Riedel Foundation awards $10,000 grant to Faith Bridge, which helps kids leaving foster care

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Riedel Foundation of Hannibal recently awarded a $10,000 grant to Faith Bridge, a non-profit organization that helps foster children in Hannibal and the surrounding area. This grant will specifically fund the Carry On Program, an initiative that provides vital resources to former foster youth, helping them transition successfully into independent living.

Faith Bridge established the Carry On Program in Mid-Missouri in 2021 and expanded it to Hannibal in 2022. The goal of Carry On is to provide former foster youth with tangible goods and tools to help them become successful, contributing members of the community.

Faith Bridge provides furniture, bedding, kitchen and bath essentials, small appliances, cleaning and laundry supplies, basic tools, hygiene and first aid items, home décor, clothing, shoes and career wear —all at no cost to the youth. When necessary, assistance with utility and lease deposits is also provided. On average, each client receives approximately $4,500 in items for their new apartment, alleviating the initial costs of independence.

The program’s success has been bolstered by previous support from the Riedel Foundation. Faith Bridge received a matching grant of $5,000 near the end of 2022 and another grant of $10,000 at the beginning of 2024. These funds were crucial in establishing and expanding the Carry On Program in Hannibal. By purchasing furniture and household goods at wholesale prices and in bulk, Faith Bridge has acquired large amounts of goods to benefit former foster youths as they transition out of the foster care system and secure safe, permanent housing.

The program also includes the Co-Pilot mentorship initiative, where youth are paired with mentors to guide them through the challenges and successes of independent living. HiSET Scholarships for earning a GED and enrollment/scholarship assistance for higher education or trade/tech school are also offered.

In a press release, Andie Jamerson, executive director and CEO said, “The support from the Riedel Foundation has been instrumental in enhancing and expanding our services. This grant allows us to continue meeting the needs of former foster youth, providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive.”