Coronavirus Can’t Stop Nonprofit’s Homeless Outreach In Newark

NEWARK, NJ — Staff at Bridges Outreach used to have a dedicated team of volunteers who helped the nonprofit put together thousands of meals and toiletry kits for homeless people in North Jersey.

But the new coronavirus changed all that – and more.

The nonprofit usually provides food, clothing and other necessities to its clients in NYC, Newark, Summit and Irvington, leveraging a network of more than 2,000 volunteers to make it all happen. But due to the rise of COVID-19, Bridges Outreach has been forced to adapt, suspending its robust volunteer program and garbing its remaining staff in face masks and gloves.

It’s necessary work to help flatten the curve of the virus, the nonprofit says, mainly because of a simple fact: you can’t self-isolate when you have nowhere to go.

Despite the shortage of people power, there are “zero plans to cease operations,” the group pledged last week. Instead, it kicked off a new partnership with the City of Newark’s health department, helping to ensure that homeless people will find a friendly face and guiding hand during the coronavirus crisis.

People who want to give a much-appreciated boost to Bridges Outreach can make a financial donation, or check out their Amazon Wish list.

• See related article: See Life Through The Lens Of Homeless NJ Photographers

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