***For Immediate Release*** March 26, 2019 Contact: Omaid Zabih Federal Policy Director Nebraska Appleseed Phone: 402-438-8853 x128 Mobile: 605-310-4060 Email: ozabih@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Welcomes Senate Introduction of the Dream Act and the Secure Act of 2019 Long overdue legislation would provide stability for Nebraska families and communities Lincoln, NE – Today, Senators Dick Durbin and Lindsey Graham introduced the Dream… Read more →
Author: Nic Swiercek
RELEASE: Congress urged to protect Food Assistance for Nebraska veterans
***For Immediate Release*** November 8, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853, Ext. 119 Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Ahead of Veterans Day, Nebraska Advocates Urge Congress to Protect Food Assistance for Veterans Program helps nearly 1.4 million low-income veterans, including thousands in Nebraska LINCOLN — As the nation prepares to observe Veterans… Read more →
STATEMENT – Nebraska voters chose a healthier future by passing Initiative 427
***For Immediate Release*** November 6, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Office: (402) 438-8853, Ext. 119 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on voters passing Initiative 427 Nebraskans chose a healthier future for our hard-working people by expanding Medicaid LINCOLN — Tonight, Nebraska voters passed Initiative 427 to expand Medicaid and allow 90,000… Read more →
STATEMENT: Appleseed Stands in Solidarity with the Jewish Community, Urges leaders to end hateful speech that incites hate-fueled violence
***For Immediate Release*** October 29, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Stands in Solidarity with the Jewish Community Leaders must end hateful speech that incites hate-fueled violence LINCOLN – Monday, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement regarding this weekend’s horrific mass… Read more →
Economic study shows Initiative 427 would create jobs, boost economic activity in Nebraska
***For Immediate Release*** October 15, 2018 Contact, Kate Wolfe Insure The Good Life Communications Director (402) 601-7269 kate@insurethegoodlife.com Study Released Today Underscores the Economic Benefits of Medicaid Expansion With Three Weeks to Go Before Election Day, New Report Shows Initiative 427 Would Create Nearly 11,000 Jobs and Generate $1.3 Billion in Economic Activity LINCOLN – A new study released… Read more →
Edison Red Nest III: 2018 Roots of Justice Award
On October 11, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2018 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we are proud to introduce you to the honorees we are recognizing this year. The Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots… Read more →
Karen Bell-Dancy: 2018 Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award
On October 11, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2018 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we are proud to introduce you to the honorees we are recognizing this year. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, named… Read more →
New report shows expanding Medicaid would help rural Nebraska
Expanding Medicaid in Nebraska would be great news for Nebraska’s rural communities, according to a new report released today. The analysis by the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families and the North Carolina Rural Health Research Program found a higher percentage of people living in rural communities are uninsured, but would be eligible for health coverage if Nebraska voters… Read more →
RELEASE – White House proposes change to immigration rules, punishing aspiring U.S. citizens
***For Immediate Release*** September 22, 2018 Contact, Omaid Zabih Federal Policy Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 x128 Email: ozabih@neappleseed.org Statement on White House’s proposed changes to family work supports and temporary safety nets New restrictions will punish aspiring Americans for meeting their basic needs, endangers health of U.S. citizen children LINCOLN – Today, the Trump Administration announced… Read more →
RELEASE – State urged to increase outreach to seniors struggling with hunger
***For Immediate Release*** September 18, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org State urged to increase outreach to seniors struggling with hunger Nebraska seniors who are eligible for food assistance participate in rates below the national average LINCOLN — With Congress needing to pass the 2018 Farm Bill… Read more →
2018 Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award honoree – DiAnna Schimek
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize advocates who have made outstanding contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2018 Good Apple Awards on October 11th in Omaha. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes a Nebraskan who has made significant contributions to justice for all throughout her career. The award is given in the… Read more →
2018 Seeds of Justice Award honoree – Heaney Family Service & Justice Law Program
On October 11, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2018 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we are proud to introduce you to the honorees we are recognizing this year. The Seeds of Justice Award honors outstanding… Read more →
New report: Expanding Medicaid would boost key Nebraska industries
***For Immediate Release*** September 7, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Medicaid expansion would improve health of workers in vital industries New report illustrates Medicaid expansion would cover workers in occupations that are the foundation of Nebraska’s economy LINCOLN — The vast majority of Nebraskans in the coverage… Read more →
How you can help pass Initiative 427 to expand Medicaid in Nebraska
First of all, we want to say “thank you so much” for all of your hard work during the signature collection phase of the Insure the Good Life campaign to expand Medicaid in Nebraska! With help from volunteers like you, we were able to collect signatures from all 93 counties across Nebraska. Last week, the Secretary of State certified over 105,000 signatures – well over the… Read more →
STATEMENT – Secretary of State certifies petition count to let Nebraskans vote on expanding Medicaid
***For Immediate Release*** August 24, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Petition signature count certified to let Nebraskans vote on expanding Medicaid Secretary of State confirms ballot measure received well more than enough signatures to qualify for November election LINCOLN – Today, Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale confirmed the ballot… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska community leaders demand Congressional action in wake of devastating ICE raids
***For Immediate Release*** August 15, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska civic, community, business, faith leaders call for updated immigration laws Leaders demand Congressional action in wake of communities devastated by ICE raids Wednesday, more than 80 Nebraska civic, community, business, and faith leaders urged Nebraska’s members… Read more →
STATEMENT – O’Neill ICE Raids Impose Destruction and Fear on Peaceful Families
(Espanol abajo) ***For Immediate Release*** August 8, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org O’Neill ICE Raids Impose Destruction and Fear on Peaceful Families NE members of Congress now have a front-row seat to the damage caused by cruel anti-immigrant policies LINCOLN — Wednesday morning, reports indicated Immigration… Read more →
National Survey Finds 12 Percent of Nebraska Households Struggle to Afford Food
***For Immediate Release*** August 1, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org National Survey Finds 12 Percent of Nebraska Households Struggle to Afford Food New Data Underscores Need to Protect and Improve Federal Nutrition Programs LINCOLN — In every part of the United States, a large number of… Read more →
Nebraska Supreme Court ruling should help more young Nebraskans become healthy adults
Some big news came out from the Nebraska Supreme Court last week that we hope leads to more young Nebraskans staying in safe and permanent family situations. In the case In re Guardianship of Carlos D. the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that county courts can decide whether or not young immigrant Nebraskans are eligible to apply for what’s known as… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes newest team members
Recently, we were proud to welcome three new members to our staff. We’re proud to introduce you to these passionate advocates who will help advance our work to create a more-just society in Nebraska. Morgann Freeman – Development Associate Our new Development Associate, Morgann Freeman, has a background in activism, advocacy and community organizing in Omaha around issues ranging… Read more →
Meet our 2018 Summer Law Clerks and Interns
Each year, Appleseed is fortunate to work with bright, talented, and dedicated interns and law clerks who are passionate about fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Meet some of these outstanding young Nebraskans who dedicate their time to positive change in their communities. Special thanks to Immigrants & Communities intern Maret Wibel for putting together these stories. … Read more →
You gathered the signatures! What’s next?
