FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Who Volunteers?
Our volunteers are people who care and want to make a difference in the life of a homeless friend and in their own life. They include individuals, groups formed through schools, houses of worship, businesses and friends and families, schools, girl scout and boy scout troops, corporations and local businesses. Contact us to learn more.

What is a Volunteer Group?
It is a group formed through schools, houses of worship, businesses and friends and families who commit to going on a BRIDGES RUN. Some groups go out once a year, other several times a year. The group prepares bagged lunches and collects clothing, toiletries, and other essentials. Several members of the group then partner with BRIDGES on a RUN to distribute the items with fellowship, compassion and respect.

What is a "RUN"?
A "RUN" is the outreach visit to our street friends where we distribute bagged lunches, new and gently used clothing, toiletries and other necessities. Equally important, it is an opportunity for volunteers from housed communities to meet friends living on the street and in shelters and to share time, fellowship and smiles.

How do I sign up for a RUN?
Check the schedule for available dates. Sign-up for a BRIDGES RUN.

What is the atmosphere on a RUN?
Since the first RUN in 1988, BRIDGES has worked hard to establish an atmosphere of respect on the RUNs. This respect among all RUN participants has historically yielded a friendly environment. Additionally, a BRIDGES RUN Coordinator accompanies each street RUN and has a working relationship with all our homeless friends. The RUN Coordinator works with the adult volunteers participating to monitor the RUN. Cooperation and a spirit of gratitude prevail.

What is the minimum age for a child to participate on a RUN?
BRIDGES has no "cut-off" policy on age. Though flexible, we feel the RUNs are appropriate for those 14 years old older. We suggest a ratio of one adult to every five teens. Parents or chaperones are responsible for minors on a RUN.

May I take pictures on the RUN?
Out of respect for our homeless friends, photography is not allowed.

How can I get in touch with someone on a RUN?
The RUN Coordinator carries a cell phone on each RUN. In addition, all adults and children are asked to carry cell phones when available, and phone numbers are exchanged prior to each RUN.

What do we do if the weather is really bad?
BRIDGES completes the RUN in inclement weather. In the case of hazardous conditions, contact the office.

May I cancel a RUN?
RUNs are scheduled in advance and almost never cancelled. Our homeless friends depend on our visits in all kinds of weather and circumstances. Keep in mind, we have never missed a Friday evening RUN to Manhattan. Once a commitment to go on a RUN is made, we request that you honor that commitment.

Can I go on a RUN to make up hours for my community service at school?
BRIDGES welcomes students fulfilling community service hours and will give written notice of volunteer service to the student or the school. However, it is the decision of individual schools to accept these community service hours or not.

What can my group do without going on a RUN?
There are many volunteer opportunities to get involved without actually going on a RUN.

How can young children and their parents help BRIDGES?
BRIDGES is delighted to have the help of young children and families. Young school children can decorate lunch bags and prepare the lunches to fill them. Our homeless friends appreciate notes and messages written by youngsters. Young children, with the help of their parents, can also conduct clothing, toiletry or fundraising/penny drives. Contact us for creative ways to become involved.

What role does BRIDGES play in addressing the issue of homelessness?
BRIDGES believes that the simple act of participating in the program, whether as a RUN participant, a soup maker, or even as a child decorating a lunch bag with a message, is a step toward building awareness of homelessness and the real problems our poorest neighbors face. Going on a RUN is an immediate way to connect homelessness with humanness, and to share a very meaningful experience.

How can I learn more about advocating for the homeless?
BRIDGES works with many organizations that advocate for the homeless. Start by visiting our homeless news and resources.

Can a representative from BRIDGES come to my school or organization to talk about the program?
Members of BRIDGES' Staff and Board of Trustees frequently visit schools, houses of worship and other organizational venues to discuss the program. Topics covered range from the state of homelessness locally and beyond to the basics of our operation and how to become a volunteer. Talks will be tailored to your target audience. Contact us to request a speaker.

What type of organization is BRIDGES?
BRIDGES is a New Jersey non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. It is non-denominational.

Where does BRIDGES get its funding?
BRIDGES is funded through foundation grants, private donors and fundraisers. BRIDGES does not solicit or receive any federal or state funding.

Does BRIDGES have a religious affiliation?
No. BRIDGES is headquartered at Christ Church in Summit, NJ, but does not belong to any religious group or have any political affiliations. BRIDGES welcomes people of all races, religions and creeds to participate. Bridges respects all religious beliefs, but volunteers may not proselytize.