PONCA — In a park full of scenic spots, one particularly remote overlook is one of the best Ponca State Park offers.
High above the Missouri River, this stop along the Corps of Discovery Trail provides a commanding view of the river valley below. Bald eagles soar and cry out along the river banks and trees.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission hopes even more people can someday take in this spectacular sight through a program that provides track chairs, an all-terrain version of a wheelchair, for park users.
It's a grassy, uphill climb to get to this overlook and would be nearly impossible for someone in a regular wheelchair. Instead of wheels, these chairs operate on tracks, which, along with a wide base, allow them to go over nearly any kind of terrain, opening up more areas of Nebraska's state parks to visitors who use wheelchairs.
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"This gives people access to places they've never been able to access before," Ponca State Park superintendent Scott Oligmueller said.
Launched this summer, the Nebraska Game and Parks On Track Program aims to buy eight of these chairs and station four at Ponca and four in a western Nebraska park yet to be determined. The chairs would be transported to other state parks for use. The Game and Parks Commission bought the first two this summer and placed them in Ponca. A recent donation from the Nebraska American Legion provided funds to buy a third.
"We want to promote outdoor access to all," said Jeff Fields, Game and Parks Commission parks division administrator and previous Ponca State Park superintendent.
Track chairs have been around for a while, Fields said, and park systems in other states have implemented them. Nebraska Game and Parks officials got serious about the battery-powered units after watching demonstrations at a national conference three or four years ago.
A system to check out or reserve use of the chairs is still in development, so for now, the chairs will be available only at Game and Parks events such as Ponca's Missouri River Outdoor Expo and other programs that draw large crowds.
The chairs could come in handy during the many education events the commission puts on for school children if there's a student who requires a wheelchair. The chairs have mounts for fishing rods and guns, so they could be used at shooting ranges and fishing events, which are sometimes on hard-to-access terrain.
"The beauty of them is it gives people the ability to do things they otherwise wouldn't be able to do," Fields said.
Many of the trails in the state's parks are already wide enough to accommodate the track chairs, as Oligmueller and his staff discovered while testing them.
"They fit on the trails," he said. "We went quite a ways throughout the park."
About five miles of Ponca State Park's trails are currently wheelchair accessible, he said. The track chairs open up the park's entire trail system to wheelchair users.
"We have 23 miles of hike and bike trails here in the park. These will be able to access all 23 of those miles," Oligmueller said.
The possibilities are endless, Fields and Oligmueller said. A track chair could allow a grandparent to go out on hiking trails with grandchildren. Instead of being driven around a park in a utility vehicle, the wheelchair user can gain independence and freedom to drive where he or she wants. It can make family gatherings or park programs more inclusive.
The feedback from users at events where the chairs were used this fall has been positive, Fields said. Depending on popularity and usage (and funding, of course), Fields could see the program expanding beyond eight chairs so they're more widely available to state park users.
"It definitely has room to grow," he said. "We'll see how it goes."
Lincoln-area residents who need a helping hand this holiday season
Lincoln Housing Authority
Contact Courtney at 402-434-5529 or email Courtney@l-housing.com
Sasha is a single mother of three girls and two boys, ages 3 through 14. Having completed schooling, she has worked hard to pay off student debt in hopes of becoming financially stable, but funds have been tight. She works full time. She says that even though it’s not always easy, she wouldn’t trade being a mother for the world. She would appreciate receiving socks, hats, gloves, and/or toiletries.
Jessica, whose daughter will soon be turning 2, is working full time, going to school and pursuing her CNA. She would appreciate winter coats for herself, large or XL, and her daughter, size 2T-3T; a winter hat and boots for her daughter, size 6 in toddler, and some groceries during the holiday season.
Kathy, a single mother of five children, ages 4-12, earned her GED and is working on an associate’s degree. She also picked up a job to help provide for her children during the holidays. Kathy is disabled, so things that may not seem difficult to most, can be extremely difficult for her. Kathy needs clothing for her children, a winter coat for herself, food for the holidays and possibly some toys.
