The Bridgeport Rescue Mission held its annual Hearts With Hope fundraiser on Saturday in Fairfield.

Organizers said more than 150 people turned out for the event at the Patterson Club.

It featured a panel discussion led by Melissa Sheketoff of WICC Radio, along with four formerly homeless female residents of the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

"Our Hearts With Hope Event was a terrific success after a three-year COVID hiatus. We raised a significant amount of capital to support our new floor, which is going to house homeless, mothers and children. We already have a few families living there already. We came short of our budgetary goals, but that's to be expected after such a long time without fundraising," said the Mission's Craig Adler.

He added the nonprofit raised about half of its $150,000 goal, so additional donations are we welcomed.

If you would like to donate, follow this link.