Lincoln, Neb. – On Wednesday, Oct. 1, Pinnacle Bank Arena became a hub of compassion as Project Connect Lincoln opened its doors to hundreds of residents seeking help. The event, organized by local nonprofits and volunteers, provided a one‑stop resource fair for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their homes.
Strong Community Turnout
Project Connect Volunteer Coordinator Chris Allende reported that 446 individuals pre‑registered for the day’s services, and walk‑ins continued to arrive throughout the afternoon. In total, more than 500 volunteers—including over 300 volunteer navigators—worked side‑by‑side to guide guests to the agencies that could best meet their needs.
Growing Need Highlighted by Recent Data
Allende pointed to the 2026 Point‑in‑Time Count, which showed a 10 % increase in homelessness compared with the 2025 count. “If that’s any determinant of the way that the numbers are going to go, we’re thinking that there’s going to be a lot more guests,” he said, underscoring the urgency of the community’s response.
Broad Range of Services
More than 100 service providers set up tables at the arena, offering everything from housing assistance and medical and dental care to haircuts, veterinary services for pets and employment resources. The employment lab alone doubled in size from last year, reflecting a renewed focus on helping guests secure stable jobs.
Basic Needs Remain Critical
Allende emphasized that while the event delivers long‑term solutions, the most immediate needs are often the simplest. “Things like hygiene kits and socks are huge. But quite frankly, things are just really expensive nowadays,” he said. “In our world, we have very limited housing opportunities, specifically affordable housing.”
Volunteer Impact and Gratitude
Volunteers described the day as both demanding and rewarding. Many guests stopped to thank the organizers, expressing relief that the community had “locked hands together” to support those who are struggling. Allende reflected, “The way we are able as a community to lock hands together and support folks that are struggling, I think is a very beautiful thing and very unique to Lincoln.”
Looking Ahead
Organizers view Project Connect as a model for how Lincoln can address homelessness through collaboration. By bringing together nonprofits, government agencies and private donors in a single location, the event demonstrates the power of local partnership to meet both immediate and long‑term needs. Allende and his team plan to build on this year’s success, expanding outreach and volunteer capacity for future fairs.
For residents interested in volunteering or learning more about the services offered, Project Connect maintains a website and social‑media channels where updates and future event dates are posted.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
