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Connection homeless shelter urges continued support as funding uncertainty could cut services
Summary
Leaders from The Connection Homeless Shelter told commissioners that the shelter served more people in 2024 and faces possible state and federal funding cuts that could reduce capacity; Nebraska Community Foundation urged local support and highlighted North Platte Giving Day.
The Connection Homeless Shelter told the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners on May 5 that demand for shelter services is rising and that proposed funding changes at the state and federal level could cut the shelter's budget by a quarter, potentially reducing capacity.
Ashley Lewis, director of The Connection, described the shelter's services and outcomes, saying "success looks different for every single person who walks through our doors," and gave examples of clients the shelter has helped with medication management, transitional housing and stable employment. Lewis said the shelter provided 65 beds and served 339 unique individuals in 2024, an 8 percent increase over 2023.
Eric Seacrest of the Nebraska Community Foundation, speaking in support of local nonprofits, cautioned that federal and state efforts to reduce fraud and waste have had the side effect of threatening funding for efficient local programs. "These local nonprofits are not into fraud or waste," Seacrest said, urging local leaders and donors to continue support. He promoted the North Platte Giving Day May 7 as a way for residents to contribute.
Why it matters: County leaders heard that a quarter of the shelter's operating budget and its joint transitional rapid rehousing program could be at risk if proposed cuts proceed, which could reduce services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across Lincoln County.
What was discussed: Lewis described individual client cases and program partnerships, including plans to place tiny homes for veterans built in partnership with Mid Plains Community College's Ready to Work program. She said some clients have complex behavioral health needs that require medication management. Seacrest said his organization can act as a fiscal pass-through for grants and highlighted local philanthropic efforts.
Next steps: Commissioners offered thanks and did not take formal action on funding during the meeting. Community foundation representatives noted early-giving for North Platte Giving Day was open and encouraged local donations to support the shelter and other nonprofits.
