Bridge for Asylum Seekers Incorporated

Bridge for Asylum Seekers Incorporated is a long-established Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting people seeking asylum, particularly in the greater Sydney region and New South Wales (NSW). The organization focuses on preventing homelessness and destitution among asylum seekers by providing essential financial and material support.

History and Mission

Founded as one of the most enduring entities supporting asylum seekers in Australia, Bridge for Asylum Seekers has built a reputation for its commitment to humanitarian aid within the local community. Its mission centers on alleviating the hardships faced by asylum seekers who often arrive without adequate resources or government assistance, ensuring they have access to basic needs and temporary financial relief[1][3].

Activities and Services

The organization primarily offers basic and emergency aid, including financial assistance aimed at preventing housing instability and homelessness. During the recent financial year, Bridge for Asylum Seekers provided support to 186 people seeking asylum in NSW, including 56 children, distributing financial aid totaling approximately AUD 486,892. This assistance commonly includes living allowances and help with rental payments to secure accommodation, which is critical in preventing homelessness among vulnerable asylum seekers[2][4].

Bridge for Asylum Seekers operates mainly within Sydney and the broader NSW region, tailoring its services to meet the immediate needs of asylum seekers who are often ineligible for mainstream government support[3][4]. Its programs emphasize compassionate, person-centered aid that addresses urgent financial crises, thereby contributing significantly to social inclusion and stability for refugees and asylum seekers.

Organizational Structure

Bridge for Asylum Seekers Incorporated is registered as a charitable entity in Australia with the Australian Business Number (ABN) 18494407210RR0001. It operates as a not-for-profit association, relying on donations, grants, and community support to finance its aid initiatives[3][5].

Impact

The sustained operations and financial outreach of Bridge for Asylum Seekers have made it one of the key service providers in the Australian humanitarian sector focused on asylum seekers. By preventing destitution and homelessness, the organization plays a crucial role in enhancing the welfare and dignity of some of the most vulnerable populations in Australia, helping them navigate the challenges of seeking asylum and integration into society[1][2][5].

Note: The information above synthesizes publicly available data about Bridge for Asylum Seekers Incorporated up to 2023.

[1] https://bridgeforasylumseekers.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0abb4840-5e08-eb11-a812-000d3ad1cd99 [3] https://bridgeforasylumseekers.org.au/about-us/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0abb4840-5e08-eb11-a812-000d3ad1cd99/documents/8503f4dc-405a-ec11-8f8f-000d3ad27c4a [5] https://tuckerfoundation.org.au/bridge-for-asylum-seekers-incorporated/