Contact: Ashlee Amparan (617) 333-3333 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 7, 2013 Boston non-profit Bridge Over Troubled Waters begins construction of new shelter BOSTON, MA–– Bridge Over Troubled Waters has decided to expand its growing program by building an additional shelter in the Brighton area. With its unwavering success as a safe haven for at-risk youths since 1970, Bridge has outgrown the building located next to the Commons. The construction of a new shelter is essential to the continuance of providing housing, food, education, and medical care. The task for governmental funding was not an easy one. According to Elizabeth Ortiz, the executive director of the nonprofit organization, Bridge’s grant proposal for expansion was denied three times. “With the economy being in its current state, the non-profit sectors in charge of funding in Massachusetts could not approve it,” stated Ortiz. “It is unfortunate circumstances, but the non-profit sector has agreed to work with us in order to make this happen.” The grant proposal was recently approved last week. It is important that Bridge continues to provide for those who are less fortunate. Malcolm Reed, a Bridge client, was interviewed and was asked to comment on his experience with the program. He stated:
“If I didn’t have Bridge, I would be couch surfing or sleeping outside. I like the people at the Bridge Shelter. Everyone knows who I am.” Malcolm is not the only Bridge client who feels this way. Bridge has helped thousands of at-risk youths ages 14-24. It is no surprise that one shelter is not sufficient for this dynamic organization. With the help of private donors and the recent grant approval, Bridge will begin construction of the Brighton shelter in Summer 2014. The new addition of the shelter will help with providing better quality services to Bridge clients. For more information on Bridge Over Troubled Waters and the construction of the Brighton shelter, please visit www.bridgeotw.org