Fresh Start
Contact Meg at Fresh Start at 402-475-7777 or megd@freshstarthome.org
Amy came to Fresh Start after leaving a domestic violence situation. She is rebuilding her life and recently started a full-time job. She would like gas cards to help her get to work. Amy loves cooking and would like a new set of pans and baking sheets for when she moves out of Fresh Start.
Sally resided at Fresh Start earlier this year. She successfully completed the program, moved into her own apartment, and is participating in community support services. She just welcomed her first child and is adjusting well to parenthood. She would like diapers, a new set of dishes, and Walmart cards to buy additional items for her family.
Patricia just graduated parole and is maintaining her sobriety. She is working full time and pursuing her GED. She would like grocery gift cards, a new bath towel set and new queen-size bedding for when she moves into her own apartment.
Linda recently moved out of Fresh Start and into her own apartment. She celebrated one year of sobriety in October. She is furnishing her new apartment and would like new pots and pans, a new set of glasses, and new silverware or cooking utensils.
Fresh Start, a transitional shelter for women who are experiencing homelessness, helps residents become self-sufficient by developing a goal plan that includes securing income, finding safe housing, and addressing health needs. They always need toilet paper, grocery and gas cards, cleaning supplies, feminine hygiene products and laundry detergent.
St. Monica's
Contact Melissa Aldrich at 402-441-3768 or melissa.aldrich@stmonicas.com
KristineÌýhas a daughter Zula, age 3, and is eight months pregnant with her second daughter. They’ve lived in a long-term residential treatment center since July. Kristine is graduating in February. She needs clothes for Zula (size 3T-4T) shoes (9T-10T), socks, hygiene products and drinking cups. Kristine needs diapers and wipes for the baby to come, infant clothing, hygiene products for baby and baby bottles.
Dawn, a single mom in treatment, and her 5-year-old son, Leo, recently lost his father and are trying to heal. They lost their home in March and will be starting over when Dawn graduates treatment at the end of the month. They’re getting an apartment and seeking a fresh start. Leo needs socks (size 7/8), shoes (13), markers and coloring books, drinking cups, hair and hygiene products, clothes (pants size 8, shirts 10/12, hats and gloves. He would also like a remote-controlled vehicle for Christmas.
Joanna Madrigal, 34, is a single mother of four: Isaiah, Leighlon, Loraly and Robbie (ages 16, 13, 12 & 10). Joanna has battled with addiction and trauma for over 15 years. Coming to Lincoln and entering a women’s long-term treatment facility has been a life-altering experience. The family could use winter clothing: Robbie (size 10/12 boys), Loraly (juniors S/M), Leighlon (youth L) and Isaiah (adults M).
Voices of Hope
Contact Yaquelin Cisneros at yaquelin@voicesofhopelincoln.org
Laura,Ìý32, and her four young children relocated to Lincoln after fleeing from sexual abuse. Laura does not have a support system in Lincoln. She spent her savings on relocating and is worried about providing Christmas gifts for her children. She needs store gift cards to buy gifts for her children along with gas gift cards to help stretch her paychecks as much as possible.
Sandra,Ìý27, was sexually assaulted by her landlord, forcing her to break her lease, seek a protection order, and try to heal from the trauma. Having had to search for a new place to live, she has spent her savings on a deposit and the first month’s rent. Sandra seeks help with household necessities such as laundry detergent, toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, dish soap, and cleaning products.
Scarlet,Ìý36, and her 4-year-old twins (a boy and a girl) recently left the home they shared with their Scarlet's ex-partner and abuser. Scarlet’s abuser ruined many of Scarlet’s and the twins’ belongings by pouring bleach on them before they left. Scarlet seeks support to replace items that have been ruined. The items requested include gift cards to buy bedding for her and the twins, winter clothing, and household items.
Victoria,Ìý25, left her abusive husband and applied for a protection order that was served. Victoria’s abuser continually violates the protection order and has been stalking her and leaving threatening objects on her porch. Victoria notifies the police, but he disappears before they arrive. Victoria needs security cameras for her home to capture the violations of the protection orders.
