The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago is honoring Melvin Bridgmon of Chicago as this year’s Military Hero at the organization’s 21st Annual Heroes Breakfast. The event will be held Thursday, May 11 from 7:30-10:00 A.M. at the Hilton Chicago.
Melvin Bridgmon, a U.S. Navy Veteran, and his late sister Margaret, founded Outreach Chicago, a veteran-led, faith-based organization to address the needs of people experiencing homelessness including families and veterans in Chicago.
A veteran who experienced homelessness himself, Bridgmon seeks to provide resources, information, guidance and hope to those experiencing homelessness, drawing from stories of his own life and his struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder. Outreach Chicago’s programs include nutritional bag lunches, hygiene products for men, women, and babies, as well as winter clothing distribution.
Outreach Chicago estimates it has helped 16,000 people since 2010. “I’ve had PTSD so I know what trauma is and what roads it will take you down, so that’s why I keep doing what I’m doing because people need to come home,” he says.
“It’s an honor to recognize Melvin’s work and dedication to make sure that those experiencing homelessness have resources, guidance, and basic items like food and toiletries,” said Celena Roldán Sarillo, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross of Illinois. “We are excited to celebrate with Melvin at this year’s Heroes Breakfast.”
An independent committee of leaders in the business and civic community selected honorees in 12 community service categories. For the complete list of 2023 Heroes, visit redcross.org/heroes.
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