View From The Bridge

April 2026

Quarterly

A Pelican Landing/Colony-based charity assisting neighbors in need when there is nowhere else to turn

When the Need is There...

The Bridge Fund (TBF) responds. In the first quarter of 2026, TBF approved 160 requests to assist individuals/families, a 29% increase over last year, and totaling over $153,000 in assistance.

TBF is unique in its all-volunteer structure and the way we process requests for assisting neighbors in need.

We partner with over 115 public schools and multiple social service agencies in Lee County, Immokalee and Labelle.

Sometimes neighbors in need face immediate crises that our Partners are unable to resolve.

In that instance, our Partner submits an award request form by email to TBF.

Our Board reviews the emailed request form (usually within hours) to determine if it fits within our mission.

If approved, TBF pays the landlord, utility company, medical provider, etc. Payments are never made directly to the person in need.

Another Successful Fun Run/Walk

The 7th Annual Pelican Landing Fun Run/Walk was a tremendous success, and we are grateful to everyone who came out to support TBF. The 2026 event drew 271 participants and raised close to $35K for TBF, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for this annual event within the Pelican Landing community.

This year’s Stiger Award for the top fund-raising honors again goes to Lesley and John Hill, participants and loyal supporters of the Pelican Landing Fun Run/Walk since the first event held in 2019.

The Fun Run/Walk has generated a total of more than $166,000 to TBF, thanks to the dedication and compassion of the Fun Run organizer and director, Steve Gunther, and the Fun Run team!

Making an Impact, One Life at a Time

What a year it has been for Polo! You may remember him from our 2025 Celebration, where he bravely shared how a stroke in his mid-30’s changed the course of his life, and thanked you for helping him obtain his prosthetics.

Today, the updates from his social worker are remarkable. Polo is now working full time, although his recovery is still ongoing. He doesn't have full mobility in his left arm and leg, but is back in physical therapy through his work insurance.

Also, Polo is giving back. He and his family and friends have started a community service club in Labelle. They organized a school supply giveaway and holiday toy drive. His story shows how opportunity, support, and determination can make all the difference.

You didn’t just fund assistance. You changed a life.

Partner Profile: Café of Life

In 2013, the Café of Life submitted the very first request for assistance to the TBF. The Board approved, making a rent payment and saving a family from eviction.

The Café’s mission is "to provide basic human needs to the very poor and hungry people of the Bonita Springs area in a manner that preserves the dignity of the client." More than a "café" that provides weekday hot meals, staff and volunteers prepare healthy snacks for pre-schoolers, deliver fresh produce and dairy to homebound seniors, and bring basic food staples to migrant camps residents, all with support from TBF.

In addition, the Café sponsors adult and children’s programs such as sewing, gardening, English language and other women’s life skill classes; children’s music lessons and summer activities; and other services that “nourish, empower, and create lasting change.”

"Partnership with TBF has enabled us to make a real positive difference….When a client’s request exceeds [our direct assistance] limit, TBF is our “go to” partner. TBF has also funded new services at the Café, allowing us to better support the needs of those facing serious nutritional insecurity challenges." Cafe of Life staffer

Michele’s Story: A Safe Home Now

The stories of families seeking safety, food and shelter continue to reach TBF. Some are forced into crisis by employment disruption, relationship breakdowns, medical issues, lack of transportation, etc., and need a bridge to stability. Michelle was one of them.

She and her two young sons fled her abuser. They spent the next three months homeless, doing everything they could to stay safe. When Michelle found both a job and an apartment, she needed help with the up front move‑in costs. A Partner reached out on her behalf.

“Because of your kindness with move‑in costs, we are no longer homeless. My boys have a place where they can sleep peacefully, play freely, and feel safe. Because of you, I can stand on solid ground as I continue rebuilding our lives.”

You make it possible: safety, dignity, and a fresh start for our neighbors who need it most.

The Bridge Fund

A Pelican Landing/Colony-based 501(c)(3) charity

assisting neighbors in need

Board Members: Mike Beebe, President; Beverly Haas, Vice President; Jim Herald, Vice President; Ann Soper, Secretary and Treasurer; Ron Bloom, Caroline Crew, Aileen Kevane, Sandy Mellinger, Bob Taylor, and Jay Trucks

https://www.thebridge-fund.org