Cedars
Contact Mandy Suing at 402-437-8815 or asuing@cedarskids.org.
Logan,Ìý20, is experiencing homelessness and has had to couch-surf at friends’ houses just to have a safe place to spend the night. He had a difficult childhood, but he did maintain a small group of close friends who haveÌý supported him. Logan is also a father to a young daughter, but due to his homelessness, he does not get to spend as much time with her as he would like. Cedars has helped Logan find a safe place that will allow for his daughter to come stay with him at times. He would be grateful for cooking utensils, dishes, athletic clothing (adult size L or XL), and gift cards to Walmart and Best Buy.
MonicaÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýJulioÌýrecently immigrated to Nebraska from their home country with their two children, ages 2 years and 4 months. They are grateful to live in the U.S., but still face challenges while they adjust. Cedars has helped the family receive access to parenting resources, quality child care, and the essentials for their new home. The family would be grateful for any additional help around the holidays. They need a vacuum, pots and pans, queen-size bedding/comforter set and baby wipes.
AliciaÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýMorganÌýare providing supportive care in their home for two teenage girls who needed a safe and stable living environment. They also have three teenagers of their own. The teenage girls have been through experiences that would be difficult to navigate without supportive foster parents like Alicia and Morgan. CEDARS has connected them to community resources and provided them with basic necessities. This family would benefit from an air fryer, kitchen dish set (plates and bowls), and gift cards to grocery stores and coffee chains.
AstridÌýhas five children (ages 13, 10, 7, 5, and 2 months). She does not have any family in town and lacks a local support system. One of Astrid’s children has a developmental disability which requires additional care. Her three middle children are enrolled in a CEDARS Community Learning Center. CEDARS has continued to help the family by providing before- and after-school care, behavioral support, and clothing. This family would appreciate a vacuum, bakeware set, diapers (any size), art supplies, and school-age board games.
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Lancaster County Adult Drug Court
Contact Ashley at 531-207-5065 or aborchers@lancaster.ne.gov
BillÌýused the treatment tools from Drug Court to remain sober through some traumatic events. He is a father who could use help to buy gifts for his children, ages 10 to 16 (all boys).
Community CorrectionsÌýneeds self-care items for men and women entering its program, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and grocery gift cards.
The Bridge Behavioral Health
Contact Stacie at 402-477-3951 extension 106 or development@thebridgenebraska.org
Andrew,Ìý35, is a resilient soul battling addiction with unwavering determination. His path has been marked by struggles, but his strength in seeking recovery is truly inspiring. As he rebuilds his life, having access to clean, comfortable clothes can boost his self-esteem and help him take one more step toward his recovery. Andrew is a size XL and can use a new wardrobe including a winter coat, shirts, hoodie, pants, socks and underwear.
Jennifer,Ìý30, is seeking help for her prescription pill addiction. In her quest to build an addiction-free life, Jennifer has found solace and self-expression through art. She would love art supplies and adult coloring books to help fill the gaps between educational groups and therapy sessions.
HopeSpoke
Contact Suzy Thompson at 402-475-7666 or sthompson@hopespoke.org
Alex,Ìý5, sees a HopeSpoke mental health therapist at his elementary school. Mom works to care for Alex and his three older sisters, but the family can’t afford many basic needs; at school, Alex often reports that he didn’t have dinner the night before. Clothes (size 4T-5T, shoes size 12) and toys would brighten Alex’s holidays. He likes dinosaurs, Spiderman, cars, and books. The family also could use gift cards to Walmart for food, clothes, and to buy holiday gifts for his siblings. Contact HopeSpoke for specific needs for Alex’s mom and sisters.
