Bridge of Mercy
Bridge of Mercy Pantry Seeks New Home to Feed the Community
Bridge of Mercy, a Verde Valley nonprofit food pantry, is set to vacate its current location at Hope Community Church in Cottonwood by the end of January. The organization is actively seeking a new space to continue its vital services.
CEO Stacey Hayden emphasized the need for a different facility. “We require a space that is either donated or available for rent at a nominal fee,” she stated. She noted that such arrangements often qualify as tax write-offs for property owners. Without a new location, the organization risks having to cease operations or transition to a different service model.
Since opening in October 2021, Bridge of Mercy has been serving the community on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. In November alone, they assisted 1,200 individuals from the Verde Valley, providing essential food, clothing, hygiene products, and holiday toys for families in need.
In addition to food distribution, Bridge of Mercy recently initiated a housing project for widows and low-income seniors in Rimrock, launching seven homes in March 2023.
“Although we could use the housing project for storage, it’s not feasible for distribution,” Hayden explained, highlighting the limitations posed by the current living conditions there. The nonprofit employs a shopping model where clients can choose food items that best suit their needs.
Hayden made an appeal to the community for assistance. “The work we do is important, and we treat people like neighbors rather than as recipients of charity,” she asserted.
For more information or to offer support, Bridge of Mercy can be contacted at (928) 239-1661 or through their website at bridgeofmercy.org.