2024 Year in Review: The Bridge Community Hope Center

The Bridge Community Hope Center in Birch Bay is comprised of three ministries: the food bank, the clothing boutique and the Grace Core Chaplaincy. Each operates under the 501c3 of the Bridge Community Hope Center, in existence since 2014, and is completely dependent upon the support and donations of the local community.

This year, the Bridge Food Bank has served the community of Birch Bay in giving out food to approximately 250-350 people every Friday, an average of 50-75 families per week. This year alone, the Bridge Food Bank has given out over 100,000 pounds of food. The Bridge Food Bank works with Miracle Food Network, Christ the King organic farm, the Lighthouse Mission, Community Assistance Program, the Blaine Food Bank, The Market at Birch Bay and local people donating.

The boutique has served the community by providing quality, gently used clothing for people of all ages and in all seasons of the year. The boutique offers its clothing at very affordable prices and has monthly sales that coincide with local events and seasons. The boutique also offers a voucher system for those in great need, obtained through the Grace Core Chaplaincy. This year, approximately 1,200 pounds of free clothing has been given out.

The Grace Core chaplains have increased to 15 trained and certified members who operate within Whatcom County, helping people who are experiencing loss, trauma, addiction, mental health issues, domestic violence, suicide, homelessness and more.

The Grace Core chaplains also help connecting people with other services.

Some highlights this year have been the increased presence and impact in Birch Bay through the renovating of the interior and painting of the outside of the Bridge building at 7620 Birch Bay Drive, the fundraiser for a new industrial fridge, and a successful ladies tea fundraiser held at the Christian Way Community Church in September.

Our goals for 2025 are to increase our volunteers and have the boutique open more hours. As the community of Birch Bay grows, the needs increase and so will the Bridge’s services. Join us in people helping people. To volunteer or sign up for food, go to thebridgehope.com.