The enormity of poverty-related issues in the communities Bridgeport Rescue Mission serves has forced our budget to nearly double in just four years to almost $2 million. Our 2010 Restore Hope Campaign goal to raise $1 million reflects the gravity and rapid growth of need right here in Fairfield County. Here are the facts:

• Over 26 percent of people in Bridgeport live below the poverty line—that’s why we provide almost 50,000 meals every month to homeless and working-poor families.
• We shelter 110 homeless men and women at our three campuses every night.
• This year, 25 men and women will complete our New Life Discipleship addiction-recovery program, which has been operating at full capacity for the past 18 months.

The need for financial support from our individual, church and corporate partners is greater than ever before. We understand the economy affects everyone. That’s why we humbly ask that those who can give above and beyond what they might usually give at this time of year will find it in their hearts to do so.

You can make your gift online, or contact Linda Casey at LMCasey@BridgeportRescueMission.org or (203) 333-4087, ext. 110, for more ways you can be involved.