The Bridge Lambertville, a Lambertville-focused Christian community supported by Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church (TMPC) in New Hope, has teamed up with Fisherman’s Mark Social Services in Lambertville to address one of the most persistent needs among low-income families in Lambertville: emergency utility assistance.
This new initiative will help Fisherman’s Mark clients who are struggling to pay their heating and electric bills—especially during colder months or after sudden rate increases. The program stems from a clear need identified in Fisherman’s Mark’s recent Community Needs Assessment, where help with utility bills emerged as one of the most pressing challenges for local families.
“Utility assistance came out at the very top—second only to affordable housing,” said Doug Shaw, a Fisherman’s Mark board member and the lead on the assessment.“ Affording these basic necessities is among the most difficult challenges for our participants, whether they’re seniors on fixed incomes or younger families with children.”
The funding will be administered through Fisherman’s Mark’s Emergency Assistance Program, helping to prevent deeper crises and promote stability for vulnerable households.
“We often see clients who are doing everything right—working hard, budgeting, taking care of their families—but a single high utility bill can jeopardize everything,” said Jennifer Williford, Executive Director of Fisherman’s Mark. “This support means we can say yes more often—and faster—when someone needs immediate help.”
The Bridge was inspired to act after reviewing the results of the Needs Assessment. For this Christian community—whose mission is to worship with joy, serve with purpose, and grow in spirit—the decision to respond was in alignment with their core values. As they describe it: “Honoring Lambertville’s history of resilience and connection, we seek to create sacred space for all—welcoming diverse voices, caring for our neighbors, and partnering for the flourishing of all.”
“This donation reflects our deep belief in caring for neighbors and building a resilient, connected community,” said Jeff Campbell, a Lambertville resident and Bridge team member. “Partnering with Fisherman’s Mark enhances our ability to serve in a way that’s practical, personal, and grounded in real local needs.”
TMPC already supports Fisherman’s Mark in numerous ways—providing essentials like frozen prepared meals and personal care items—and this new partnership was a natural next step.
“It’s wonderful to have such generous neighbors looking to help neighbors in need,” Shaw added. “We’re deeply grateful for their thoughtfulness and commitment to filling critical gaps.”
Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church is located on Aquetong Road in New Hope and is home to The Bridge. “Thompson is a place where you can find your people, grow in faith, and connect with others to serve the world,” their website notes.
For more information about this utility assistance program, contact Fisherman’s Mark at 609-397-0194. To learn more about The Bridge and its mission, visit thebridgelambertville.org