As the last of the fireworks were going off on the Fourth of July, we began to finally get the full picture of the amazing thing you all helped accomplish. You signed your name. You gathered petition signatures from your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. Beginning in a chilly spring and continuing into the blistering summer, you helped give 90,000… Read more →
RELEASE – Medicaid Expansion supporters submit 133,000 petition signatures on Thursday
***For Immediate Release*** July 6, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Medicaid Expansion supporters submit 133,000 petition signatures on Thursday Nebraskans across the state call for chance to vote for healthier future in November LINCOLN — Today, supporters of the Insure The Good Life campaign submitted more… Read more →
Statement – Supreme Court upholding White House Muslim ban allows legalized discrimination that ignores American values
***For Immediate Release*** June 26, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Supreme Court decision on Trump v. Hawaii High court decision allows legalized discrimination that ignores American values LINCOLN — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in its decision in Trump v. Hawaii,… Read more →
Nebraskans condemn inhumane treatment of families, rally at upcoming public events
We all have looked on in horror at the recent images and sounds of children and families being torn apart and locked in cages after arriving in the U.S. to seek a safe home. Nebraskans are ready to stand together to denounce family imprisonment because families belong in communities, not cages. Many Nebraskans raised their voices in local newspapers to… Read more →
RELEASE – SNAP cuts proposed in Farm Bill would hurt thousands of Nebraska families
***For Immediate Release*** June 21, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org SNAP cuts in House Farm Bill will punish Nebraskans struggling with hunger Congressmen’s vote today will take food off the table for seniors, children, and those between jobs LINCOLN — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives… Read more →
STATEMENT – President’s Executive Order on Child Detention does nothing to fix self-imposed humanitarian crisis
***For Immediate Release*** June 20, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Statement on President’s Executive Order on Child Detention Locking up families who are seeking asylum does nothing to end humanitarian crisis the White House has chosen to create LINCOLN — Today, the President signed an executive order that… Read more →
STATEMENT: Senate Farm bill reaffirms bipartisan commitment to food security
***For Immediate Release*** June 13, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed\ Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Senate Farm Bill reaffirms important, bipartisan commitment to food assistance Bill protects SNAP, Nebraska Senators urged to oppose harmful amendments that would increase hunger LINCOLN — Wednesday, the Senate Agriculture Committee voted 20-1 to advance the Senate’s… Read more →
Nebraskans in the Coverage Gap – Without health coverage, Heather has to parent through pain
Any parent can tell you that having young children takes up most of your attention, and even on the best days, will require most of your energy. So every parent needs to be able to guard their health, not just for themselves, but to be at their best for their children as well. Unfortunately, like many Nebraska parents, Heather doesn’t… Read more →
RELEASE – Summer Food sites ensure Nebraska kids don’t go hungry when school lets out
***For Immediate Release*** June 6, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Summer Food sites ensure Nebraska kids don’t go hungry when school lets out Adequate meals in summer are essential to children’s health, learning retention LINCOLN — Thousands of children in Nebraska are food insecure and struggle to get… Read more →
Take Action – Tell Congress to put a stop to inhumane family separation
Nebraskans agree that strong, united families are the foundation of successful communities. And for generations, our immigration laws reflected those values. But now, cruel and inhumane new policies are threatening families who are seeking safety in the U.S. from danger. The White House has announced a new plan to separate children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border and warehouse kids… Read more →
Statement – Inhumane White House decision to tear apart families will do lasting, far-reaching damage
***For Immediate Release*** May 30, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Statement on Trump Administration policy of separating families seeking asylum Cruel, inhumane choice to tear children from parents will cause lasting trauma, violates American values of decency and humanity LINCOLN — Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed joined the… Read more →
Nebraskans In The Coverage Gap: Jennifer fighting uphill battle after on-the-job injury
No one should be devastated financially for suffering an on-the-job injury, but after Jennifer got hurt working in a hotel, she found that getting healthy enough to get back to work was harder than she ever could have imagined. The injury forced the Bellevue woman to lose her job, which made affording health coverage nearly impossible, and her applications for… Read more →
RELEASE – Appleseed, Nebraska workers oppose dangerous USDA plan to increase pork line speeds
***For Immediate Release*** May 9, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Advocates, Workers formally oppose dangerous USDA pork plan Increasing already high processing line speeds pose greater risk to food and worker safety LINCOLN — Last week, Nebraska Appleseed joined current and former Nebraska pork processing plant employees,… Read more →
STATEMENT – Ending Temporary Protected Status for Hondurans endangers long-time Nebraska families
***For Immediate Release*** May 4, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Statement on ending Temporary Protected Status for Hondurans Decision cruelly endangers lives of families and children who have long-standing ties to Nebraska communities LINCOLN — Friday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced it would end… Read more →
STATEMENT: Nebraska AG continues to needlessly target young Nebraskans and their families
***For Immediate Release*** May 2, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Attorney General continues to target valuable young Nebraskans and their families DACA a successful measure of security until Congress updates immigration laws LINCOLN — Monday, Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson attempted to justify his decision… Read more →
Nebraskans In The Coverage Gap: Darrell Allen Roth
Darrell Allen Roth, an Omaha native, is a familiar face in his neighborhood. Darrell has been working in the salvage business for over 20 years, and after learning the trade with a local company, he set out on his own in 2005. Since becoming self-employed, Darrell realized how expensive health insurance have gotten for those who need to purchase coverage… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska organizations applaud passage of predatory lending reform bill
***For Immediate Release*** April 18, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska organizations applaud passage of Predatory Lending Reform bill Law will be small step forward to curb abusive lending, but future reforms are also needed LINCOLN — Today Nebraska organizations applaud the Final Reading passage of payday lending reform… Read more →
Take Action: Stop food cuts in Farm Bill that would hurt vulnerable Nebraskans
Will you make a phone call today to protect the ability for tens of thousands of Nebraskans to put food on their table? Now is an important time for your Congressman to hear from you. Last week, the House Agriculture Committee proposed the 2018 Farm Bill, which put forward drastic cuts and harmful new restrictions to our country’s most-important food security program, the Supplemental… Read more →
Dreamers Speak Out
When the White House announced the elimination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on September 5th, 2017, Nebraskan DACA recipients felt concern, sadness, and uncertainty. In response, remarkable young people like Joseline, Armando, and Alejandra bravely shared their stories with their lawmakers and communities with the hope that their efforts would allow them to continue to live,… Read more →
RELEASE – SNAP cuts proposed in Farm Bill would hurt thousands of Nebraska families
***For Immediate Release*** April 12, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org SNAP cuts proposed in draft Farm Bill would hurt thousands of Nebraska families New restrictions on food assistance will take meals off the table, plunge more Nebraskans into poverty LINCOLN — The 2018 Farm Bill introduced today by the… Read more →
Taste of 27th Street the latest business tour to sample new flavors and build new friendships
