History
The Bridge Fund of New York Inc.
Response to Pandemic Housing Crisis
Westcher program saw an additional nearly 1,000 requests for assistance through our share of the Yonkers Emergency Rental Assistance Program (Y-ERAP). This program was designed to assist low to moderate income Yonkers residents who had an increase in expenses or a decrease in income due to the pandemic shutdowns hold onto their housing.
Income Growth Initiative
Launched in January 2020, the Income Growth Initiative (IGI) helps clients improve their household income and reduce their rent burden.
NYC Program Celebrates 25th Year
The Bridge Fund of New York City marks its 25th year of preventing homelessness.
25 Years Serving Westchester
The Bridge Fund of Westchester celebrates 25 years; The County Executive sends a special proclamation honoring The Bridge Fund of Westchester.
Support Veterans
The Bridge Fund begins providing financial assistance to Afghanistan War veterans who were facing eviction.
Victims of Hurricane Sandy
Hurricane Sandy hits New York City in October. The Bridge Fund focuses on helping victims of the storm who lost wages due to closed businesses, transportation challenges or unforeseen expenses.
Increase Households Served
Requests for assistance increase by 86 percent in New York City as unemployment reaches double digits. A large foundation grant enables the program to increase the number of households served.
The Bridge Fund of Westchester receives 28 percent more applications for assistance than the previous year; those seeking help due to unemployment rises by 39 percent.
The Bridge Fund Serves Brooklyn
The Bridge Fund program offers client services in Brooklyn, now serving all five boroughs.
To help “bridge” the gap until senior citizens are eligible for their pensions and Social Security benefits, The New York City program implements Rent Subsidy Project for Pre-Retirement Workers which ensures seniors hold on to their rent-stabilized apartments.
NYC Mayor Recognition of The Bridge Fund
In New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg proclaims February 12th, 2004 “Bridge Fund Day” in recognition of its contributions to homelessness prevention.
Bridge Fund Day
A Proclamation is given to The Bridge Fund of Westchester declaring June 18, 2003 “Bridge Fund Day” in Westchester County.
Northeast Expansion
Replicating the New York City program, The Bridge Fund of Massachusetts begins providing services and financial assistance to the greater Boston area while a similar program launch in Bridgeport, CT.
Launches Project Recovery
The Bridge Fund hires a Project Director to launch and implement Project Recovery, a program that aids secondary victims and families of 9/11.
The Bridge Fund services expand to Queens.
The Bridge Fund of New York Inc
The Bridge Fund is incorporated as The Bridge Fund of New York Inc and designated a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The Bridge Fund of New York City
The Bridge Fund of New York City is created with the very generous support of donors and foundations. The Manhattan office opens as a program of the Hudson Guild, dedicated to serving a particularly poor area on the Lower East Side.
The Bridge Fund of Westchester
The Bridge Fund of Westchester is founded by Oscar and Nan Pollock, with encouragement from Father Peter Larom of Grace Episcopal Church in White Plains, a leading advocate for the homeless.
On January 15, 1991—at a time when there are 4,500 homeless individuals in Westchester County—The Bridge Fund opens its doors with a single employee. In its first year, it issues 132 loans and grants.