BrothersÌýTom,Ìý13, andÌýJoe,Ìý12, both receive mental health therapy through HopeSpoke to deal with grief. Their mom died unexpectedly during COVID; Dad has remarried and there are five children in their blended household. Money is tight and food goes fast. The boys would love model paint sets, Minecraft and other Lego sets, and a family pass to Morrill Hall. Both boys wear men’s size XL and could use T-shirts, pants, sweatpants and hoodies. Their family also could use gift cards to grocery and discount stores. Other family members have needs as well; contact HopeSpoke for details.
SilasÌýhas graduated ahead of schedule from HopeSpoke’s therapeutic group home and will be living on his own for the first time. He turns 18 in December, has a job, and wants to go to college, saying that for the first time he feels hopeful about his future. Silas grew up in a chaotic home environment and has no family support, so anything to help him set up his new apartment would be appreciated, particularly gift cards for groceries and discount stores.
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Belmont Community Center
Contact Karen French at 402-477-8854 or at karen.french@belmontcommunitycenter.org
TheÌýDredge familyÌýhas spent a third of this year in and out of hospitals supporting their 4-year-old son who has a rare spinal condition. This family of five is in constant motion with two working parents, their 6- and 4-year-old sons, and a daughter, nearly 2. They spend a lot of time traveling to and from health care appointments for their son. Gift cards to Target, Walmart, grocery stores, or gas stations would help meet their needs and prepare for the holidays. Gift cards to restaurants or family-fun activities are also welcome as a way for them to spend quality family time.
Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach
Contact Leanne Pelser at Leanne.Pelser@MTKO.org or 402-817-0163
MaryÌýbecame a regular dining room guest after falling on hard times. She and her 10-year-old daughter recently moved into a new home. Money is short for the holidays. Mary’s daughter doesn’t want to ask for anything for Christmas so as to not burden her mom, but she could use black or navy-blue leggings for school (size 14) and a pair of crocs (women’s size 6). An art lover, Mary’s daughter could use a three-tiered rolling cart to hold art supplies. Mary’s daughter loves the Makit Takit Craft Studio. A gift certificate there would provide great quality time for both mother and daughter. Mary’s daughter also likes to play with makeup and have a spa day with her mom at home. Mary would be grateful for any gifts for her daughter for the holidays to make their first Christmas in their new home a merry one.
KennedyÌýand her 4-year-old son have been experiencing homelessness for almost a year. They recently moved into a new apartment. Kennedy would like to be able to decorate the house for her son for Christmas. The family needs a Christmas tree, lights and ornaments, a couple of candles, and a welcome sign for the front door of her new home. All white, all red, and all green strings of lights are preferred. Kennedy’s son loves all things Paw Patrol and superheroes. He needs winter clothes size 4/5 and a toddler bed and bedding.
JohnÌýis a devoted single father facing a challenging holiday season. He is the sole caregiver of his 13-year-old daughter,ÌýEmily. John's days are a juggling act between his full-time job and ensuring Emily's well-being. His work is not glamorous, but he takes pride in it as it puts food on the table and a roof over their heads. John often has to work long hours to make ends meet, which leaves little time for leisure, let alone holiday preparations. John is determined to make Emily's Christmas unforgettable. He searches for community programs and charities that can help with gifts, hoping to fulfill Emily's dreams. John also sacrifices his own needs and indulgences to set aside a small budget for the holiday season. He would love gift cards to make his daughter’s holiday wishes come true. Emily would love any Hello Kitty items, pajama pants (size M), body sprays and perfumes, and hoodies (size M).
Lutheran Family Services
Contact Deanna Borg at 402-968-6580 or deanna.borg@onelfs.org
Tina, a single mom, has been caring for two foster children, ages 5 and 8, without assistance for the past few years. After a difficult year that started with the death of her dad and included fighting an autoimmune disease, multiple surgeries and being unable to work for long periods of time, their family could use gas and grocery gift cards and the opportunity for youth activities through a membership to the YMCA or funds for dance classes.
AÌýgrandpaÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýgrandmaÌýwho have guardianship of three of their grandchildren recently took in two more little ones, ages 2 and 7. They need gift cards for food and gas, as well as hygiene care, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels.