Local business tours are an excellent way to introduce community members to the people behind the storefronts they pass every day. Through the door of each restaurant, market, insurance office, or repair shop, lies the stories of the people who work hard to serve the needs of the people in their towns. At “Taste of 27th Street,” on March 22,… Read more →
Nebraskans in the Coverage Gap: “Not having health insurance turns your life into a vicious cycle”
Marea Bishop vowed not to let her health problems define her. But that didn’t mean the single mother from Bellevue was immune from the harsh effects of being unable to afford health coverage. Marea told her story in an Omaha World-Herald piece, laying out how chronic health problems chipped away at her ability to work and eventually forced her to… Read more →
STATEMENT – Passing Child Welfare Reform bill LB 1078 is important step to curb abuse within foster care system
***For Immediate Release*** March 29, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on passage of Child Welfare Reform bill LB 1078 Bill takes important steps to curb abuse within foster care system and protect youth LINCOLN — Thursday, Nebraska Appleseed Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey released the following statement… Read more →
New Report: Tools available to help Nebraska Schools fight student hunger
***For Immediate Release*** March 8, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New Report: Tools available to help Nebraska Schools fight student hunger Data shows Nebraska lags in national school breakfast rankings, but some schools finding success fighting classroom hunger with innovative strategies LINCOLN — National data shows Nebraska falls behind… Read more →
Nebraskans demand Congress protect immigrant families, communities during nationwide day of action
***For Immediate Release*** March 5, 2018 Contact, Cooper Christiancy President, Define American-UNL Chapter Cell: (402) 419-6972 cochristiancy@gmail.com Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Cell: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraskans demand Congress protect immigrant families, communities during nationwide day of action As DACA deadline arrives, nationwide and statewide actions will urge Congress “Stop Playing Games” LINCOLN — On Monday, the day… Read more →
Terminal Building Fire Update: How to contact Appleseed
Appleseed’s physical offices are closed following a recent fire in the Terminal Building. Thankfully, none of our staff were injured, and our work to fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans will continue with limited interruption. However, it may take a little extra time for us to respond to you in the near future, and for that, we do… Read more →
Update after federal court ruling on DACA renewals
Late Tuesday a federal judge in California temporarily blocked President Trump’s efforts to end DACA renewals. However, nothing has been solved yet, and it’s important to understand we still need the DREAM Act. So keep calling Congress! The ruling instructs the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) to resume receiving DACA renewal applications, however it does not allow for new… Read more →
Appleseed responds to 2018 State of the State address
***For Immediate Release*** January 10, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould responds to State of the State address Further revenue cuts will worsen budget shortfall, focus must be on investing in healthy communities and educated workforce LINCOLN — Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed Executive… Read more →
Poets and Performers – We’re looking for you!
At Appleseed, we believe that every Nebraskan should have access to quality and affordable health care, and we are constantly looking for new and refreshing ways to engage community members in that fight. One of those ways is through poetry. Creative writing and performing can have a huge positive impact on people and communities. It can help organize people around… Read more →
Appleseed condemns decision to end protections for people from El Salvador
***For Immediate Release*** January 8, 2018 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on ending Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador Decision cruelly endangers lives of families and children who have long-standing ties to U.S. communities LINCOLN — Monday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced… Read more →
New research: Dream Act would have $247 Million economic impact for Nebraska
A new study released in December confirms passing the Dream Act of 2017 would be an enormous economic stimulus across Nebraska. According to new data compiled jointly by the University of Southern California’s Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration and the Center for American Progress, Nebraska would see an economic boost of more than $247 million. This is the… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on Congress’ tax shift bill
***For Immediate Release*** December 20, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Congress’ tax bill Bill endangers investments in health care, education, and other essential public systems LINCOLN — Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement in response to Congress passing… Read more →
STATEMENT: Ending protections for Haitians will put families in unnecessary danger
***For Immediate Release*** November 21, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on ending Temporary Protected Status for Haitians Decision cruelly endangers lives of families and children who bring value to U.S. communities LINCOLN — Monday night, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced it… Read more →
During Thanksgiving, NE organizations call for Congress not to weaken anti-hunger programs
***For Immediate Release*** November 20, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org This Thanksgiving, Nebraska organizations urge strengthening of programs that fight hunger SNAP cuts would deepen poverty for Nebraska children, families LINCOLN — With Nebraska’s food insecurity rate at nearly 12 percent, hundreds of thousands of Nebraska… Read more →
Tell Congress Stop cuts to Nebraska kids and working families
Things are moving fast in Congress, and we’re asking you to take action today to protect important investments that help Nebraska’s children and hard-working families meet their needs and get ahead. Just like your household budget reflects what you think is important to spend money on, our national budget shows what we as a country believe is important — our… Read more →
Roots of Justice Award – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Psi Chi Omega Chapter
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize advocates who have made outstanding contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2017 Good Apple Awards on October 19th in Omaha. The Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots advocates who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all and have helped build a stronger community. The… Read more →
The President’s move to end Cost-Sharing Reductions will raise Nebraskans’ health insurance costs
***For Immediate Release*** October 13, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on President’s decision to end Cost-Sharing Reductions Unnecessary move will destabilize the Marketplace and endanger Nebraskans LINCOLN — Last night, President Donald Trump announced the administration would end important payments to insurance companies that… Read more →
Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award – Amanda Gershon
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize phenomenal advocates who have made contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2017 Good Apple Awards: Root Down, Rise Up on October 19th in Omaha. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, named after Nebraska Appleseed’s founding executive director, recognizes young, emerging leaders who have a vision for the… Read more →
Immigrant Advocacy Organizations Launch “We Are All Dreamers” with U2’s Bono
OMAHA — A coalition of immigrant-serving organizations in Nebraska have partnered to launch “We Are All Dreamers,” a campaign created in response to President Trump’s September 5th decision to terminate the DACA program. The campaign – housed online and on social media platforms – was created to show support for “Dreamers,” immigrant youth eligible for the 2017 DREAM Act. We… Read more →
Nebraska advocacy groups applaud new payday lending reform rule
***For Immediate Release*** October 5, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New rule a good first step to protect Nebraskans against predatory lending CFPB rule makes progress, but Legislature still must pass true reform to end exploitative lending Today, a group of Nebraska advocacy organizations – Nebraska… Read more →
Seeds of Justice Award – Ross Pesek, J.D.
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize phenomenal advocates who have made contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2017 Good Apple Awards: Root Down, Rise Up on October 19th in Omaha. The Seeds of Justice Award recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding work in the field of public interest law. This year, Nebraska Appleseed has… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – You did it again!
