Rising Homelessness in Our Community

A Letter from Jodi

It saddens me to share that many in our community are at risk of homelessness, and the rate at which people in our community are losing their homes is growing by the day.

The rising cost of living is outpacing wages, leaving many of our neighbors struggling to make rent. The sight of individuals and families sleeping in their cars or seeking refuge outside buildings and public spaces is becoming increasingly common. The hard truth is that homelessness is on the rise, and without intervention, more people will be left out in the cold as winter approaches.

At The Bridge Home, we are doing everything possible to prevent this, but we can’t do it alone. We need your help to make a difference!

Our resources are stretched thin as we work tirelessly to provide shelter, warmth, and hope to those in need. The national housing crisis, which can be felt in our own backyard, is driven by a severe lack of affordable options and is forcing more people into homelessness. Unfortunately, our emergency shelter is consistently at total capacity, and it hurts my heart that we are left with no option but to turn individuals and families away.

As we prepare for the colder months, your ongoing support is critical for us to continue providing life-saving services to those who need it most. Your donation will help us keep as many people as possible housed, providing them with the stability they need to rebuild their lives.

Thank you for standing with us as we weather the storm ahead and for your unwavering support of our tireless efforts to break the cycle of homelessness in our community.

With my sincere gratitude,
Jodi Stumbo
President & CEO

A Pursuit of Happiness

For 22 years, Jason was homeless. He moved from place to place, struggling with his past and grappling with the pain of isolation. But today, Jason has something he hasn’t had in decades — a home of his own and a renewed sense of purpose.

Jason was born in Denver, but his journey took him through Wyoming, where he graduated from high school, and finally to Ames, where he has lived for over twenty years. “I’ve always been unhoused,” Jason says, recalling the moment he was kicked out of home at age 13. Determined to finish his education, Jason pushed himself to graduate high school, even attending summer school for two years to make it happen.

After a marriage breakdown early in life, combined with personal struggles, Jason found himself down a dark path. “I lost everything, and my family disowned me.”

The streets had become Jason’s harsh reality, which left him with physical and emotional scars. He watched friends die, attempted suicide, and suffered a stroke and three heart attacks. For years, Jason faced brutal conditions: relentless rain, ruined and stolen belongings, freezing nights with nowhere to sleep, and the constant struggle to find a place to charge his phone so he could keep in contact with his children.

“It took me 22 years here in Ames to finally realize that I needed to get back on my feet and become a part of society again.”

It wasn’t until two years ago that Jason began to see a way out. He connected with The Bridge Home and was able to find housing and start rebuilding his life. “The Bridge Home has helped me quite a bit over the past two years. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them. My case manager, Maggie, has
been an angel of mercy for me.”

Today, Jason is not only housed but also an advocate for others experiencing homelessness. He is passionate about educating the public and breaking down the stereotypes surrounding those living on the streets. “People think that we’re all thieves or drug addicts, but the homeless need to be treated just as fairly as the rest of the community.”

“I was never taught how to live and keep a job. I never met anyone who would give me a chance or believe in me to do better.”

Jason’s journey toward rebuilding his life is ongoing, but with a home of his own, he’s found a sense of belonging that he never had before. For him, having a place to call home is more than just shelter; it’s a sanctuary where he can enjoy simple acts like taking a shower, charging his phone, or having a BBQ in his own backyard.

After a life of isolation, Jason now feels at peace. “I just want to be happy like everybody else. Being homeless is both the worst feeling and the worst place you could ever be. Homelessness is hell. Having a home is heaven.”

As he continues to better himself, Jason is focused on being a voice for the vulnerable and helping others in the same position he was to find a pathway to stability and hope. “Everybody deserves a place.”

If you or someone you know might benefit from our services, call us at 515-232-8075. Whether it’s help with emergency shelter or housing assistance, we can help or connect you to the support you or your loved one needs.

Honoring Shirley Wood’s Legacy

The Bridge Home Student Assistance Fund

We are deeply grateful to Shirley Wood for her generous endowment that established The Bridge Home Student Assistance Fund. Shirley’s legacy of compassion continues to touch the lives of many in our community, providing vital support for students from preschool through high school.

This fund, created by Shirley, is dedicated to helping children from lower-income families access essential resources needed for their success, from school supplies and tutoring to medical care and participation in extracurricular activities.

Shirley’s life was marked by kindness, a passion for education, and a commitment to helping others. Her contribution to The Bridge Home is a testament to her enduring belief in the power of education and community support.

We invite you to join us in honoring Shirley’s legacy by contributing to The Bridge Home Student Assistance Fund, ensuring her spirit of generosity lives on in the lives of those who need it most.
Shirley’s commitment to education and her belief in the potential of every student continues to inspire us.