and Treasurer, Ron Bloom, Caroline Crew, Aileen Kevane, Sandy Mellinger, Bob Taylor, and Jay Trucks

Contact us at: thebridgefund2012@gmail.com

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