Bridges to Housing Stability
Affordable housing solutions preventing homelessness in Howard County.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| investor | €0.0 | round | |
* | $80.0k | Grant | |
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
Bridges to Housing Stability is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Howard County, Maryland. Established in 1991, and formerly known as Congregations Concerned for the Homeless, the organization provides a path to self-sufficiency through affordable housing solutions and advocacy. The entity operates on the principle that stable housing is fundamental to a household's overall stability and success.
The organization's business model is centered on providing direct housing assistance and supportive services to low-income households that are homeless, at imminent risk of eviction, or facing housing instability. Its funding comes from a combination of federal and county grants, corporate sponsorships, private foundation grants, and individual donations. Bridges to Housing Stability serves Howard County residents, particularly families and individuals who are homeless or at risk, those with poor credit or rental histories, and low-wage workers. Clients are typically referred through the Howard County Coordinated Entry System.
The core services are delivered through several key programs. The Housing Stability Program offers case management, landlord mediation, and financial assistance to prevent evictions and rehouse homeless individuals and families. The Bridges Alliance program acquires and manages affordable, below-market rental homes for low-income working households, supplemented by a "Circle of Support" that provides financial literacy and goal-planning education. The Housing Connections program fosters partnerships with private landlords to lower housing barriers for clients. A newer initiative, the Family Home Start program launched in February 2024, specifically assists homeless families with children in the Howard County Public School System by providing funds for security deposits and first month's rent.
Keywords: homelessness prevention, affordable housing, housing stability, low-income households, Howard County, eviction prevention, rehousing services, supportive housing, case management, landlord partnership, self-sufficiency programs, below-market rentals, financial literacy, community support, housing advocacy, rental assistance, permanent supportive housing, nonprofit, social services, housing solutions