The HLC Access Bridge Model is a community partnership initiative designed to help mothers move from identified need to real access to essential support services.

Through our research and community engagement, the HLC Maternal and Family Mental Health Research Center consistently hears from mothers who report urgent needs related to safe shelter, reliable transportation, emergency childcare, and emergency food support. While services may exist in the community, access barriers such as long wait times, transportation challenges, and unclear referral processes often prevent families from receiving timely help.

The Access Bridge Model responds to these gaps by creating warm pathways between HLC and trusted local partners. Rather than simply providing a list of resources, HLC helps facilitate connections by coordinating referrals, supporting communication, and confirming next steps when possible.

HLC does not provide direct services such as housing, transportation, childcare, or food assistance. Instead, we serve as a bridge, working alongside community organizations, faith-based groups, and service providers that already offer these supports. Our role is to strengthen coordination, reduce access delays, and support dignity and follow-through for mothers seeking help.

In addition to improving access, this model allows HLC to document service gaps and access outcomes in real time. These insights help inform research, funding, and system-level improvements aimed at strengthening maternal and family well-being.

The HLC Access Bridge Model reflects our commitment to community-informed research, meaningful partnerships, and practical solutions that respond to real needs.