Our story, our mission, our heart
Learn about the Bridging the Gap Project, our journey, and our commitment to supporting families in Northern Michigan. We are here to bridge the gap between hardship and hope.
Our inspiration and impact
The Bridging the Gap Project was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when we saw families in our community struggling with food insecurity. What began as Stiggs Feed A Friend serving weekly meals evolved after Northern Michigan's historic ice storm, when we helped 1,643 individuals, families, and shelters in just 43 days. That experience showed us our community needed more than food—they needed resources, emergency support, and someone to turn to during difficult times. Today, our mission is simple: to bridge the gap between hardship and hope by providing food, essential resources, and compassionate support when families need it most.
Our values: compassion, dignity, community
At the Bridging the Gap Project, everything we do is guided by three core values: compassion, dignity, and community. We believe every person deserves to be treated with respect, without judgment, and that asking for help should never come with shame. We are committed to meeting people where they are, protecting their privacy, and providing support that restores hope not just for today, but for the future. Above all, we believe that when a community comes together, no one has to face hardship alone.
Our vision for a stronger community
Our vision is to ensure that no family in Charlevoix, Antrim, or Emmet County ever has to wonder where their next meal will come from or where to turn during a crisis. We want to continue expanding our programs, strengthening community partnerships, and responding to needs before they become emergencies. Our goal is to become a trusted resource where families can find not only food, but hope, dignity, and the support they need to move forward. Ultimately, we hope to build a stronger community where no one falls through the cracks because together, we're bridging the gap.