In this month’s edition of Appleseed In Action: Senate ends latest attempt to repeal the ACA Let’s pass a clean Dream Act Inspector General report raises alarm in child welfare system Nebraskans celebrate National Welcoming Week 2017 Good Apple Awards Upcoming open enrollment period Senate ends latest attempt to repeal the ACA Your voices were heard again! On September 26,… Read more →
Roots of Justice Award – Define American Chapter at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize advocates who have made outstanding contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2017 Good Apple Awards on October 19th in Omaha. The Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots advocates who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all and have helped build a stronger community. This… Read more →
I Get to Come Home and So Should Everyone Else
Note: This is a guest post from Appleseed intern Vic Klafter. About 37 percent of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Queer) in Nebraska, even though LGBTQ youth are only about 3 percent of the population. Fifty percent of homeless youth were asked to leave their homes by a parent. Sixty percent were abused… Read more →
CBO score confirms Graham-Cassidy would harm Nebraskans’ health care
***For Immediate Release*** September 26, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Graham-Cassidy CBO score Analysis reveals bill would gut Medicaid, endanger coverage for millions of Americans LINCOLN — Monday evening, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released its analysis of the Graham-Cassidy Senate health… Read more →
Graham-Cassidy threatens coverage for thousands of Nebraskans like Genevieve
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Genevieve’s Story I am writing this as a Type 1 diabetic who works for Metropolitan Community College and Nebraska Writers Collective. I have part-time jobs in… Read more →
RELEASE – Child welfare advocates express alarm at Inspector General report
***For Immediate Release*** September 14, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Child advocates respond to troubling Inspector General report Continued failures to provide child welfare resources leads to more deadly outcomes LINCOLN – On Wednesday, the Office of Inspector General Office released a report concerning deeply troubling… Read more →
Nebraska Events to celebrate National Welcoming Week
National Welcoming Week, September 2017 The momentum in local communities is real! This annual event is a week when communities across the country and across Nebraska bring together immigrants, refugees, and native-born residents to raise awareness of the benefits of welcoming everyone. We invite you to join in one of these events or create your own! The Quilted Conscience… Read more →
Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award – Julie Kalkowski
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize advocates who have made outstanding contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2017 Good Apple Awards on October 19th in Omaha. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes a Nebraskan who has made significant contributions to justice for all throughout her career. The award is given in the… Read more →
Introducing 2017-18 Weitz Fellow Raul Noguera-McElroy
My name is Raul Noguera-McElroy and I am the new Weitz Fellow at Appleseed! I am a cross-program person working with the Child Welfare team on driver’s licenses for youth in foster care, working with the Field Team on Get Out the Vote (GOTV) work, and working on the new Collective Impact Lincoln program to engage Lincolnites on everyday issues.… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes attorney Billie Gallagher
Billie Gallagher’s first job as an attorney brings her back to her hometown, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to the Appleseed team. Billie, a Lincoln Southeast High School graduate, is our newest staff attorney in our Economic Justice program, where she will contribute her legal skills to pursue justice for all Nebraskans. She recently graduated from… Read more →
Take Action – We must stand with DREAMers now
On September 5, the Trump Administration announced that over the next six months it will end the successful Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that has allowed Nebraska to benefit from skills, talents, passions, and energy of over 3,000 hard-working young people. We know Nebraskans stand with DREAMers. We saw it today when nearly 500 of you stood in… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska civic leaders, organizations support DREAMers
***For Immediate Release*** September 5, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska civic leaders, organizations support DREAMers Leaders call for urgent Congressional action to protect hard-working young immigrant Nebraskans LINCOLN – Today, Nebraska civic, business, and faith leaders joined Nebraska DREAMers at a State Capitol press… Read more →
STATEMENT: Ending DACA will devastate families, communities, and economies
Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: 402-438-8853 Mobile: 402-840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Ending DACA will have devastating impact on Nebraska families, communities and economy Removing opportunity for hardworking young people only does harm to our state, nation LINCOLN – Today, the White House announced the elimination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, a decision that will… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes organizer Valeria Rodriguez
Valeria Rodriguez has walked in the shoes of many immigrant Nebraskans, and as Appleseed’s newest Field Organizer, she is looking forward to empowering leaders in communities across the state to work for positive change in their towns. “I am excited to join Nebraska Appleseed as a Field Organizer because I get the opportunity to work with six great communities to… Read more →
Lawsuit: Overcrowding in Nebraska’s Prisons Has Led to Constitutional Violations That Endanger the Health, Safety and Lives of Prisoners and Staff
CONTACT: Tyler Richard, ACLU of Nebraska, 402-476-8091 x104, trichard@aclunebraska.org Alexandra Ringe, 212-549-2582 (office) or 917-207-2290 (cell), aringe@aclu.org Michael Bien, Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld LLP, (415) 433-6830, mbien@rbgg.com Jeff Sheldon, Nebraska Appleseed, 402-438-8853, jsheldon@neappleseed.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 16, 2017 LINCOLN, Neb. – The ACLU of Nebraska, the ACLU National Prison Project, Nebraska Appleseed, the National Association of… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes new organizer Felipe Blanco
In July, Appleseed was pleased to welcome our newest field organizer, Felipe Blanco. Felipe comes to Appleseed with a wealth of experience in public policy and will work in our Health Care and Economic Justice programs, connecting with people in communities all across the state on ways they can create positive change for themselves and their neighbors. “I am excited… Read more →
Volunteer Spotlight – Sydney and Alexis canvas for positive change
Note: Part of fighting for positive change in our communities means getting to work with outstanding, like-minded volunteer partners who share our goal of expanding justice and opportunity in Nebraska. Periodically, we will feature individuals and organizations with whom we have been fortunate to work to build a brighter future in our state. This is a guest post by… Read more →
STATEMENT: Nebraska Attorney General continues to target young Nebraskans and their families
***For Immediate Release*** August 1, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Attorney General continues to target valuable young Nebraskans and their families DACA a necessary measure of security until Congress updates immigration laws LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson attempted to justify his decision… Read more →
STATEMENT: Appleseed applauds vote against stripping Nebraskans’ health insurance
***For Immediate Release*** July 28, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Senate Health Care Bill Senate wisely rejects bill to strip health insurance for thousands of Nebraskans who need it most LINCOLN — Early this morning the U.S. Senate voted down its latest… Read more →
Repealing ACA is a life-or-death matter for this Nebraska family
Note: We first heard Jessyca’s family’s story earlier this year. In January, she talked about how repealing the ACA would be incredibly dangerous for her family, specifically her children. She is one of thousands of worried Nebraska parents whose lives – and the lives of their children – are in the balance of Congress’ health care negotiations. Jessyca’s Story The… Read more →
STATEMENT: Senate vote puts thousands of Nebraskans’ coverage at risk
***For Immediate Release*** July 25, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Senate health care vote Senate vote is great risk to tens of thousands of Nebraskans’ health insurance LINCOLN — This afternoon, the U.S. Senate voted to begin debate on a bill that could… Read more →
Nebraska organizations urge House members to protect anti-hunger programs
There are hundreds of thousands of Nebraska families that struggle with hunger, and food security programs are some of the most-effective ways to make sure that every Nebraskan – children, seniors, veterans, and other hard-working people – are able to get the food they need. Friday, a group of 10 Nebraska organizations sent a letter to Nebraska’s three House members… Read more →
STATEMENT: Appleseed applauds introduction of bipartisan Senate DREAM Act
***For Immediate Release*** July 20, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on introduction of Senate’s Dream Act Bipartisan bill would provide long-overdue process for young Nebraska immigrants to become citizens LINCOLN — This morning, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R – South Carolina) and Dick… Read more →
STATEMENT: Repeal and Delay is irresponsible plan for Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** July 18, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Senate effort to repeal ACA with no replacement Move would throw insurance markets into chaos, force even more Nebraskans to lose coverage LINCOLN — This afternoon Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said… Read more →
Volunteer Spotlight – Meet Claudia Pech
Note: Part of fighting for positive change in our communities means getting to work with outstanding, like-minded volunteer partners who share our goal of expanding justice and opportunity in Nebraska. Periodically, we will feature individuals and organizations with whom we have been fortunate to work to build a brighter future in our state. This is a guest post by Appleseed… Read more →
STATEMENT – Updated Senate bill still forces millions to lose health insurance
***For Immediate Release*** July 13, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on changes to Senate Health Care Bill Cosmetic changes still will leave hundreds of thousands of Nebraskans uninsured LINCOLN — Today the U.S. Senate released an updated version of its bill to overhaul… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – A summer to speak up!
