Bright Bridge Ministries will celebrate the grand opening of its newly renovated South Wing on March 24, expanding shelter capacity by 40 beds and increasing its total capacity from 50 to 90 beds to better serve individual experiencing homelessness in the community.
The renovation represents a significant investment in safety, dignity, and stability at Bright Bridge Ministries’ His Place Shelter, which provides shelter and supportive services for men in need.
The expansion was made possible through a $1.3 million grant from FloridaCommerce and the generosity of community supporters. The additional beds will allow Bright Bridge Ministries to meet growing demand while continuing to provide pathways toward long-term independence.
The evening will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a Fresh Start Culinary Arts graduation ceremony in Noble Dining Hall, recognizing participants who have successfully completed a four-week intensive workforce training program offered throughout the year.
The Fresh Start program equips residents with job skills, certification opportunities, and hands-on experience to help them transition into sustainable employment.At 4:30 p.m., community leaders, donors, partners, and supporters will gather at the South Wing entrance for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Brief remarks will highlightthe collaborative effort behind the renovation and the impact the expanded shelter space will have on the community.
From 4:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., guests are invited to attend an open house and tour the newly renovated wing at 2600 W. Strong Street in Pensacola.
“This renovation is about more than adding beds,” said Rev. Ashlee Mosley Brown, Executive Director of Bright Bridge Ministries. “It’s about restoring hope, providing safety, and ensuring that more individuals in our community have access to the support they need to rebuild their lives.”
Community members and media are encouraged to attend. Media planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP in advance to schedule interviews.
About Bright Bridge Ministries:
Founded in 2007, Bright Bridge Ministries promotes the dignity and well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness and those who are under-resourced in the Pensacola community. The organization serves more than 1,750 men, women, and children annually through offering meals and supportive services. In 2025, His Place Shelter provided 15,917 nights of shelter to 265 men, with 76 men moving into stable housing. In addition to food and shelter, Bright Bridge Ministries offers mail services, hygiene products, life skills and recovery groups, and other essential resources that support long-term stability.
For more information, visit brightbridgeministries.org
