Does Bridges accept non-monetary or in-kind donations?
Yes, Bridges accepts household necessities, furniture, appliances, and school supplies. However, due to limited storage space, in-kind donations are accepted based on immediate client needs. If you would like to donate accepted items, please send us a description of your donation items and we will assess client needs at that time and let you know whether we can accept your donation. Bridges also accepts non-perishable food items and gift cards. Bridges does not accept donations of used bedding or clothing. Unused toys are only accepted during the holiday season.
Does Bridges provide housing choice vouchers?
No, Bridges does not provide housing choice vouchers. For more information regarding vouchers, contact the Howard County Housing Commission by visiting the Commission’s website or calling 410-313-6320.
Does Bridges serve Howard County residents exclusively?
- Bridges Alliance has a preference for applicants who are employed in Howard County. However, applicants do not have to be Howard County residents.
- Housing Connections serves only residents of Howard County.
- Housing Stability Program is a partner in the Howard County Coordinated Entry System, which serves only residents of Howard County.
What are the qualifications for Bridges’ programs?
Bridges Alliance Program Requirements:
- Household income is 30 to 60% of Howard County median, adjusted for household size:
- The credit score for each leaseholder is above 520.
- Criminal, credit and rental history are reviewed case by case.
- Household size is appropriate for the housing unit.
- Household is willing to participate in the program’s Circle of Support, including goal planning plus attendance at 6 or more program meetings and workshops each year.
- If accepted, the housing burden would be below 40%. (This is the percentage of gross income spent on rent and utilities.)
Housing Connections Program Requirements
- The applicant has been a resident of Howard County for at least 6 months.
- Household income is 30 to 60% of Howard County median, adjusted for household size:
- Household has a history of a high housing burden (housing cost/income).
- A landlord or housing provider agrees to partner with Bridges for the lease term.
- Household is willing to work with the program manager on a housing stability plan, and receive ongoing case management, including bi-monthly home visits.
Housing Stability Program Requirements
- Clients in the Housing Stability Programs are formally referred by the Howard County Coordinated Entry System. This program does not accept walk-ins or self-referrals.
- If you are experiencing a housing issue, are seeking shelter or temporary housing, or need help with a pending eviction, contact the Coordinated Entry System on the Grassroots Hotline at 410-531-6677. They will listen to your situation and provide you with information and resources.
What if I am facing eviction or need assistance with a security deposit?
- If you are experiencing a housing issue, are seeking shelter or temporary housing, or need help with a pending eviction, contact the Coordinated Entry System on the Grassroots Hotline at 410-531-6677. They will listen to your situation and provide you with information and resources.
- Contact the Community Action Council of Howard County at 410-313-6440.
- If you qualify for the Housing Connections Program (see guidelines above), you might be eligible for assistance with your eviction or help with a security deposit. However, Housing Connections does not provide an ongoing rental subsidy.
For more information, please contact Meagan Lohin, Program Assistant at 410-312-5760, or via email.