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – July 2017 In this June edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Tell our Senators no health care cuts Speak up to protect DREAMers Successful June with Urban Abbey Meet our 2017 summer interns and law clerks Save the Date: Good Apple Awards – October 19, 2017 Tell our Senators no health care cuts… Read more →
Meet our 2017 summer interns and law clerks
Note: Each year, Appleseed is fortunate to work with bright, talented, and dedicated interns and law clerks who are passionate about fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Meet some of these outstanding young Nebraskans who dedicate their time to positive change in their communities. Makayla Haussler Makayla is excited to return to Lincoln and to Appleseed, having interned… Read more →
Take Action: DREAMers under threat
Yesterday, Nebraska’s Attorney General, Doug Peterson, joined nine other state Attorneys General in a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions. The letter threatened to file a lawsuit to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program if the Trump Administration does not end the program within the next several months. The DACA program allows young immigrant Nebraskans known… Read more →
RELEASE: Appleseed Statement on Attorney General’s Call for End of DACA Program
Removing opportunity for hardworking young people only does harm to our state, nation. LINCOLN – Yesterday, Nebraska’s Attorney General, Doug Peterson, joined nine other state Attorneys General in a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions. The letter threatened to file a lawsuit to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program if the Administration does not end the program within… Read more →
RELEASE: CBO confirms BCRA devastating for thousands of Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** June 26, 2017 Contact, Molly McCleery Nebraska Appleseed Deputy Health Care Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Email: mmccleery@neappleseed.org CBO score confirms Senate health care bill devastating for Nebraska BCRA would cause millions of Americans to lose coverage LINCOLN — Monday, Nebraska Appleseed Health Care Director James Goddard issued the following statement on the Congressional Budget Office… Read more →
RELEASE: Nebraskans helped by Medicaid urge Senators against cuts
***For Immediate Release*** June 15, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraskans helped by Medicaid urge Senators against cuts Constituents share Medicaid success stories and tell Senators to protect health coverage LINCOLN — Thursday, Nebraskans who have been helped by Medicaid urged U.S. Senators to oppose any… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – June 2017 – Protect quality health coverage
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – June 2017 In this June edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Protect quality health coverage 2017 Nebraska Legislative Recap President’s budget harmful to Nebraska families Court victory for Nebraska foster youth June events at Urban Abbey Job Opening – Staff Attorney Tell our Senators to protect quality health coverage The numbers were as… Read more →
RELEASE: Congress’ health care changes devastating to rural Nebraska
***For Immediate Release*** June 7, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Cell: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Jordan Rasmussen Policy Associate, Center for Rural Affairs Office: (402) 687-2100, ext. 1032 Email: jordanr@cfra.org Congress’ Health Care Changes Would Be Devastating to Rural Nebraska Premium increases, Medicaid cuts would cause great harm in smaller communities LINCOLN… Read more →
Improving child welfare protections for transgender, gender-expansive and gender-nonconforming youth
Last month, leading national advocacy organizations Children’s Rights, Lambda Legal, and the Center for the Study of Social Policy published a study on transgender and nonbinary youth in the foster care system called Safe Havens: Closing the Gap Between Recommended Practice Reality for Transgender and Gender Expansive Youth in Out-Home Care. … Read more →
STATEMENT: CBO confirms AHCA devastating for Nebraskans’ health care
***For Immediate Release*** May 24, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org CBO score confirms House health care bill devastating for Nebraska AHCA would make health care unaffordable for millions more Americans LINCOLN — Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed Deputy Health Care Director Molly McCleery issued the following statement on… Read more →
STATEMENT: President’s budget proposal a harsh attack on Nebraska families
***For Immediate Release*** May 23, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org President’s budget proposal a harsh attack on Nebraska families Drastic cuts will harm low-income families, children, seniors, Nebraskans with disabilities LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on the President’s… Read more →
STATEMENT: Governor’s vetoes harm health and safety of vulnerable Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** May 17, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Statement on vote to override budget vetoes Votes risk harm to health and safety of vulnerable Nebraskans LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on the failure to override the Governor’s line-item… Read more →
STATEMENT: Legislature shows strong support for immigrant and refugee Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** May 15, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Legislature adopts resolutions supporting DREAMers and refugees Lawmakers recognize valuable contributions immigrants and refugees make to Nebraska LINCOLN — Today, the Legislature voted to adopt Legislative Resolutions 26 and 27. LR 26 stated the Legislature’s support for… Read more →
ACA lets Nebraska nurse get cancer treatment, afford coverage for her children
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Andrea’s Story I am a nurse and a single parent of three children over the age of 19, but under the age of 26. My children… Read more →
STATEMENT – Court ruling in Webb v. Phillips a victory for Nebraska foster youth
***For Immediate Release*** May 11, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Court ruling a victory for Nebraska youth formerly in foster care Judge rules young Nebraskan eligible for Medicaid coverage LINCOLN — Wednesday, Lancaster County District Court Judge Susan Strong ruled in favor of Azar Webb, a… Read more →
STATEMENT: AHCA puts Nebraskans’ health insurance in peril
***For Immediate Release*** May 4, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Communications Director Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on American Health Care Act House vote endangers health insurance for millions of Americans LINCOLN — Today the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the American Health Care Act (AHCA) despite it… Read more →
ACA helped Nebraskan find affordable coverage for diabetes treatment
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Sanel’s Story I am a full time student who immigrated to Lincoln in 2001 and has been here since. My health insurance plan accounts for me… Read more →
RELEASE – Over 200 Nebraska schools qualify to feed all students using Community Eligibility
La versión en español está abajo. ***For Immediate Release*** April 20, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org More than 200 Nebraska Schools Eligible for Community Eligibility Provision to Fight Hunger in the Classroom LINCOLN — Many more Nebraska schools will be eligible to serve more students free… Read more →
Legislative Update – April 17, 2017
This is a huge week for bills that have long-term impacts on Nebraska’s ability to fund important investments. We’re asking you to take action to protect investments in education, child welfare, and other big priorities for hard-working Nebraska families. Protect investments in the Good Life Friday, the Legislature is expected to debate a dangerous plan that gives a large tax… Read more →
RELEASE – Schools vie to feed more students in Better Breakfast Challenge
For Immediate Release April 17, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Schools vie to feed more students in Better Breakfast Challenge Contest will award cash prizes to western Nebraska schools that improve breakfast participation Elementary schools in more than a dozen communities in western Nebraska will have… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes child welfare attorney Amy Peters
Appleseed is excited to introduce our new staff attorney, Amy Peters, to our Child Welfare team! Amy, a former Appleseed law clerk, graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law and recently passed the Nebraska Bar Exam. At Appleseed, she is excited to put her passion for improving the lives of Nebraska youth in foster care to work. “I… Read more →
