Let’s Build a Bigger Table
The Gathering Place
In 2025, The Gathering Place served 55,300 meals—that’s over 150 free meals per night to Lincoln neighbors in need. Each of those meals, along with every meal served over the past 44 years, has been prepared in a kitchen that’s only 120 square feet.
It’s Time For More Room
The Gathering Place is preparing to move just up the street to 919 South 12th Street, where a larger facility will give them twice the space of the current location. “With more room to prepare meals and welcome guests, we’ll be able to better meet the rising need while continuing to offer what has always mattered most: a safe, welcoming place to gather around the table,” says Lisa Janssen, The Gathering
Place Administrator.
As a program of Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties, The Gathering Place will be able to serve guests in new ways at its larger facility. The new space will include a larger dining area, along with private rooms where guests can meet with staff for case management, SNAP outreach, tenant rights assistance, and other Community Action programs that help neighbors move toward greater stability.
“More than 2,700 individuals received support relating to hunger relief and healthy food access last year, and we’re excited to help even more guests at our new space.”
Proposed Addition
Proposed New Dining Room
Food Insecurity Is Growing
Since 2021, The Gathering Place has increased the number of meals served by more than 80%. Despite that dramatic jump, the existing facility has remained largely the same. What has changed is the need outside its doors. More Lincoln neighbors are facing food insecurity, and more people need a place where they can sit down, share a warm meal, and feel safe for the evening.
The Gathering Place is working to create a space that can serve our neighbors for generations to come. The campaign to purchase and renovate the new building totals $3.5 million, with about $2.8 million already secured through generous private support and grants. Community members can help complete the campaign by donating online or mailing contributions to Community Action.
Be A Neighbor
Community support is what makes The Gathering Place possible, and there’s still time for neighbors like you to help bring the new space to life. If you’d like to contribute to the renovation of the new home—or learn how your gift can support meals and services in the years ahead—Community Action would love to hear from you.
Make a donation at bigger-table.com
Contact
Jessie Hedrick, 402-875-9338 | 210 O Street, Lincoln, NE 68508