The Honorable John Kerry
U.S. Senate
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Sen. Kerry:

As executive director of Bridges for Youth, I would like to invite you to visit our emergency shelter, transitional living and youth drop-in programs.

Since its founding in 1976, Bridges for Youth has helped over 15,000 young people in crisis. We primarily serve youth from Essex County and surrounding Massachusetts counties, but we have also worked with runaways from across the country. Federal, state and private dollars allow us to offer comprehensive services to runaway, homeless and other youth in high-risk situations.

When you visit, our staff, volunteers, youth and other community partners will be on hand to show you our programs and discuss all that Bridges for Youth is doing to ensure young people's safety and positive development.

We ask for an hour of your time to tour our programs. Perhaps you could visit us during your next trip home. I will follow up with your appointment secretary to set up an appropriate time.

Thank you for your leadership on behalf of Massachusetts young people and their families.

Sincerely yours,

Karen Forkidds
Executive Director
Bridges for Youth