LJ Bridge Foundation
Bridging The Gap
For Veterans and their families
The L.J. Bridge Foundation exists to fill the gaps that create crisis for Veterans and their families, offering timely support, building community, and investing in future generations through education.
Upcoming Event
Veterans and Family Field Day
September 13, 2026
11:00 AM
copley community park
A fun-filled day for veterans and their loved ones. This community event will feature kickball games, friendly field day competitions, food, and family fun -- all designed to bring veterans and their families together for laughter, connection, and support.
BRIDGE
Support Before Crisis
Bridge for Veterans, through the L.J. Bridge Foundation, helps Veterans and their families bridge urgent gaps through emergency aid, community care, education support, and trusted referrals.
Often times Veterans coming home need access to additional resources or help adjusting to civilian life again. The foundation was built from lived experience as a Veteran family and is rooted in compassion, speed, dignity, and practical help.
The foundation honors the legacy of Sgt. Louis James Loftus, 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army. His service, story, and invisible battles inspired a mission to make sure Veterans and their families are not left to face hardship alone.
His Story
Sgt. Louis James Loftus
82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army
Sgt. Louis James Loftus served two tours in Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne Division. His story — and the invisible battles that followed his service — inspired the creation of this foundation. His legacy lives on through every veteran and family we serve.
In loving memory.
SGT.Louis James Loftus
His Story, as Featured by NBC News
How Our Support Works
Submit your Request
Veterans or family members fill out our short Request for Support Form outlining their need.
24-Hour Review & Response
Our team reviews every request within 24 hours and determines the best path forward.
Support or Referral
We either provide direct assistance, connect you with trusted resources, or refer you to organizations best suited to help -- ensuring no one is left without guidance.
Meet The Founder
Deidra Lopez
Founder And President
Deidra Lopez founded The L.J. Bridge Foundation in memory of her children's father, Sgt. Louis James Loftus. As the daughter of a veteran and mother of three sons, she has witnessed firsthand the challenges military families face. She is a licensed Peer Support Specialist and Advisory Council member for Warriors Journey Home.
“As the daughter of a veteran and mother of children to a veteran, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges military families face. The LJ Bridge Foundation isn't just an organization to me -- it's personal.”
Services
Our Core Programs
Bridge for Veterans focuses on the moments where fast, practical help can keep hardship from becoming crisis.
Emergency Financial Aid
Urgent support for rent, utilities, medical bills, transportation, and other essential expenses.
Community Care Events
Seasonal gatherings that ease burdens, build connection, and connect families with local resources.
Education Scholarships
Education support for children and grandchildren of Veterans.
Who
Who we Serve
1
VETERANS
- Individuals who have served in any branch of the United States Armed Forces
- Those who have been honorably or medically discharged
- Active-duty service members may also qualify
2
Families of Veterans
- Spouses and domestic partners of veterans
- Children (biological, adopted, or stepchildren) of veterans
- Dependents currently living with or supported by a veteran
3
Future Generations
- Grandchildren of veterans are also eligible for support
- Verification of the veteran’s service may be required
- Education scholarship programs available
The Need Has Never Been Greater
There are many ways to stand beside Veterans and their families. Give, volunteer, share resources, or help connect someone to support.
Veteran Suicides per day
VA Mental Health,2022
Homeless Veterans
VA Point-in-Time Count, Jan 2024
Military & Veteran Care Givers
VA HSR&D
Care Givers Report High Stress
VA HSR&D
What You Can Do
There are many ways to stand beside Veterans and their families. Give, volunteer, share resources, or help connect someone to support.
Make a Donation
Every dollar directly supports a veteran in need. Your contribution funds emergency financial aid, community events, and educational scholarships.
Volunteer with us
Help plan events, review applications, or spread the word in your community. Your time makes a real difference in a veteran’s life.
Share Our Mission
Follow us on social media and tell veterans about our services. Awareness saves lives — the more people who know about us, the more veterans we can reach.
No Veteran or Military Family Should Face Crisis Alone
Whether you need emergency assistance, want to attend a community event, are seeking educational support, or want to stand beside those who served, Bridge for Veterans is here.
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