Bridges of Hope Works with Sponsors to Help Give Thanksgiving Meals to Families

Based in Brainerd, Bridges of Hope is an organization that aims to help people in need who are facing challenges financially. Around Thanksgiving, the organization helps the less fortunate get food on the table for a day in our country where the pressure to have a big meal for the family leaves some discouraged.

“This year, we had a record number of families apply [for help],” said Bridges of Hope executive director Jana Shogren. “We are supplying 209 meals in the community – I should say, our sponsors are supplying 209 meals in the community.”

Bridges acts as sort of a middleman. The families apply for a meal and reach out with their information to Bridges, who in turn gives the information of the families to sponsors.

“Sponsors tend to be individuals, groups of coworkers, or people at churches who want to shop for, put together the ingredients, and deliver all all the fixings for a Thanksgiving meal for a family,” explained Shogren.

This past Sunday, parishioners of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church put together 39 Thanksgiving baskets, which included a full spread perfect for Turkey Day. By providing families with the hope that is sometimes lost during the holiday season, everyone involved with Bridges of Hope takes great delight in helping the needy.

“They’re recognizing that holidays are difficult for people sometimes,” said Melissa Schmidt, former board member with Bridges of Hope. “And now, having worked for the organization as a professional, now being in an informal support, it means a lot to be able to continue that work of helping community members who maybe are not walking the same path in life as me.”

“I feel so lucky. I mean, I think I have one of the best jobs in the world,” added Shogren. “You know, I get to help figure out, how do we solve these problems? How can I support our staff to to make a difference in people’s lives? And how do we get to see God’s work in action in our community through our organization? It’s really special.”

The families receiving meals live in Crow Wing County and surrounding areas, including the school districts of Pillager, Pine River, and Aitkin.