Youth & Young Adult Services
Bridges staff meet youth and young adults where they’re at to support the challenges of transitioning to the independence and responsibilities of adulthood. From our work with prevention outreach in schools to our robust YAS program offerings for young adults affected by mental illness, Bridges is here to support young people in our community in real and effective ways.
B-SAFE Project
The B-SAFE Program is a school-based prevention and intervention program that addresses sexual and reproductive health, teen pregnancy prevention, healthy relationships, and body image for high school students in Milford and West Haven. The program provides an array of services that include: classroom presentations regarding sexual health, a series of supportive individual meetings that address personal concerns and follow-up questions, case management, individual therapy, and referrals to other services.
Mental Health First Aid
Bridges offers free Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. Youth MHFA teaches individuals how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This training gives adults who work with young people the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them with appropriate care.
Prevention Programs
Bridges partners with the Milford Prevention Council (MPC), West Haven Prevention Council (WHPC) and Bethany, Orange and Woodbridge Drug and Alcohol Action Committee (BOWDAAC) to address underage drinking, the illegal use of marijuana, the abuse of prescription drugs, vaping, opioids and other identified substance abuse issues in the community. The Councils seek to achieve their goals through prevention education, the support of law enforcement and the strengthening of community collaboration. In addition, Bridges works with the Milford Public Schools to coordinate the Natural Helper Program.
RM4 Drop-In Center
RM4 is a drop-in center that serves adolescents and young adults between the ages of 16 and 25. The center provides structured and unstructured activities for participants. An individual can come to relax, socialize, build friendships, discover new opportunities, and learn about community resources. Staff are available to provide support, social skills workshops, individual case management, meditation skills, special events, smart recovery meetings and other structured activities.
Young Adult Services
Young Adult Services (YAS) mission is to assist individuals affected by serious mental illness and/or traumatic events, so they may reach their fullest potential. Bridges’ YAS program helps young adults ages 18 – 25, who may be transitioning out of DCF or foster care and have mental health needs, achieve the necessary skills for a more independent adult life.
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