AÌýgrandmotherÌýwho has guardianship of her granddaughters, ages 8 and 9, and is working toward adopting them could use some extra cheer. A recent foot injury has impacted her ability to work, and they are struggling with food, shelter and clothing. Gift cards for groceries, funds for rent, and clothing for the girls would be appreciated. The older granddaughter wears size 10/12 and a size 4Y shoe; the younger one wears size 7/8 and a 3Y shoe.
Katrina, 25, and her younger brotherÌýMichael, 10, lost their mom earlier this year and moved to Nebraska due to safety concerns in their previous location. With assistance from Lutheran Family Services, Katrina is working toward permanent guardianship of her brother and has secured safe, affordable, permanent housing. They would love a dresser, a queen-size bed, vacuum, electric dryer, kitchen table and chairs, sheets and towels, a coat rack, Christmas tree, paper products, cleaning supplies and funds for car repair.
AÌýgrandmotherÌýwho is caring for her grandson needs help after the loss of his mother in November. The grandson, age 11, could use clothes, winter boots and toys to play with his dogs. He wears a size M in men’s pants and shirts and men’s 5½ for winter boots. The grandmother needs utility help, grocery vouchers, cat/dog food and rental assistance.
Center For People In Need
Contact Krista at 402-476-4357 ext. 164 or kraastad@cfpin.org or Kathy at 402-476-4357 ext. 241 or knajjar@cfpin.org
SaraÌýis a college student finishing classes before entering the nursing program at SCC. She is a POP Scholarship recipient and will be the first in her family to graduate college. She works in a hospital part time. She has a son, 9, and will be moving into an apartment this month. She would love a desk and desk chair to accommodate her studies. She needs bath and kitchen towels, kitchen utensils, a set of dishes, vacuum and everyday household items. Her son needs a winter coat 14/16 (favorite color is blue), winter gloves, boots size 5 and a sled. He loves Harry Potter and Pokemon. They enjoy movies, Morrill Hall, the Children’s Museum, pizza and McDonald’s. Gift cards (gas, Walmart, Amazon) would help a lot.
TaraÌýis in the center's EduTech program, pursuing her data analytics certificate. Tara is a single mom with a 13-year-old son who has helped her set up and understand Google Docs and Google Drive. Tara has had health problems and was living in the City Mission, but they finally have their own place. Tara faces several upcoming surgeries and physical therapy. Her son is a swimmer and needs athletic clothing in small-medium men’s sizes. He would like a BlendJet2 with a USB, a large fluffy microfiber bath sheet, a small TV for his room to hook up a video game and a bike. Tara wants a booster cable that doesn’t require a second vehicle, in case she needs to jump-start her car, and gift cards to LaundryLand, a gas gift card, household cleaners and personal hygiene items.
BeckyÌýis in the new EduTech program, pursuing her project management certificate. A single mother of five, she would like candles or yarn for crocheting. She said her kids always need clothes and she isn’t able to give them many toys. She could use a gas gift card, household cleaners and hygiene items. The kids’ wish lists: girl (age 9), size 14/16, loves O.M.G. and L.O.L. dolls; girl (7), size 10/12, loves L.O.L. dolls; boy (4), size 7, loves PJ Masks character set; boy (2), size 3T, anything that involves music; boy (7 months), size 12 months, baby toys.
YWCA Lincoln
Contact Halea at 402-309-4153 or halea@ywcalincoln.org
Jackie, a mother of five, has been struggling since being sick. Her husband is not able to work due to having to care for the children. The children are an 8-year-old girl (shoes, size 1 youth; clothes, size 8-9), a 9-year-old girl (shoes 3 youth, clothes 10), a 10-year-old boy (shoes 5 youth, clothes M/10-12), an 11-year-old girl (shoes 5 youth, clothes youth S) and a 16-year-old girl (shoes 7.5 women’s, clothes women’s M/18). The children also need bedding comforters, pillows and pillow cases.
