HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Riedel Foundation has awarded a $15,000 grant to help Faith Bridge launch a new venture in Hannibal: a permanent Carry On Market, Teen Store, and Children’s Boutique designed to support foster, adoptive, and kinship families, as well as youth aging out of foster care.
Faith Bridge launched its Carry On Program for children aging out of foster care in Mid‑Missouri in 2021. With the help of an initial Riedel Foundation grant, the organization expanded its services to include Hannibal in 2022. Since that time, Faith Bridge has greatly increased services in Hannibal. Last year, the organization provided support to 140 foster children and furnished the apartments of 26 youth aging out of foster care. Now the program has expanded to the point that it is establishing its own location at the former Eugene Field Elementary School.
“The goal of Carry On is to provide former foster youth with tangible goods and tools to help them become successful, contributing members of the community,” said Faith Bridge Executive Director Andie Jamerson. The new Hannibal location will offer furniture, bedding, kitchen and bath essentials, small appliances, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, clothing, shoes, and more at no cost to young adults transitioning to independence.
On average, each participant receives approximately $4,500 in essential household items to help establish a safe and stable home. When needed, Faith Bridge also assists with utility and lease deposits. The program pairs these tangible supports with mentorship, GED certifications, and help accessing higher education or trade programs.
The Teen Store and Children’s Boutique will further expand Faith Bridge’s reach in Hannibal by offering free clothing, shoes, baby necessities, school supplies, and hygiene items to foster, adoptive, and kinship families in the region. Faith Bridge has served nearly 2,600 children and youth affected by foster care statewide and anticipates continued growth as the new stores open.
Jamerson said the Riedel Foundation’s continued support has been instrumental in expanding services in Hannibal. “The Riedel Foundation has believed in this work from the beginning,” Jamerson said. “Their generosity has allowed us to establish a permanent presence in Hannibal and ensure children in foster care and those who are aging out have the tools they need to succeed.”
The Riedel Foundation, established in 2000, provides grants that improve the quality of life for Hannibal residents, with a special emphasis on youth programs—an area that aligns closely with Faith Bridge’s mission.
“The Riedel Foundation supports programs that give young people in Hannibal the tools they need to build strong, independent futures,” said Riedel Foundation Trustee April Baldwin. “Faith Bridge is filling a critical gap for youth aging out of foster care, and we are happy to help establish a permanent location that will serve families for years to come.”