Webster Bank and Career Resources, Inc. (CRI), a leading workforce development non-profit serving Bridgeport, Connecticut, have announced an exclusive partnership on their latest ground-breaking initiative, "The Bridge on Main," which will offer banking products and services specifically tailored for the city's most vulnerable populations.
The Bridge on Main project, which is set to open in mid-2024, will serve as a collaborative resource center for system-affected individuals and their families. The Bridge on Main will provide access to job training and placement services, with the goal of addressing systemic barriers to employment, economic equity, and community reintegration.
“The Bridge on Main will increase access, inclusion and opportunity in the Bridgeport area,” said Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer Marissa Weidner.
“Our participation in The Bridge on Main goes beyond financial support. Our Community Liaison Officers and Community Banking Center Managers will deliver financial education and share their expertise, and Webster colleagues will have opportunities to volunteer with the program. We’ll also offer on-site access to financial services for participants and their families,” added Weidner.
Webster Bank has pledged $750,000 to The Bridge on Main project. This investment is part of Webster's Community Investment Strategy, which aims to support and enhance development in Webster's local communities.
Webster’s Office of Corporate Responsibility (OCR) manages Webster’s Community Investment Strategy, as well as all community-facing activities across the organization, with an emphasis on Webster’s values of integrity, collaboration, accountability, agility, respect and excellence. The Bridge on Main initiative speaks to these values and aligns with the Community Investment Strategy focus areas of community development and community support.