Good Works
Good Works was founded in 2002 as an outreach initiative of the Public Relations Committee of The First Church of God and Saints of Christ, Bridgeport, CT. The organization emerged from a deep desire within the church community to respond to the growing needs of individuals and families experiencing hardship in Bridgeport, Connecticut. In its earliest days, Good Works focused on providing monthly meals to those who gathered under the viaduct on John Street, a location known for being a gathering place for individuals facing food insecurity and economic instability. These meals were more than just food - they were an expression of compassion, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves to be seen, supported, and cared for.
From this humble beginning, Good Works developed into a consistent and trusted presence in the Bridgeport community. The organization's founding purpose was rooted in faith, service, and the belief that practical acts of kindness can transform lives. Over time, Good Works expanded its outreach, responding to emerging needs and strengthening its commitment to serving individuals and families with compassion and respect.
Founding Purpose and Core Mission
The core mission of Good Works is to enrich and improve the quality of life- spiritually, economically, and socially- for all people. This mission is grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the belief that service should be offered without prejudice or partiality. Good Works seeks to share God's love through tangible support, meaningful relationships, and programs that uplift individuals and strengthen families.
The organization's mission reflects a holistic understanding of community needs. Good Works recognizes that people require more than food or supplies - they need encouragement, stability, and opportunities to thrive. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges, Good Works strives to be a source of hope and practical assistance for those facing hardship.
Signature Programs
Today, Good Works operates several signature programs that are central to its identity and impact.
1. Annual Back to School Drive
This program ensures that Bridgeport students begin the school year with supplies they need to succeed. Good Works distributes backpacks, notebooks, writing tools, and other essential items to children throughout the community. The program also provides targeted support to individual schools when specific needs arise, helping educators create positive and well-equipped learning environments.
2. Annual Thanksgiving Basket Distribution
One of the organization's most beloved and impactful programs, the Thanksgiving Basket Distribution serves more than 100+ families each year. Each basket contains food and holiday essentials that allow families facing financial hardship to enjoy a meaningful Thanksgiving meal. This program has become a trusted source of support for many households and reflects Good Works commitment to providing dignity and joy during the holiday season,
3. Partnership with DonorsChoose and Local Schools
Good Works collaborates with teachers, local officials, such as the Mayor's Office, and schools to fulfill classroom needs, support learning environments, and help educators access resources that directly benefit students. This partnership strengthens educational opportunities and supports teachers who often use personal funds to meet classroom needs.
Commitment to Service and Sustainability
For more than two decades, Good Works has remained committed to serving with faith, compassion, and integrity. Its long-standing programs, established partnerships, and strong community relationships allow Good Works to operate effectively and efficiently.
Good Works sustains its work through church support, individual donors, community partnerships, and grant funding. As long as resources allow, the organization will continue to provide meals, school supplies, and holiday support to families in need. Good Works remains steadfast in its mission to uplift individuals, strengthen families, and share God's love through meaningful acts of service.
A committee of dedicated volunteers leads this effort:
St. Ann‑Marie Mercurius‑Brown, Assistant Chairperson
St. Natasha Allen, Treasurer
St. Camille Patterson, Secretary
St. Angela Troxler, Spokesperson
Other Members: St. Natalee Montaque, St. Clover Mills, St. Donna Wint, St. Michelle Williams‑Linton, St. Dorothy Hilton, Chorister St. Fitzroy Marsh, St. Sean Henry, and St. Patrick Wint (F.A.)
As stated in I Corinthians 13:13: “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”