Sarah, a mother of three, has been struggling to make ends meet with one income. The children are a 15-year-old boy (shoe size 8 men’s, clothing size men’s M), a 13-year-old girl (shoes 6 youth, clothing 14-16) and a 12-year-old boy (shoes youth 7, clothing 10-12). They also need comforters for their bed, pillows and pillow cases, and the children need jeans, sweat pants and tops. The 13-year-old girl also likes makeup and the boys like cologne.
Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
Lila,Ìý31, is a single mother of four childrenÌý— two boys, ages 2 and 11; and two girls, ages 8 and 6. She recently left her husband because of an abusive relationship. She is trying to find a new place to live and will need household essentials such as bedding/ linens, kitchen supplies, and towels. The family could use gift cards to help with this process.ÌýPlease call or text Amity at LLCHD, 402-310-9145.
Ariel and her 2-year-old son, Adrian, live in a shelter. For now, Ariel can’t work and does not qualify for benefits. She uses the bus to go to free-food locations, but she would love to have fresh food to cook for Adrian. After a traumatic event, Ariel, who receives special education services, developed high anxiety. The family could use fresh food or Walmart gift cards. Adrian needs winter clothes and Ariel would love a vacuum, walker toy for Adrian, sensory toys, bed blankets, a pressure cooker, exercise items, and word-search books for adults. Sizes: Adrian winter clothes and snug-fit footed pajamas size 2T, shoes 6. Ariel S-M hoodie, M T-shirt/jogger pants, warm/snow boots size 7. Contact Dinorah at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
Stephanie has a son Dany, almost 3, and 8-month-old twins, Lucas and Noah. Only the twins qualify for benefits. The family could use fresh food or grocery store gift cards, blankets for mom and children, sippy cups, cookware set items, personal self-care items for mom and toys for the kids. Sizes: Winter clothes for Lucas and Noah, size 12 months, and size 3 shoes. Dany, 3T and size 7 shoes. Stephanie, M-L hoodies, L leggings and T-shirts, and size 6 shoes. Contact Dinorah Garcia at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
Sandy is 8 months pregnant and recently arrived in Lincoln, currently living with her older sister. Sandy’s due date is mid-December, and she is worried about having everything that her baby boy will need. Sandy could use a car seat, a crib or bassinet, a swing or bouncy seat, baby clothes, a diaper bag, and diapers. Sandy needs size-medium winter clothes, a coat, blankets and self-care products. She wears a size 7 shoe. Contact Dinorah at 402-432-0094 or dgarcia@lincoln.ne.gov.
The HUB Central Access Point for Young Adults
Contact Rose Hood-Buss at 402-471-8526 and rose@hublincoln.org or Lindsey Drake at ldrake@hublincoln.org
Becky,Ìý18, is a high school senior who is graduating a semester early and will be attending Southeast Community College in the spring. She has been supporting herself by working while also attending high school. She does not have family in the state and comes from a non-traditional support system. She lives with her sister, but will be required to move before the holidays. She would like some things to make her new place a home, clothing items and some hygiene products. Lotion, socks (small or medium) sweatpants (medium or large; preferably gray, black, or neutral colors), feminine hygiene products, a blanket, and school supplies (notebooks, colored highlighters, pens).
Georgia,Ìý21, is mom to a 5-year-old boy. Georgia has completed training to obtain her CNA, so she can find employment and housing, as they are currently homeless. She plans to return to school. She loves to write and wants to be a published author of books that can help and inspire people who are struggling. Georgia and her son would like gift cards to Target or Walmart to help with food and clothes, as well as books.
Augustine,Ìý18, has been navigating the GED path and is close to finishing. He has set goals to obtain his GED and go to trade school. He is moving into his own place and could use household items, cleaning supplies, a vacuum cleaner, laundry baskets and gift cards.
Gabby,Ìý19, is a high school senior who will graduate this year. She is also a mom to two little boys (ages 3 & 1) and works as much as she can. She juggles most of this on her own, with little support from her mom and little transportation She is moving into a place of her own and needs household items. The boys could use winter clothes, coats, hats, and gloves (3T & 18M). Gabby could also use winter clothes, a coat (size small), and Uber gift cards.
