What children are eligible to be sponsored?
Unfortunately we cannot help everyone. For that reason we have to limit eligibility to those children between the ages of 13-19, that can or have demonstrated a significant financial need.
At a Bridge for Kids our focus is ensuring every teen has the ability to pursue his or her dreams no matter their financial situation. We are unique in our mission in San Diego.
Click on Video for more information about how our sponsorship program has impacted the lives of teenagers in our community.
How are the teens selected for sponsorship?
It all starts with someone like you identifying a child in need. After a child is identified you can fill out an “Application for Sponsorship” and return it to A Bridge for Kids at the address on the form. We continuously review applications. If we believe a child qualifies for our program an interview is conducted. If he or she is accepted into the sponsorship program they are asked to sign The Pledge along with their advocate. At that point we will attempt to match that child with the most appropriate donor.
Will I get updates on how my child is doing?
Sponsors should expect updates throughout the year from either the child or their advocate. Laws restricting communication with children in the foster care system might, in some cases, prohibit direct contact but we will ensure you are kept abreast of your child’s progress.
How long will my sponsorship last?
That is all up to you. Sponsorship is a voluntary, ongoing contribution. You will be alerted when your sponsorship period is ending and at that time you can either renew your sponsorship for an additional period of time, you can ask to sponsor another child or you can simply cancel your current sponsorship.
Do all the sponsorships allow me to be matched with a specific child?
If you select a full or half year sponsorship then yes, you will be matched with a specific teen in need if you so choose.
If you make a contribution to our Unsponsored Child Fund those dollars will be pooled and distributed to as many teens in need as we can help.
In both cases we will include you on our newsletter to keep you up to date with everything the organization is accomplishing.
Is sponsorship the only way teens are helped?
We offer our sponsored teens, free of charge, other programs that help them reach their potential and achieve their dreams. These programs, offering college campus tours, tutoring, and SAT/ACT Preparatory Programs, have been developed to help “level the playing field” as teens prepare for the college application process. See Video for more information.
Can I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Absolutely. A Bridge for Kids is a 501(c)(3) organization and will issue a cumulative tax receipt for all monthly child sponsorship payments along with other donations you make. The summary of this receipt will be mailed by January 31st for the previous year’s contribution.
Who is the typical child in your program?
While it is difficult to generalize, a significant portion of the children we sponsor have had a very tough start in life either coming from a broken home or in the Foster Care system.
Who runs the charity?
As is the case with all charities, A Bridge for Kids is run by a Board of Directors. However, unlike some other 501(c) (3) organizations we rely solely on the generosity of people like you to fund our programs.
What can I do to help the charity?
- Sponsor a child
- Volunteer… Call us today! 858-212-3150
- Donate
- Recommend a teen for sponsorship – BridgeForKids-Application
- Request additional information- Email us at info@abridgeforkids.org