The Bridge Food Center in Midland is serving the Tri-City community
By: April Hernandez
MIDLAND — The Bridge Grocery Store has moved to its new location at 1826 S. Saginaw Rd. They have expanded stores and are ready to serve even more of the community. This isn’t just for Midland residents; this is for any household who makes $30,000 to $72,000 a year. The Bridge’s mission? To extend a helping hand to as many people as possible, especially those falling under the ALICE category: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed; individuals who, despite being above the poverty line, still feel the pinch of rising costs and inflation.
Meet Marsha Stamas, one of the rockstar managers behind The Bridge’s operation. Stamas says she’s happy with the store’s outcome so far.
“[It is] much beyond what we hoped for,” Stamas says. “But we know we can serve more.”
The Bridge does not accept the Bridge Card. This is because The Bridge is all about bridging the gap for those who fall just outside the criteria for government assistance. So cash, credit or debit is accepted. And, get this, the price you see on the shelf is just five cents above the wholesale price. That little extra goes towards covering credit/debit card fees, bags and other business fees.
There is also no interrogating when customers checkout. The volunteer at the front desk just asks for your name, city and household size. Then you’re good to go.
“It’s all about the people. At The Bridge, your privacy and dignity are top priority,” Stamas says.
So, how did this gem come to be? A group at a local church running a food pantry realized that folks needed more than just emergency help; they needed a reliable place to shop that wouldn’t empty their wallets before payday. The Bridge was essentially created to keep refrigerators stocked without breaking the bank.
The Bridge has teamed up with Hidden Harvest in Saginaw to provide customers with fresh bread and produce twice a week. Hidden Harvest is a non-profit organization fighting hunger and food waste in Saginaw. They receive surplus food from stores, farms and other sources, then distribute it to food pantries, shelters and other programs serving those in need. Since 1994, they have diverted over 50 million pounds of food from waste.
The Bridge is always on the lookout for volunteers to join their team. Whether you have a knack for stocking shelves or are looking for ways to help your community, The Bridge would love to have you on board. And, if you’re feeling extra generous, financial donations are gladly accepted too. Every little bit helps keep The Bridge running smoothly and serving those who need it most.
So next time you’re torn between groceries for the week or gas for the ride, remember: The Bridge has your back. It is not just a store; it is a lifeline, a community and a beacon of hope for anyone who has ever had to stretch a dollar. So, swing by and check out The Bridge for yourself. Your wallet — and your stomach — will thank you.