RELEASE – Governor’s cuts would lead to more deaths in child welfare system
For Immediate Release April 11, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Governor’s proposed cuts would lead to more deaths in child welfare system High caseloads and lack of family support will put even more kids’ lives at risk LINCOLN — Advocating for reform in the child welfare… Read more →
Legislative Update – April 10
There’s no easing into this week as two measures we’re focusing on are up for debate right away on Monday. Restoring the right to vote LB 75 – Introduced by Sen. Justin Wayne, this bill would end the two-year delay before Nebraskans are able to vote after completing their felony sentence or probation. The bill is on the agenda for… Read more →
Take Action – Tell Legislature to advance Medicaid expansion bill LB 441
Last week, you helped do something incredible. Thanks to your phone calls, your emails, and your decision to show up at town halls and support affordable health coverage, Congress has left the Affordable Care Act in place. This means millions of Americans – and thousands of Nebraskans – will be able to keep their health insurance. But we’ve still got… Read more →
RELEASE: Nebraska health care leaders urge Congress against Medicaid cuts
***For Immediate Release*** March 22, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska health care leaders urge Congress against Medicaid cuts House bill would result in drastic cuts to Medicaid, endangering thousands of Nebraskans Wednesday, more than 20 Nebraska health care providers, faith groups, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations… Read more →
Even as she worked to serve others, Rose struggled to get quality insurance prior to ACA
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Rose’s Story I am a 63-year-old woman who works for a non-profit organization, Volunteers of America – Western Nebraska. VOA-WN is a church of service,… Read more →
For young Nebraska women like Melanie, the ACA has been a game-changer
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Melanie’s Story I am 22 and a recent college graduate of Creighton University. I like to consider myself a lifelong Nebraskan, though I was born in… Read more →
STATEMENT: House bill would strip health care from thousands of Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** March 14, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on House health care bill CBO score confirms ACA replacement would have devastating effects on Nebraskans’ health care LINCOLN — Monday evening, the Congressional Budget Office released its score of the House of… Read more →
Legislative Update – March 13
Last week saw committee hearings on bill to improve health coverage and create better opportunities for youth in foster care. It also was the deadline for State Senators to designate their priority bills – which ensures the bills will be given floor debate if advanced out of committee. Health coverage for hard-working Nebraskans On March 8, Appleseed joined dozens… Read more →
ACA lets young Nebraskans like Dominic pursue career goals
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Dominic’s Story I am a lifelong Nebraskan and have prided myself on working for local organizations that are strongly committed to the community. I worked in… Read more →
STATEMENT – LB 441 would help hard-working Nebraskans get health insurance
***For Immediate Release*** March 8, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on LB 441 Bill is overdue measure to allow hard-working Nebraskans to get the health care they need LINCOLN — Today, the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee held a hearing for LB… Read more →
STATEMENT – House health care bill would strip coverage from Nebraskans who need it most
***For Immediate Release*** March 6, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on House Health Care Bill Potential cuts to care would harm tens of thousands of Nebraskans LINCOLN — Monday, the House of Representatives introduced a bill to radically change the American health care… Read more →
Statement on Executive Order halting Refugees
***For Immediate Release*** March 6, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Executive Order halting Refugees New order built on same destructive ideas that contradict Nebraskan and American values LINCOLN — Today, President Trump issued a new executive order placing a ban on the… Read more →
ACA lets Jeff stay covered while running his lawn care business
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Jeff’s Story I am a husband, parent, and lifelong Nebraskan. I grew up in a small town, and my wife and I decided to return to… Read more →
Nebraska Mom worries what repeal of ACA could mean for son’s coverage
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Erin’s Story My husband and I were born and raised in Nebraska. He owns a small business in Beatrice, and I work in post-secondary education. Our… Read more →
Without employer-provided insurance, Meg can afford Marketplace coverage for important care
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Meg’s story Born and raised in Nebraska, I was raised by a single mom. I paid out of pocket for my healthcare for a long time, and… Read more →
RELEASE – New report reveals payday lenders’ history of non-compliance with state law
***For Immediate Release*** February 21, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New report reveals history of non-compliance with state law by payday lenders With long record of violations, state must implement reforms for lenders LINCOLN — A new report released today by Nebraska Appleseed reveals a history of… Read more →
ACA let Crystal stay covered while she cares for aging parent
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Crystal S. I grew up in rural Nebraska and worked in nursing homes all my career. I have used the ACA tax credits since 2015, when… Read more →
Nebraska continues to rank near bottom of U.S. in School Breakfast
***For Immediate Release*** February 14, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska continues to rank near bottom of U.S. in School Breakfast State’s low participation in school breakfast means poorer outcomes for students, missed federal funding Despite a slight increase in participation, Nebraska still ranks near the bottom of… Read more →
ACA allowed aspiring Omaha teacher to get needed coverage
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. D.J.W. I have lived in Nebraska most of my life. I am currently working in the Omaha Public School system and pursuing my teaching credentials. I… Read more →
Omaha woman: “The only reason I’m healthy today” is because of the ACA
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Angie The only reason I’m healthy today is because I was finally able to be covered under the ACA. I was turned away for years for… Read more →
Young Mom can finally afford health coverage because of ACA
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Amber I’m a 30-year-old single mom of one son who is almost 7 years old. He is very active in sports and Boy Scouts, and… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes Gloria Kimbulu and Kristine Hull
In recent weeks, Appleseed proudly welcomed two new staff members to our team. We hope you spend a few minutes getting to know our new Director of Finance and Administration Kristine Hull and new Program Assistant Gloria Kimbulu. Gloria Kimbulu – Program Assistant “I am excited to join Appleseed because I am very passionate about social justice,” Gloria says, “and… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Executive Order halting Refugees
***For Immediate Release*** January 27, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Executive Order halting Refugees Turning away refugees prevents us from living up to the promise of America LINCOLN — Today, President Donald Trump signed an executive order regarding the long-standing American practice… Read more →
Omaha man can juggle jobs, school and stay covered thanks to the ACA
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Want to share your story with us? Tell us why the ACA matters to you at neappleseed.org/myhealthcare Brady I’m thankful for the Affordable Care Act because… Read more →
“100 Days of Justice” to unite Nebraskans to work for positive change
***For Immediate Release*** January 26, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org “100 Days of Justice” to unite Nebraskans to work for positive change Nebraskans energized to direct lawmakers toward policies that reflect Justice, Opportunity, and Humanity A new year has brought a renewed passion among Nebraskans to… Read more →
Health insurance through ACA allows Nebraska couple to run their small businesses
