Community Action’s (www.communityactionatwork.org) Gathering Place has announced that its year-end match campaign has received a preliminary total of over $187,000. Thanks to generous sponsors who matched $1 for $1, a match pool was created for donations to the Gathering Place made between October 17 and December 31. Dollars raised will support provision of free hot, nutritious meals to community members in Lincoln.

“The community’s support during this campaign has been incredible to witness,” said Heather Loughman, CEO of Community Action. “Right now, many in our community are struggling to make ends meet due to factors such as increased inflation rates, rising costs of living, and more far beyond their control. We appreciate our community’s commitment to caring for our neighbors through support of the Gathering Place.”

The 2022 giving campaign also recognized the 40th anniversary of the Gathering Place’s presence in Lincoln. This giving opportunity was possible thanks to generous match sponsors, including legacy sponsor Acklie Charitable Foundation, and additional sponsors Union Bank and Trust; Bukaty Companies; INSPRO; Rohn and Beth Loyd; Connie Maguire; and James Stuart III Family Foundation.

Located just two blocks south of the Nebraska State Capitol Building in a neighborhood with one of the highest poverty rates in Lincoln, Community Action’s Gathering Place provides free meal service seven days a week to anyone who needs it. Annually, the Gathering Place serves over 30,000 meals.

Community Action empowers people living in poverty to reach economic stability. For more information, visit www.communityactionatwork.org.