The growing need for food assistance in Sarpy County, Nebraska, has led NeighborGood pantry to announce plans for a significant expansion, aimed at better serving the area’s rapidly increasing population.
As the demand for food aid continues to climb, NeighborGood, a nonprofit serving Sarpy County and the City of Ralston, is set to relocate to a larger facility. The pantry’s move from its cramped 2,000-square-foot space in Papillion to a new 9,000-square-foot building will help meet the increasing need for food aid while improving overall services for residents.
Executive director Melissa Nelson shared that this move comes after a 38% rise in demand for food assistance over the past year. Originally, NeighborGood had planned to build a new space on land near its current location. However, when the 1712 Charleston Drive property became available, the pantry was able to expedite its plans, reducing its fundraising target by nearly half—from $6 million to $3.7 million.
“The new space is really a win-win for everybody,” Nelson explained, highlighting how the facility’s larger size will allow the pantry to better serve the growing population. The pantry, which has been in operation for over 15 years, has seen an increase in the number of families seeking assistance, driven in part by inflation and rising living costs.
Expanding Access and Improving Dignity in Food Aid Services
NeighborGood’s new facility will offer a more dignified experience for families seeking food assistance. Rather than receiving pre-bagged groceries, clients will be able to shop for their own food in a market-style setting. This new approach aims to minimize food waste by allowing families to choose items they will actually use, including fresh meat, hygiene products, and even pet food.
“We wanted to create an environment where people could have autonomy,” Nelson said. “It’s about giving people the dignity to select the food they need and want, especially because Sarpy County and Ralston have such a diverse population with varying dietary needs.”
This transition to a grocery store-like experience is expected to not only reduce waste but also increase satisfaction among the pantry’s clients. The change also aligns with NeighborGood’s mission to meet the growing needs of its community, especially in light of the area’s rapid development.
The Community’s Changing Needs Amid Rapid Growth
Sarpy County, one of the fastest-growing regions in Nebraska, is experiencing a significant demographic shift. The surge in new residents—many of whom are moving into high-end homes—has not translated into a decrease in food insecurity. In fact, Nelson explained that the pantry’s services are reaching people from all socioeconomic backgrounds, and its clients span across all ZIP codes in Sarpy County and Ralston.
“The rise in food insecurity in this area might seem surprising, especially with all the new, expensive homes going up, but the reality is that food insecurity is real and growing here,” Nelson said. “We are seeing more and more families coming to us for help, and we expect that trend to continue.”
The pantry’s expansion is not just about increasing space—it’s also about creating a more efficient system that can handle the increased volume of families relying on its services. As inflation continues to drive up food prices, many residents find themselves struggling to make ends meet. NeighborGood is one of the few local organizations able to provide consistent, reliable support for those facing food insecurity.
Since its rebranding from Tri-City Food Pantry to NeighborGood in 2022, the organization has been operated primarily by volunteers with some part-time staff. Currently, the pantry serves an average of 20 families each day during its four open days per week.
A Lifeline for Sarpy County’s Most Vulnerable
NeighborGood’s mission to serve the most vulnerable populations in Sarpy County is evident in its approach to food assistance. With plans for a larger facility, the pantry will be better positioned to handle not only an increase in clients but also the broader range of community needs. Beyond food, the pantry will offer residents access to other essential community resources, which will be housed within the same facility.
As the pantry prepares for its move in the spring of 2025, Nelson hopes that the expanded space and market-style shopping experience will help alleviate some of the stigma associated with food aid. “We want people to feel empowered,” she said. “It’s about giving them the resources they need to thrive, not just survive.”
With the population of Sarpy County continuing to rise, NeighborGood’s expansion is more than just a response to increased demand—it’s a critical step toward ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry, no matter their background or situation.
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