A number of local groups are coming together to help families from Afghanistan and Ukraine resettle in Lincoln. Meagan Liesveld is executive director of United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County, which has established the Lincoln Resettlement Fund.
“We are actually going to try and raise $400,000 in one month and then pull those dollars together and turn those out into the community through a very streamlined and quick grant process.”
Liesveld says in recent months Lincoln has experienced a significant increase in the number of families coming into our community from Afghanistan and Ukraine and that has put a strain on some of the local support systems. “We’re hoping to impact some of the transportation needs, some of the childcare needs and some expanded case management support.”
She says the money will be raised through July 7. Anyone wanting to support the fund can do so at unitedwaylincoln.org or text the word resettle to 41444. Checks can also be sent to the United Way offices at 238 south 13th Street in Lincoln.
Several community partners have already donated $120,000 toward the cause. The United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County is working with Lincoln Community Foundation, Duncan Aviation, Community Health Endowment, Woods Charitable Fund Inc., and local groups.