For many young adults, turning 19 means leaning on family for help with groceries, rent, laundry, bills, transportation, school, work and all the everyday pieces of becoming independent. But for young adults aging out of foster care, that transition can look very different.
In Nebraska, youth age out of foster care when they turn 19 while still in state care and have not reached permanency through reunification, adoption, guardianship or placement with relatives. Without that permanent family support, many are suddenly expected to manage adulthood with limited resources and few safety nets.
That can make even basic needs feel overwhelming. Groceries, household supplies, transportation, rent, job schedules, school expenses and medical appointments can all become daily challenges. For young adults beginning life on their own, stability matters — and support from a caring community can make a real difference.
Dana Village was created to help provide that kind of support. Young adults aging out of foster care are not simply handed a set of keys and left to figure out adulthood on their own. Dana Village offers attainable housing along with wraparound support such as job training, therapy, financial education and other services that help young people build stability, confidence and independence.
The onsite food pantry is one important piece of that care. For young adults balancing rent, transportation, work, school and other basic expenses, access to pantry items can ease the pressure of choosing between groceries and other necessities. A stocked pantry offers more than food; it offers dignity, consistency and the reminder that they are not alone.
That is why First Lutheran’s Social Ministry Committee is hosting a food drive for Dana Village now through July 26. Donations will help stock the onsite food pantry and provide practical support for young adults as they take their next steps.
The next time you go to the grocery store, consider picking up a few extra pantry items for young adults at Dana Village. A simple donation can help stock the onsite food pantry and remind them they are supported by a caring community.
Items needed include assorted oatmeal, breakfast bars, baked beans, canned vegetables, canned chicken, canned tuna, chicken or beef broth, instant noodles, crackers, mac and cheese, pasta, pasta sauce, rice, trail mix, condensed soup, Hamburger Helper, Tuna Helper, bread and fruit cups.
Donations may be brought to the Gathering Area at church by July 26.
This is one simple, meaningful way we can surround young adults in our community with care, encouragement and hope.
Download the shopping list to bring with you to the grocery store!
