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Bridge

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Bridge

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Research

Our research team is a vital force behind the learning and innovation that drive the Bridge Project forward, ensuring our work is grounded in rigorous evidence and real world impact. Through both qualitative and quantitative methods, the team studies the effectiveness of direct cash support — not just tracking outcomes, but also uncovering insights that shape our approach. Beyond our internal work, the research team collaborates with external partners, reviews the latest data and literature, and contributes to a broader understanding of what families need to thrive.

Meet Our Team

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Dr. Vanessa Jaelle

Dor

Director of Research

Jessica

Francois

Research Assistant

Abbe

Goldstein

Qualitative Research Assistant

Dr. Kwadjo

Owusu-Sarfo

Qualitative Researcher

Rachel

Schwartzbard

Research Intern

Esther

VanderMark

Quantitative Research Assistant

Caitlyn

Walsh

Quantitative Researcher

Bridge by the numbers

63%

of Bridge moms in transitional house secured stable housing after just 9 months in our program.

32%

of Bridge moms report dedicating their cash toward higher education or professional training.

26%

improvement in food security.

60%

increase in monthly savings.

33%

improvement in housing insecurity.

"It's a beautiful thing for Nala to see me prioritizing my education and to see the confidence I've gained through this process; she'll grow up knowing what's possible because she watched me do it."

– Briana, Bridge Project NYC

Meet Our Moms

Growing the evidence base

Cash as a Catalyst: Unleashing the Educational Potential of Low-Income Mothers (2025)

The Case for Cash: Early Investment in Moms Improves Prospects for Babies (2024)

Policy Brief: Building a Child Care System for the Families That Need it Most (2025)

Policy Brief: Supporting Lower-Income Families: Improving Housing Affordability in the Mamdani Era (2025)

Research Snapshot: Cash as a Stabilizer (2026)

Our external partners include the University of Pennsylvania Center for Guaranteed Income Research, the Columbia University Center on Poverty and Social Policy, and the Regenstrief Institute.

Your gift powers our work

The flexibility of unconditional cash transfers provides essential support during a period of heightened financial vulnerability, helping mothers secure safer, more stable living conditions.

Donate Now

Our Research

Bridge

Project

The Bridge Project is the nation’s first multistate direct cash program for moms and babies, alleviating childhood poverty through direct service, research, and policy advocacy.

EIN: 88-129

3144

Bridge

Project

The Bridge Project is the nation’s first multistate direct cash program for moms and babies, alleviating childhood poverty through direct service, research, and policy advocacy.

EIN: 88-129

3144