‘We’re here for you’: Open Harvest starts new initiative for families in need

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — In a season meant for gathering, many families in Lincoln are making difficult choices.

Open Harvest Co-Op — near 21st Street and Capitol Parkway — said that’s why their new ‘Neighbors in Need’ initiative matters now more than ever.

“We’re here for you, we got this gift card, and there’s no questions asked,” said Shelly Salem, marketing director for Open Harvest.

Salem said she overhears shoppers discussing how expensive groceries are.

“‘Oh, I need to put that back. I can’t afford that,'” she said. “Taking things off the conveyor belt and putting them back on the shelf, and just the continuous conversation of things are really expensive, prices are going up, and it’s really hard to afford groceries right now.”

The program will help provide financial support and fresh groceries to families facing tight budgets.

All you have to do is come to the front with your groceries and say you would like to use the Neighbors in Need service.

“I just see a lot of shoppers come through every day,” said donor Elizabeth Evans. “I just went through the register with my lunch and decided I had an extra few bucks to help people in need.”

And that’s how customers are helping others. When you get to the register, you can donate when you pay for your own groceries.

Salem said she hopes this initiative grows year after year, a reminder that helping each other is what makes this community strong.

“We started it during the holiday season, but as long as there’s money on this gift card, I would just love to see it continue,” said Salem. “The pay it forward principle is an awesome principle, and like I said earlier, when someone opens the door for you, it just makes you feel good, so carrying that feeling through this gift card in the store and through the communities as long as we can.”

And for families that may be hesitant or shy away from help, Evans said she donates because she remembers what it’s like.

“I, too, know what it feels like. I have been on a single income with my three kids during the holidays, and I know that even just $20 can really go a long way,” Evans said.