The Lincoln People’s City Mission plays a vital role in supporting the homeless community in Lincoln. In 2025 alone, it provided significant resources, including over 930,000 pounds of food, 125,000 nights of shelter, and 1 million pounds of clothing and household items. Richard Gervais, the director, emphasizes that the Mission has long focused on offering essential services such as housing, food, and medical care.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln students, like freshman architecture major Lyndsey Johnson, recently volunteered at the Mission during an Urban Plunge event. Volunteers also contribute to broader efforts by sending excess clothing to individuals in need abroad. Gervais highlights the importance of volunteers, stating that they add value and energy to the organization.
Despite challenges like capacity limits and minimal government funding, the Mission strives to assist all of Lincoln’s homeless population. Emerald Buhr, a manager, notes the critical role the Mission plays within the community. While it reuses resources to sustain its health center, it relies heavily on volunteers and donors.
The Mission aims to serve not only basic needs but also spiritual ones, reflected in its mission statement to advocate for the poor and homeless. Upcoming initiatives include a winter coat drive, and the Mission encourages community involvement through donations and volunteer opportunities, accessible via its website.
