Community and Equity – Goals With a Plan
Since the pandemic began, grocery prices have surged by 25%, placing an enormous burden on local families already stretched thin. More than one in four of our neighbors is now forced to skip meals or sacrifice other essentials like rent, gas, utilities, clothing, and childcare just to afford groceries. These difficult decisions have far-reaching effects that ripple through entire households, especially those with multigenerational families. Children may start school hungry and unprepared, grandparents may miss out on the care they need, and stress can strain family relationships. It is precisely during these challenging times that the work of Community Bridges becomes a lifeline.
For nearly 50 years, we have been a steadfast source of support and hope in Santa Cruz County and beyond. Established in 1977, this nonprofit organization has been a catalyst for positive change, delivering essential resources that empower local residents across the age spectrum—from infants to seniors—to ensure their basic needs are met through collective community support. In the past year alone, our 10 diverse programs have reached over 20,000 individuals, offering education, nutrition, counseling, enrichment, healthcare, and transportation services. And the best part? Many of these services are provided at no cost to those who qualify.
A Network of Support: Programs Serving All Ages
The strength of Community Bridges lies in the interconnectedness of our programs. Each one addresses a different aspect of community well-being, but together, they create a safety net that supports thousands of people year-round.
Community Bridges offers an interconnected suite of programs that address essential needs across the age spectrum:
- Child & Adult Care Food Program provides nutritious meals by reimbursing food costs for licensed caregivers, benefiting children and adults.
- Early Education Division offers affordable, nurturing early education in six centers across the county, building a strong foundation for children’s future success.
- Women, Infants & Children (WIC) program supports families with nutritional guidance, grocery assistance, and preventive care to ensure healthy growth.
- Family Resource Collective includes four resource centers—La Manzana, Live Oak, Mountain, and Nueva Vista—which offer crisis support, counseling, and educational resources to families in need.
- Elderday Adult Day Health Care empowers seniors to live independently through healthcare services, social engagement, and respite for caregivers.
- Lift Line provides accessible, door-to-door transportation for seniors and people with disabilities, enabling them to stay active and connected.
- Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals and social connection to seniors at home or at dining sites across the county, supporting their well-being.
Through these diverse programs, Community Bridges creates a supportive network that uplifts individuals and families at every stage of life.
Our Impact: A Year of Unwavering Support
The past year has been a testament to the resilience of our community and the effectiveness of Community Bridges’ programs. Our impact numbers tell the story of thousands of lives touched and strengthened:
- 39,500 days of free or low-cost eldercare and childcare, providing safe, nurturing environments for children and supportive care for seniors.
- 88,111 free bags of healthy food, ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals and can focus on other essential needs.
- 178,815 meals to seniors’ homes and 28,206 meals at dining sites across the county, ensuring the most vulnerable residents in our community remain fed.
- 1,770 hours of no-cost youth activities, giving children and teens the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment.
- 6,554 hours of no-cost crisis assistance and counseling, helping families navigate unexpected challenges and stabilize their lives.
- Access to more than $500,000 in state and federal tax credits, allowing families to maximize their financial resources and gain greater economic security.
In addition to these achievements, Community Bridges has stepped up in times of extraordinary crisis. In 2020, Community Bridges led the way in supporting families faced with the loss of housing and employment. In 2023, when severe storms and floods devastated parts of both the Pajaro Valley and San Lorenzo Valley, our organization acted quickly, providing more than $2 million in direct assistance to families affected by these natural disasters. This funding has been essential for helping families rebuild their lives, secure housing, and recover from the physical and emotional toll of the storms. In addition, we continue to host emergency preparedness courses and workshops to help families be prepared for future disasters and emergencies.
How You Can Help This Giving Season
The holiday season is a time for reflection and generosity, and there are numerous ways you can support Community Bridges in its mission to create a stronger, healthier community. Whether through financial gifts, volunteerism, or even joining our leadership, your contribution will have a direct impact on the lives of your neighbors.
1. Make a One-Time Donation
Your one-time, tax-deductible gift can go a long way in helping us meet the immediate needs of those we serve. Visit communitybridges.org/donate to contribute today.
2. Become a Sustaining Donor
Donate each month to the program of your choice to sustain and help expand their reach and services. Visit communitybridges.org/donate and select “Monthly” in the donation form.
3. Matching Gifts
Many companies offer matching gift programs that can double or even triple your impact. Check with your employer to see if they participate in a matching gift program and visit communitybridges.org/donate-other for more information.
4. Vehicle Donations
If you’re considering upgrading your car, consider donating your vehicle to Community Bridges. You’ll receive a tax-deductible receipt, and we’ll arrange a pickup within 72 hours. Visit CarEasy.org or call 855-500-RIDE (7433) to get started.
5. Gifts of Stock
Donating stock can turn a potential tax liability into an asset that supports the community. For more information on arranging a stock transfer, contact us at donations@cbridges.org or 831-688-8840 ext. 205.
6. Planned Giving
Ensure your legacy by including Community Bridges in your will or living trust. This type of planned giving allows you to continue supporting the community for generations to come. Options include naming Community Bridges as a beneficiary of your retirement plan or insurance policy or setting up charitable remainder trusts and annuities. Learn more at communitybridges.org/legacy.
Make a Lasting Difference
Supporting Community Bridges means helping children start their school days well-nourished and ready to learn, ensuring seniors receive the care and companionship they deserve, and empowering families to overcome crises with dignity. Your support this holiday season is vital. Help us continue to be a lifeline for the people of Santa Cruz County. Whether you give your time, money, or expertise, your contributions will create real, lasting change in the lives of thousands.
