Los Puentes, meaning “The Bridges,” is Fisherman’s Mark’s dedicated initiative to connect and empower our Latino neighbors. As one of our most essential outreach programs, Los Puentes offers advocacy, resources, and cultural support to foster inclusion and address the unique needs of the Latino community in Lambertville and beyond. Born from the need to provide safety and reassurance, this program has evolved into a comprehensive resource hub—offering everything from ESL classes and college pathway guidance to the Community ID Program and health services. With nearly 40% of Fisherman’s Mark’s clients identifying as Latino, Los Puentes remains a trusted bridge between our community and the resources that support growth, stability, and belonging.
Community Resources
All of Fisherman’s Mark’s Community Outreach programs are open to everyone, including our Latino community members. Programs like our Backpack Program, Holiday Meal Program, Adopt-a Wishlist, and safety initiatives welcome participation from all residents, ensuring that everyone has access to essential resources and community support.
English as a Second Language Classes
Our ESL (English as a Second Language) program, part of the Los Puentes initiative, empowers members of the Latino community to build language skills crucial for personal and professional growth. Through structured classes tailored to different proficiency levels, participants gain the confidence to navigate daily interactions, enhance employment opportunities, and connect more fully with their community. The program celebrates milestones like graduation ceremonies, marking students’ achievements and growth. By supporting English language learning, Fisherman’s Mark strengthens our community’s inclusivity and opens doors to new possibilities for our Latino neighbors.
Pathway to College
In response to a community-identified need, Fisherman’s Mark developed the Pathway to College program to guide Latino high school students and their families through the college application and scholarship process. This initiative, hosted annually at Lambertville Academy, provides critical information in Spanish to help families understand the benefits of secondary education and navigate application requirements that are often only available in English. With over 50 students and parents attending recent events, Pathway to College supports young people in realizing their educational aspirations and creating pathways to future success.
Community ID Program
The Hunterdon Community ID Program, launched in partnership with local authorities, provides a secure identification card to Latino residents. This ID helps foster trust with local law enforcement and medical personnel, ensuring residents feel recognized, safe, and supported. Created to mitigate fears surrounding deportation and to foster a sense of belonging, the program is a cornerstone of Los Puentes, helping community members navigate daily life with confidence.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Fisherman’s Mark is proud to be a satellite facility for United Way of Hunterdon County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, offering free tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income community members. United Way volunteers work on-site at our facility, assisting clients with income tax filings, ITIN applications, and ensuring they maximize any eligible credits and refunds. By providing a convenient, trusted space for tax assistance, the VITA Program alleviates financial stress and promotes economic stability within the community. This service not only eases the tax filing process but also empowers participants with financial knowledge and access to essential resources.
Know Your Rights Workshops
Know Your Rights workshops offer essential legal information to Latino community members, empowering them with knowledge on topics like immigration rights, tenant protections, and workplace regulations. Through partnerships with legal advocates and local organizations, Fisherman’s Mark facilitates workshops that help participants understand their rights and protections under the law, fostering self-advocacy and resilience within the community.