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Our Commitment
Since our inception in 1986, Bridge House has provided a transformative and safe community for persons living with serious mental illness (SMI). We are accredited by Clubhouse International and practice under a psychosocial model of rehabilitation.
The opening of our new facility in Stratford demonstrates our ongoing dedication to supporting our members. By implementing key community integration initiatives in both programming and resource development. Our objective is to provide members with the essential tools required to effectively meet future challenges, thus supporting their ability to lead more independent and meaningful lives.
Why Bridge House Matters
Bridge House plays an integral role in supporting individuals living with SMI. It serves as a vital source to address their challenges related to social isolation, housing, and employment. By providing structured workdays, peer and staff support, and access to our resource center, Bridge House cultivates a collaborative community dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, expanding opportunities, and promoting long-term well-being.
“Becoming one of the leading sales associates at Macy’s Department Store was made possible through the support and guidance of Bridge House, which helped strengthen my confidence, communication skills, and commitment to excellence in customer service.”
-Daniel
Addressing Our Growing Needs
In central and lower Fairfield County, few community nonprofits exist for people living with SMI, especially for young adults. Our current facility did not meet the needs of the members. Its location, aging infrastructure, limited accessibility, and restricted space have limited program development, service expansion, new opportunities, and outreach.
In October 2024, Bridge House purchased a three-story building in Stratford to replace our current facility. The building features an elevator for better accessibility, a location with direct access to a bus line, more square footage and ample parking for staff and members.
The Path Forward: Renovations and Funding
Although the Stratford building offers significant enhancements in space, accessibility, and location for Bridge House, it did need comprehensive renovations and upgrades to optimize the facility’s capacity to serve our members effectively.
Renovation Costs and Capital Campaign
The estimated renovation costs are projected to be $850,000, which also represented the final cost upon completion. This figure was established as the target when we launched our Capital Campaign in 2025. It included all structural renovations plus kitchen appliances plus new commercial kitchen appliances, select furnishings, computer equipment, software upgrades, and other technical enhancements.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has already contributed to our Capital Campaign. Their support reflects s shared recognition of the urgent need for accessible and improved mental health services in our community.
Planned Upgrades and Features
Upon completion of renovations, the new Bridge House will feature:
Upgraded IT, phone, and security systems
Computer Lab
Reception Area
Food Bank
Membership Services
Tech-Enhanced Resource/Information Centers
Professional Commercial Kitchen
Wellness Center
Large Meeting / Dining area
Smaller Meeting Rooms for group
and individual use
Outdoor space for gardening
and socializing
Community Support and Opportunities for Giving
Bridge House is certain that others in the community will also see the value of our new facility and the positive difference it makes in the lives of individuals living with SMI. the capital Campaign is still underway, with 150,000 to raise. This new facility is vital for the individuals we support and their families, marking the start of a new era - But we need your help.
We ask you to act now and help us complete the campaign. Your investment is essential to meeting today's needs and ensuring we can continue serving our community for years to come.
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Your contribution can be made as a one-time gift or pledged over three years. If interested in a pledge over time, please click here for details.
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Donations may be made by check, credit card, DAF, IRAs, stocks, and/or Employer Matching Gift Programs.
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Naming Opportunities are available; please refer to the attached document for details.
George Ruderman’s three sons and daughter in-law made a 3-year pledge in Honor of their parents, George and Lisbeth Ruderman.
Tom, George’s son, along with Executive Director, Mary Ellen McGuire presented Mr. Ruderman with a replication of the plaque that will hangout side of the new Membership Services Room.
JOIN US TODAY TO BUILD A BETTER TOMORROW
For People Living with Serious Mental Illness
For more information, please contact Mary Ellen McGuire at 203-335-5339 or mmcguire@bridgehousect.org