Lincoln nonprofit statistics show more people in need, with more willing to help

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — For one local nonprofit, help is in high demand, but so is hope.

Bridges to Hope met an increase in need with more compassion and action than ever before.

The nonprofit released its 2025 statistics, which showed a 11% increase in people seeking support.

“With LB50 passed, they have been revisiting the release dates for a lot of those that have been incarcerated, so we have some increase in that capacity,” said Executive Director Rhonda Mattingly. “And we’ve also seen an increase in the number of care packages that have been requested and that we provide.”

But the community’s response is what’s helping make real change.

Volunteer hours increased by 20%, while donation numbers rose by 17%.

Inside the Bridges to Hope warehouse, the walls are lined with those donations — everything from clothes to couches to kitchen items.

Mattingly said this represents neighbors showing up for neighbors.

“We have several places in the community, and once they start learning about different areas and different options, I think that’s what’s made the increase,” she said.

The organization is in the process of building a Hope Village — a small neighborhood of 18 permanent, supportive homes for people formerly incarcerated.

And with the uptick in the community’s support, the homes are well underway to completion.

“Because they’re bringing donations and they’re learning about Hope Village, and how providing stable housing is going to help not just those that are re-entering, but it’s going to help the entire community,” Mattingly said. “It’s going to lower our tax dollars, it’s going to lower recidivism rates. I think once people hear that, by coming and giving donations, and hearing about what else is to come, they’re more apt to support.”

Mattingly said they hope to open Hope Village by October of this year.