Stories of rising need, confidential testing and life-altering legal decisions shaped two recent presentations which laid bare the pressures local families are facing. The program was hosted by the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce and opened with Bridge of Hope Office Manager Sharon Walker describing rising referrals and growing requests for help. Bridge of Hope is a faithbased nonprofit pregnancy and family resource center that focuses on emotional support, practical assistance and education for women, men and families. The organization emphasizes encouragement, relationshipbuilding and nonjudgmental care, offering services ranging from pregnancy support to family guidance and material resources. Walker began by outlining the wide range of people who rely on the center. She noted receiving frequent referrals from parole officers, probation officers, judges and state agencies. “We not only help women, but we also help men and boys as well,” said Walker. Everything the center…