WillowBridge Transitional Housing
LARC (Linking to Attain Responsibility and Community) was established in 2015. This initiative mobilizes, equips and inspires the community to connect with unsupported youth. WillowBridge Transitional Housing is designed to help these youth transition from Gateway Woods to full independence.
"1 in 5 foster youth will become instantly homeless at age 18." SharedJustice.org
50% of youth in foster care will be unemployed at the age of 24. Less than 3% of foster youth graduate from a 4 year college. A female foster youth is more likely to be sexually assaulted than to enroll in college. WillowBridge will give LARC kids, once they leave Gateway a safe place where they can live and grow.
If you would like more information about volunteering or giving towards WillowBridge, please fill out the form below.
Meeting the Need
WillowBridge serves at-risk youth ages 18-25.
Spiritual Growth
Youth will receive active discipleship and participate in regular Bible Studies. Continued connection with local churches and spiritual mentors.
Safety
WillowBridge will provide safety through adult oversight and accountability in a secure living environment.
Community
LARC will provide continued connections with the youth. Fostering community environment within WillowBridge.
Personal Growth
Onsite counseling, education, independent living, and vocational training will all be available for the youth living in WillowBridge.
Testimonials
WillowBridge Staff
Ryan & Bekah Shaffer
WillowBridge Community Advocates
Sean & Sarah Ryan
WillowBridge Community Advocate Support
1st Floor Overview
The 1st floor of WillowBridge will include: Community Room with Full Kitchen, Advocate Family Apartment, and a Studio Apartment for Single Mom.
2nd Floor Overview
The 2nd floor of WillowBridge will include: (4) Two Bedroom Apartments, Up to 4 Males and 4 Females in separate wings.
Send us a message.
Ways to Help
PRAY
This is a very practical way to support the WillowBridge staff and youth we work with. We truly appreciate your prayers for this outreach as the impact continues to grow and expand. Please pray for wisdom for our staff and mentors who are coming along side to support these youth. Pray for the youth we work with as transition and life can be challenging to navigate.
GIVE
The cost to purchase and re-purpose the WillowBridge Transitional Housing building is estimated at $925,000. There will also be ongoing program expenses of approximately $250,000 annually. Please prayerfully consider financially supporting this initiative.
VOLUNTEER
There will be opportunities to volunteer with the renovation of the building (Spring 2019). please fill out the form above if you are interested in helping.