Bridge the Gap Fund supports our neighbors in crisis
When systems fall short, this fund steps in.
Elizabeth (not her real name) is a single mom in Athens County who was couch surfing with her son for more than eight months. Unable to come up with nearly $2,000 for a first month’s rent and deposit for her own place, she reached out to a local social service agency for help. That agency was able to access money for these costs from the Bridge the Gap Fund, a flexible emergency fund held by the Athens County Foundation that helps cover basic needs not otherwise supported by existing funding sources.
“The help I received literally put a roof over our heads,” Elizabeth says. The assistance she received is a grant, ensuring that she will not have the additional worry about paying the money back.
“This exemplifies the reason Bridge the Gap Fund was created,” says Kerry Pigman, executive director of the Athens County Foundation, which houses the fund. “Sometimes our neighbors face a crisis situation, and existing programs can’t quickly fill the gap. Bridge the Gap does literally just that – it bridges a financial gap that can be the difference between stability and crisis.”
Since its inception in May, the fund has given nearly $25,000 to 19 individuals or families. This quick, responsive infusion of funds has:
- Kept the utilities on
- Gotten people into stable housing by paying a security deposit or rent
- Made a car payment so someone could get to their new job
ACF does not distribute the funds directly; the foundation works with local service providers who know our community, understand the systems in place, and can ensure help goes where it’s truly needed. These partners guide individuals to every available resource – and when nothing else can meet the need, Bridge the Gap steps in.
“Life can be hard, and sometimes we all need a little help to get where we’re going. Fortunately, we live in a place where people want to lend a hand and lift each other up.”
— Founding donors, Bridge the Gap Fund
We see the strengths of Athens County. One of those strengths is that we show up for each other. Through Bridge the Gap, your generosity becomes part of a trust-based, community-based safety net. Let’s make sure everyone in Athens County has what they need – not just to survive, but to move forward with dignity.
PS - If you or someone you know is in crisis,
reach out to one the many governmental and nonprofit organizations in our community that can help. They will be able to provide guidance on resources available, including Bridge the Gap Fund.
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