Making a Difference: The Impact of Community Support at Brightpoint

In the heart of Bloomington, Illinois, a dedicated organization is changing lives—one family at a time. Brightpoint, formerly known as Children's Home and Aid, has been serving the community since 1883, providing essential services to families in crisis. In a recent episode of the Life Multiplied podcast, we sat down with Kara Moffett, a program manager at Brightpoint, to discuss the organization’s mission, its local partnerships, and the upcoming Stuff the Bus event that plays a vital role in supporting families in need.

Kara Moffett, who has been with Brightpoint for four years, shared the organization’s commitment to serving families across 70 counties in Illinois. Bright Point operates programs such as the crisis nursery and family visitation center that support families facing challenges. Kara emphasized, "We could not do the work we do without our community partners," highlighting collaborations with local businesses and nonprofits that enhance their services.

The strength of Brightpoint lies in its collaboration with local organizations, including Paul Davis Restoration and Connect Transit, which provide essential support. These partnerships allow Brightpoint to extend its reach and impact, demonstrating the power of community solidarity in addressing the needs of families in crisis.

During our conversation, Kara shared a poignant story about a grandmother who gained custody of her five grandchildren and turned to Brightpoint for support. This grandmother has used the crisis nursery for 8 years, stating that the services, such as free diapers, wipes, and formula, have been life-changing. "It has allowed her to become a better parent to her grandkids," Kara explained, illustrating how Brightpoint directly impacts the lives of families in need.

Stuff the Bus: Brightpoint's largest event of the year, Stuff the Bus, collects essential supplies for families with young children. Scheduled for the first week of December, the event features a 40-foot bus parked at various locations where community members can donate items such as diapers, wipes, and baby food. Kara described the event as crucial, noting, "All the supplies we fill the bus with last us for the year, providing care for the children in the nursery and the community."

If you’re interested in supporting this incredible cause, volunteering for Stuff the Bus is a great way to help. Kara mentioned that volunteers are needed to distribute flyers and gather donations. Those who wish to contribute can find more information on Brightpoint’s website or social media pages.

The work being done at Brightpoint is a testament to the impact of community support in transforming lives. With events like Stuff the Bus and the dedication of individuals like Kara Moffett, countless families receive the assistance they need to thrive. As we reflect on the stories shared in this podcast, it's clear that every little donation and act of support matters significantly. Join Bright Point in making a difference—because together, we can multiply the impact.