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Lincoln approves $50,000 contract for Light of Restoration to expand counseling for domestic‑violence survivors
Summary
The council authorized a $50,000 agreement to support counseling and educational programs run by the Light of Restoration Foundation, targeting intimate-partner violence in Lincoln’s Latino/Hispanic community. The council requested a progress report in about 5–6 months and left open the option to add another $50,000.
The City of Lincoln voted June 11 to authorize a $50,000 agreement and budget augmentation for Light of Restoration Foundation to provide counseling and mental‑health support services for people affected by domestic and intimate‑partner violence.
City staff described the nonprofit as relatively new to Lincoln and said the funds would help formalize office space and professionalize service delivery, with a preference for a downtown counseling center. Staff recommended an initial allocation of $50,000 and requested the foundation report back to council after five to six months; the council reserved the right to allocate another $50,000 based on outcomes.
"Our foundation Light of Restoration is just ready to commit to this city of Lincoln and to rescue those families who are suffering…we are here to make a difference," Carmen, director of Light of Restoration, told the council. Carmen said the group provides counseling, educational classes and home‑based services when clients cannot travel to the office.
Beatrice, a social worker with the foundation and a lifelong Lincoln resident, described direct experience supporting families and said the organization has already assisted local households. Members of the public and several councilmembers expressed support, noting the organization’s cultural competence for serving Hispanic and Latino residents.
Council voted to adopt the resolution authorizing the agreement; staff will monitor program progress and appear for a mid-term update as described in the approved agreement.
The resolution was adopted unanimously.