Keeley,Ìý17, recently moved to Lincoln and is a mom to 3-year-old twin boys. She is going to high school and working two jobs. She is staying with an aunt until she graduates. She plans to pursue a cosmetologist license along with a business degree, as she loves to do hair. She and the boys could benefit from winter clothes (4T & medium in women’s). She would like gift cards to Mid K Hair and Wigs and the boys would like Paw Patrol toys and books.
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Aging Partners
Mattie, 70, has breast cancer and several other chronic diseases. Living on a fixed income in west Lincoln, she must travel to medical appointments and to pick up prescriptions, driving an old car that has avoided major repairs. The air-conditioner broke this spring, so she drove all summer without it. She received some Casey’s gas cards from the American Cancer Society. Now that the seasons are changing, Mattie seeks donations to have her car heater/air conditioner fixed so she will be able to stay warm in the colder weather. Contact Velvet at 402-441-6109 or vhoskins@lincoln.ne.gov
Catholic Social Services
Contact Patty Lang at 402-327-6229 or plang@csshope.org or Mike Fitzgerald at 402-327-6203 or mfitzgerald@csshope.org
Man,Ìý36, a self-employed vending machine supplier, became severely ill this summer due to an autoimmune disorder. It caused antibodies to attack his kidneys, resulting in missed work and a loss of clients. He is still severely ill, but is attempting to work as much as he can. Doctors say it will be months before he might start to recover. His wife is disabled due to fibromyalgia. They have five children (ages 13, 9, 9, 8 and 3). Gift cards to Walmart and Target would help them prepare for the holidays, in addition to gift cards to restaurants or family-fun activities.
Woman,Ìý47, married with four children (ages 13,11,9 & 4), is employed, but has missed a lot of work due to a surgery that brought health issues and caused her to faint. Doctors will soon conduct more tests to see if she does not have more cysts or tumors. Her husband was working, but a stroke last year resulted in brain fogs, preventing him from working. Gift cards to Walmart, Target and any grocery stores are welcome, as are gift cards to restaurants or family-fun activities.
Woman, 37, married with two children (ages 15 and 8) and her husband are self-employed in the cleaning business, but mechanical problems with their vehicle make it difficult to fulfill appointments with clients. Her husband’s trip to the ER for lumbar issues resulted in hospital, doctor and radiology bills. They donate plasma to get extra income. Gift cards to Walmart, Target, and any grocery stores are welcome, as are gift cards to restaurants or family-fun activities.
TheÌýAl Zamel familyÌýarrived as refugees from Jordan in October. Their home country is Syria, but they have spent the last 10 years as refugees in Jordan.ÌýMohammadÌýand his wife have two boys and two girls between the ages of 3 and 11. One of their daughters has a condition that makes it hard for her to swallow, which has led to malnutrition over her lifetime. Unable to get help for her condition in Jordan, Mohammad hopes she can get the surgery she needs here in Nebraska. They are excited to make a home in Lincoln, but have to start from scratch. They would be thankful for cash assistance, as well as gift cards to Walmart and Target to buy household items.
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Families Inspiring Families
NatalieÌýhas lots of medical problems and lives with her parents so they can help with her two girls. She struggles with her own mental health and in trying to help a daughter dealing with her own mental health issues.ÌýHer oldest daughter is 13 (woman's size M, jeans 13/14 and shoes 8) and is into volleyball and teenage girl stuff. Her 6-year-old daughter wears 5T clothing and size 13 shoes and is into anything girlie.ÌýContact Mandi Solie at 402-875-1596
A single mom worked with Families Inspiring Families voluntarily in wanting a better relationship with her 6-year-old son. She completed an Active Parenting class, implemented the parenting strategies and is developing a stronger relationship. Mom pays out of pocket for his after-school child care and would appreciate help with boys size 7 clothes and action figure toys. Contact Doretta Brookins at 402-875-1595 or dbrookins@familiesinspiringfamilies.org