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Founded in 1980, by Jackie Evon and two other women (referred to an an inmate's wife and a Minister's wife in their own history) Bridge House provided short term, low-cost accommodation and support facilities at two Kingston locations for low income women and children visiting inmates who were not otherwise able to afford commercial accommodation. It also offered transportation to and from the area's federal prisons, free day care, counselling and a networking base for the women involved. Bridge House, from its inception, was a charitable, incorporated, non-profit organization with a Board of solidly affiliated local people. For the majority of its operation Moira Duffy was the Executive Director. Support for the operation was received from the inmates in the furnishing, maintaining and advertising of the House. Support from the United Church, the Sisters of Providence and the private sector was also forthcoming. Municipal officials assisted with initial organizing and search for location. Correctional Services of Canada, Regional Headquarters, also assisted with the initial data gathering. Staff from the eight federal institutions also assisted in contacting the inmate committees. The first House, located at 26 Rideau Street, was officially opened in August 1982. In the mid 1980s support for the organization came from The City of Kingston, Queen's University and the federal government. In 1987 Bridge House moved to 333 Kingscourt Avenue and Bridge House II utilized the old warden's residence at Collin's Bay Penitentiary.

James Brophy emigrated from Ireland in 1816, having served with the 37th Regiment of Foot during the Peninsular War, and transferred with the Second Battalion to Upper Canada. He was granted 100 acres of land upon settling in Upper Canada near Marmora, which he sold to move to Kingston. He served with Kingston Police, and would build most of his wealth in real estate. He married Margaret Kelleher, with whom he had several children.