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Happy New Year! A time of new beginnings, hopes, and dreams! Many of us make New Year's resolutions as we look forward to what "could be" in the new year. As you may know, only about eight percent of people keep their resolutions. Why is this? Could it be that we are trying to do this on our own? Our Bridge of Hope moms are no different – they also set resolutions each year. Moms like Melissa (featured above) have made mistakes and desire a better life and a path out of homelessness for themselves and their children.
Thankfully, when moms set goals in the Bridge of Hope program, they do not have to do it on their own. As a result, they have a much higher success rate for achieving them. While the most common resolution for Americans is to lose weight, the Bridge of Hope moms set goals like getting a higher-paying job, applying for certifications or college, paying off debt, or consistently paying rent on time. Much of their success results from strong relationships with their incredible Case Managers. Bridge of Hope Case Managers meet weekly with the families; they review their financial situation and help them set budgets and employment goals to increase their income. They continue to meet with the families throughout their entire time in the program and revisit these goals frequently. They encourage the moms to consider the next steps for success, offer resources and help them problem-solve. These are just a few ways our Case Managers aid these Bridge of Hope moms and families to remain accountable to their goals.
As a result, Bridge of Hope participants have a very high success rate; 89% of the participants in 2022 graduated to self-sufficiency, and 84% of those who have gone through our program since we began in 2014 are still self-sufficient.
Resolutions can be a challenge. Yet, with support, it can be done. Through the Bridge of Hope program, moms are finding that support as they strive to reach their goals and create a new life for themselves and their children.
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