Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry

The Heartland may be known as the nation's breadbasket, but not everyone shares in its abundance. Low wages, part-time employment and rising prices are creating a new class of poor in our communities. 11% of Nebraskans live at or below national poverty standards. 16% of households in Nebraska have low food security (having access to enough food for all household members, at all times, to lead an active, healthy life, or uncertainty around having or obtaining enough food to meet the needs of all members due to insufficient resources). Hunger in our community greatly affects the most vulnerable members of our society‐our children. 42% of the families in Nebraska who receive emergency food assistance support children under the age of 18. There are 26,970 children in Douglas County who are at-risk for hunger, and 7,600) in Sarpy County. One in five children participate free or reduced school breakfast and lunch programs. We believe that Jesus' charge to his disciple Peter to "Feed my sheep," (John 21:16) is our sacred duty and our daily calling. We are challenged by the great need around us, but we are hopeful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and to grow our spirits by serving all the children of God. And while we cannot solve all of their needs, we believe we must use our best efforts to do what we can. St. Matthew Ev. Lutheran church partners with Project Hope to operate a satellite Food Pantry at our church to serve our neighbors in the midtown Omaha area. We provide groceries, paper products and personal items to individuals and families in our community who do not have enough of what they need to get them through the month. Pantry users may choose from a variety of items based on their family size and need. There are no financial qualifications and no cost to use the pantry. Please bring picture ID, Social Security cards for each member of your family, and/or a piece of mail with your name and address. Third Saturday of each month, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Free to all participants.