Heart River Bridges of Hope
"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your wellbeing and not for harm, to give you a future with hope." – Jeremiah 29:11
Heart River Bridges of Hope is an outreach and re-entry ministry on behalf of the ELCA and the whole Church. As an expression of God’s grace and love, this ministry provides women and youth in the corrections and rehabilitation system with opportunities for community worship, mentorship, wellness, and mutually enriching relationships. Trusting and believing that God heals and creates new life, our intent is to accompany and empower our siblings in Christ toward a future with hope.
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Reduce recidivism
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Foster faith formation and spiritual development
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Empower youth and women in the corrections system
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Empower the greater Church for mission and advocacy
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Serve the state of North Dakota
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Work to build ecumenical, faith-based relationships with individuals and congregations
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This is an important ministry, but we can't do it alone. We rely on people and partners who graciously give of their time and talent. Sometimes it is joining us for a game night or a book study. Sometimes it is helping to sort Fresh Start Kit items. Ask us how you can help!
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​Volunteering in the cottages of the correctional center requires clearance and background checks by the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. For more information about volunteering, please contact:
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Pastor Gail Hagerty
701-471-2400
Fresh Start Kits & Quilts
​For more information about donating quilts or fresh start bag supplies, please contact:
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Pastor Gail Hagerty
701-471-2400
Every resident leaving the Youth Correctional Center receives a backpack filled with items to help ease the stress of re-entry. Your donation of these NEW items helps a young person in transition get a “fresh start” in life! Thank you!
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Towels & washcloths
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Shampoo & conditioner
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Body wash
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Lotion
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Toothbrush & toothpaste
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Deodorant
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Razor & shaving cream
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Hairbrush or comb
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Water bottle
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Small first aid kit
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Fingernail clipper
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Nail polish
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Socks
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Hat & gloves
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Gum or candy
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$25 gift card to Target or Walmart
We also make sure each person coming through either the Youth Correctional Center or Heart River Correctional Center receives a quilt lovingly made and supplied by quilters throughout the Western North Dakota Synod and elsewhere.
Special thanks to our partners!​
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Reconciling Works
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Ministry on the Margins
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Congregations within the Western ND Synod and Eastern ND Synod, ELCA
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ND Dept. of Corrections & Rehabilitation
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Dakota OutRight
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Quilting groups throughout the region​
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This vital ministry is only possible with the help of many partners who share their prayers, time, talent, financial resources, our story, and a call by the Holy Spirit to walk with those who have been incarcerated and all who find themselves living on the margins.
