Lincoln nonprofit offers hope as government shutdown hits local families
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — As the government shutdown continues, families in Lincoln are struggling to make ends meet.
Catholic Social Services is stepping up: providing food, basic needs and hope for those who aren’t sure where else to turn.
Executive director Katie Patrick said she’s seeing more families come through the door.
“That’s there’s no money available for that family who’s receiving SNAP to go buy food, and that’s when we really see an increase here at Catholic Social Services,” she said.
The government shutdown isn’t just a political battle; it’s impacting real people in Lincoln.
Patrick said her team is working to keep up with the demand, especially as more refugees seek help.
One issue is that you must have had a green card for 5 years to be eligible for SNAP, and many haven’t been in Lincoln that long.
For many, the shutdown has left them without pay or cut off from SNAP benefits.
But Patrick said, she’s also seeing the best in people.
“In one of the small towns that we serve, a restaurant owner wanted to make sure that our clients had the ability to go out to a restaurant and buy food, and so she brought out gift cards,” she said. “You know it’s the dignity of that gift card and the ability to go buy food for your family.”
As the shutdown continues, Catholic Social Services said its doors will stay open for anyone who needs a little help and a little hope.
“I just want to make sure that they know they’re welcome, that there’s no stigma behind it, and that every agency out there, every church that participates in a food pantry is very eager to help those who are in need,” Patrick said.
