With deep family roots in the Opotiki District, going back to the 1800's, descendants of the Bridger family have ensured the family name will live on in the Opotiki District forever, by establishing a fund to benefit the education, enrichment and welfare of children in the Opotiki community. 

The Historic Places Grade 2 listed building on the corner of Elliot and Church Streets opened its doors in 1915 as Bridgers Limited, and is tangible evidence of the presence of this family in Opotiki. This was a store that sold fabric, haberdashery, gloves, hats, and other fashion accessories, textiles and household linen. At one time there was also a salon, serving tea upstairs. The store was operated by one of 3 sons of the original Bridger family. The two other sons moved to Whakatane and established a smililar business on The Strand, which continued trading until the 1980's, today the building is largely used for entertainment and hospitality. The Opotiki store sold to the Farmers Trading Company and then became Hickeys Sports store. The building has recently sold and will begin a new era in the near future, strengthened and restored to its former glory days.

The Opotiki Museum archives show that the Bridger family were very active in the early affairs of the town and the district, represented in sports teams, and also serving the district during wartime. This generous gift will provide opportunities for many years to come to the youth of the district.