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Want to share your story with us? Tell us why the ACA matters to you at neappleseed.org/myhealthcare Peggy I have lived in Nebraska for the last 15… Read more →
ACA preventive care allowed Nebraska man to get diagnosis, early treatment for diabetes
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Vince Bogener My story begins with a routine check-up. I have insurance through my employer. Really good insurance, actually. But the ACA has still benefited me… Read more →
RELEASE – New Report: Improving Student Protections in For-Profit Schools
***For Immediate Release*** January 23, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New Report: Improving Student Protections in For-Profit Schools Nebraska can model other states in holding for-profit colleges accountable to students LINCOLN — Given the recent closures of several for-profit schools nationwide, now is the time to… Read more →
ACA helped young woman stay covered after discovering preexisting condition
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Libby Ferris I found out in the spring of 2014 that I have a blood clotting disorder. This means I qualify as having a pre-existing… Read more →
The ACA ensured this family could afford coverage, treatment after their daughter was raped
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. ***Be Aware: This story contains a description of sexual assault. It is told, and the survivor is named, with her permission. Jann Dappen My… Read more →
RELEASE: NE health care leaders tell Congress no ‘Repeal and Delay’
***For Immediate Release*** January 18, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska leaders urge Senators not to dismantle health insurance system Over 30 health care, business, community leaders warn that hundreds of thousands of Nebraskans could lose health care protections if ACA is repealed without replacement LINCOLN… Read more →
Because of ACA, young Nebraskan can afford coverage after childhood transplant
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Bryce Bryce is 24 years old and lives in Plattsmouth. He was born with a condition that caused him to need an intestinal transplant when he… Read more →
Nebraska woman could afford hospital stay thanks to ACA
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Miranda I got health insurance through the marketplace in 2015. I used my health insurance for standard things — getting a physical for the first time… Read more →
ACA allowed Omaha woman to be first in her family to graduate college
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Anna Mahoney I am a 29-year-old sales manager at a small business in Omaha. I have lived in Omaha my entire life. I have a preexisting… Read more →
ACA helps Nebraska man get health insurance despite preexisting condition
Note: We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of Nebraskans who wanted to tell us how the health insurance protections of the Affordable Care Act have improved their lives. This is one of those stories. Matt Mason Matt Mason is one of the thousands of Nebraskans whose ability to get health insurance is in danger if Congress repeals the Affordable Care… Read more →
RELEASE: Nebraskans support immigrants, refugees at Lincoln vigil
***For Immediate Release*** January 12, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org “Light The Future” community vigil unites 300 Nebraskans in support of immigrants, refugees Vigil powerfully demonstrates Nebraska values of united families, strong communities LINCOLN — Thursday night, a crowd of nearly 300 people withstood frigid temperatures to… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – January 2017
In this January edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Tell Congress to protect health care and immigrant Nebraskans 2017 Nebraska Legislature session A week to take action Job Opening – Child Welfare Staff Attorney Tell Congress to protect quality health insurance and valuable immigrant Nebraskans The new Congress is now in session, so now is a critical time for our Senators… Read more →
RELEASE: Over 60 Nebraska business, faith, civic organizations urge immigrant protections
***For Immediate Release*** January 10, 2017 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org More than 60 Nebraska leaders urge Congress to protect immigrants Statewide business, faith, civic leaders and organizations sign letter to Congress requesting bill to protect DACA youth and their families LINCOLN – Today, more than 60… Read more →
New Report: Opportunity to improve job training for hard-working Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** December 22, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New Report: Nebraska can improve job training for hard-working people Opportunities to invest in skills training would help families get ahead, boost economy LINCOLN — Helping hard-working families lift themselves out of poverty means making sure… Read more →
Nebraska Appleseed statement on BRIDGE Act
December 12, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed statement on BRIDGE Act U.S. Senate bill a welcome, but temporary solution for hard-working young Nebraskans On Friday, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (Illinois) and Sen. Lindsey Graham (South Carolina) introduced the “Bar Removal of Immigrants who Dream… Read more →
Post-Election Resource Guide for Immigrants, Refugees, DACAmented, and Advocates
This resource guide contains information for DACAmented, schools, churches and for people who would like to know how to help. Reporting hate incidents, scams, fraud, etc. Southern Poverty Law Center: Report a Hate Incident Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights- OCR’s mission is to ensure equal access to education and to promote educational excellence throughout the nation through vigorous… Read more →
Meet our Fall 2016 Interns and Clerks
Note: Each year, Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright and talented law clerks and interns who help our work for positive change. We’re proud to introduce you to the clerks and interns working with us this fall to fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Deanna “Dee” Hobbs – Healthcare Dee Hobbs is a senior… Read more →
Improved child care subsidies would strengthen support for working parents
Across the U.S., low-income families that receive child care subsidies are more likely to be employed, maintain work for longer periods of time and increase their annual earnings and financial resources. It’s a tool that has proven to be an enormous success to help families get ahead. Unfortunately, investment in child care subsidies has been lagging nationwide. Funding for child… Read more →
Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award – Kathy Bigsby Moore
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize phenomenal advocates who have made contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2016 Good Apple Awards on October 13 in Omaha. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes a Nebraskan who has made significant contributions to justice for all throughout his or her career. The award is given in the… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – October 2016
In this October edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Health care vigil for the Working Poor 2016 Good Apple Awards to honor outstanding advocates Get registered to vote Census: Nebraska struggling with poverty and uninsured rate Roots of Appleseed – Eric Hallstrom Appleseed in the News Health care vigil for the Working Poor On October 2, advocates like you gathered in… Read more →
Roots of Justice Award – Crete Welcoming Community
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize phenomenal advocates who have made contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2016 Good Apple Awards on October 13 in Omaha. This year, we present the Roots of Justice Award to the Crete Welcoming Community in honor of their outstanding welcoming and inclusion practices for recent immigrants and… Read more →
Seeds of Justice Award – ACLU of Nebraska
Nebraska Appleseed is proud to recognize phenomenal advocates who have made contributions to the fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2016 Good Apple Awards on October 13 in Omaha. This year, we present the Seeds of Justice Award for outstanding work in the field of public interest law to ACLU of Nebraska. Buy your tickets today and see ACLU of… Read more →
RELEASE – Census shows over 12 percent of Nebraskans in Poverty
***For Immediate Release*** September 15, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New data: Over 12 percent of Nebraskans still live in poverty Census shows high rates of poverty for children, minority populations LINCOLN — The percentage of Nebraskans living in poverty was not sharply reduced in 2015… Read more →
The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award – Meet Alejandra Ayotitla Cortez
Nebraska Appleseed is thrilled to honor a truly phenomenal young Nebraska leader with this year’s Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader award at the 2016 Good Apple Awards on October 13 in Omaha. Alejandra Ayotitla Cortez has already impacted the lives of hundreds of Nebraskans through her dedication to community and building the leadership of those around her. Currently a senior at University… Read more →
RELEASE – Census shows over 154,000 Nebraskans remain uninsured
***For Immediate Release*** September 13, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New Census data: 154,000 Nebraskans remain without Health Insurance Expanding Medicaid would further reduce uninsured population by 64 percent LINCOLN — The number of Nebraskans living without health insurance has declined by more than 50,000 over… Read more →
Announcing the 2016 Good Apple Awards Honorees
We are proud to announce the honorees for our 2016 Good Apple Awards: Something Called Progress! Each of these people, communities, and organizations exemplify what it means to stand up for justice in Nebraska. Stay tuned over the coming weeks for profiles about the accomplishments of each of this year’s honorees. Tickets for this year’s event are now available for… Read more →
Roots of Appleseed – Eric Hallstrom
Throughout our 20th Anniversary year in 2016, we are taking a look back at the influential people who helped Nebraska Appleseed grow into the advocacy organization we are today. These “Roots of Appleseed” helped shape our mission of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Read our prior entries in the Roots of Appleseed series: Milo Mumgaard Gretchen Obrist… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – September 2016
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – September 2016 Join us for the 2016 Good Apple Awards! Join us on Thursday, October 13, for the 2016 Good Apple Awards to honor folks who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all in Nebraska! Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom 4920 S 30th St, Omaha, NE 6pm-8pm Click here to… Read more →
“Diapers In Detention” calls for end of treating asylum-seeking mothers and children like criminals
People who come to the United States seeking safety from violence should not be treated as criminals. But, many people seeking asylum – including women with their young children – are being held in for-profit, jail-like facilities surrounded by walls that separate them from both safety and human dignity. On September 1, Nebraska faith and community leaders gathered in Omaha… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes Weitz Fellow Eleanor Dollear
Appleseed is proud to welcome Eleanor Dollear as Appleseed’s Weitz Fellow for 2016-17. Eleanor will work with our Economic Justice & Health Care Access programs. The fellowship is supported by the Weitz Family Foundation of Omaha and places recent Carleton College graduates with non-profits in Lincoln and Omaha for one-year fellowships. Eleanor is originally from Chicago and graduated from Carleton… Read more →
Mapping the Coverage Gap
Note: This is a joint blog by Brian Hanson, Senior Policy Associate at the Center For Rural Affairs, and Appleseed Health Care Staff Attorney Molly McCleery. There was much discussion last spring in Nebraska Legislature about whether we should find a way to help people in our state who fall into the health coverage gap to finally afford health… Read more →
Column: Let’s fix the path out of poverty
Today’s Omaha World-Herald features a column from our Executive Director Becky Gould on the 20th anniversary of a big change Congress made to the way the U.S. fights poverty for our country’s poorest working families with children. Starting in 1996, the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) restructured one of the country’s most important public assistance programs. This anniversary, Becky writes, is… Read more →
RELEASE – Schools encouraged to fight classroom hunger with Community Eligibility as students return
Schools encouraged to fight classroom hunger with Community Eligibility as students return Hunger advocates urge eligible schools to ensure all students are getting healthy meals As Nebraska children head back to school this month, hunger advocates urged eligible Nebraska schools to begin using a proven tool to ensure students are getting the healthy meals they need to learn and grow.… Read more →
Roots of Appleseed – Sue Ellen Wall
Throughout our 20th Anniversary year in 2016, we are taking a look back at the influential people who helped Nebraska Appleseed grow into the advocacy organization we are today. These “Roots of Appleseed” helped shape our mission of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Fighting in the courts on behalf of Nebraskans with low incomes wasn’t the… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska business leaders call for new federal immigration laws
For Immediate Release August 3, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Reason for Reform Campaign Highlights New Data Showing Economic Contributions of Immigrant Nebraskans Local leaders call for common-sense immigration laws in nationwide campaign launch LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska business, faith, and community leaders came together to showcase new… Read more →
Supreme Court deadlock endangers unity of thousands of Nebraska families
Families and advocates vow to keep fighting in face of continued limbo for DAPA program Today, the U.S. Supreme Court announced a 4-4 ruling in United States v. Texas, a case regarding President Obama’s temporary administrative relief programs to keep immigrant families together. The ruling affirms the Fifth Circuit Court’s decision to uphold the preliminary injunction against the two programs… Read more →
Report: More Nebraska children facing hunger in Summer
***For Immediate Release*** June 21, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska falls to 46th nationally in summer meals participation As number of summer food sites drop, more Nebraska children face hunger LINCOLN — Nebraska fell in the national rankings when it comes to ensuring children from low-income… Read more →
Harvest Public Media series details dangerous slaughterhouse conditions
This week, Harvest Public Media produced a series on the brutally dangerous working conditions faced by workers in meatpacking and poultry plants called “Dangerous Jobs, Cheap Meat.” This series does an excellent job highlighting the high rate of crippling, permanent injuries these workers are exposed to — as well as a lack of accountability for the plants who continue to… Read more →
Meet our 2016 Summer Law Clerks and Interns
Note: Each year, Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright and talented law clerks and interns who help our work for positive change. We’re proud to introduce you to the clerks and interns working with us this summer to fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Victoria Villota – Immigrants & Communities Victoria Villota is a… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – June 2016 News & Events
In this June edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Thank you for your giving day generosity! Appleseed celebrates 20th Anniversary New attention to high injury rates in meat and poultry plants Fight for consumer protections in Kansas City First Lincoln Unites! festival celebrates strength of diversity Thank you for your giving day generosity! We were awed by your incredible generosity on… Read more →
Roots of Appleseed – Norm Pflanz
Note: Throughout our 20th Anniversary year in 2016, we will be taking a look back at the influential people who helped Nebraska Appleseed grow into the advocacy organization we are today. These “Roots of Appleseed” helped shape our mission of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Fighting for human rights has taken Norm Pflanz around the world,… Read more →
RELEASE – Government report confirms high injury rates in meat and poultry plants
***For Immediate Release*** May 25, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Government report confirms high injury rates in meat and poultry plants Workers denied treatment, are punished for seeking medical care for chronic, crippling injuries LINCOLN – For more than a decade, medical studies and reports have proven… Read more →
More states embracing Medicaid expansion to strengthen economy
Over the last several years, a majority of states – currently 32 and the District of Columbia – have embraced solutions to allow working people with low incomes to afford vital health insurance through Medicaid expansion. For years, Appleseed and many other partners have strongly advocated for Nebraska to do the same because Medicaid expansion is a proven solution to… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska Appleseed celebrates 20 years fighting for justice
***For Immediate Release*** May 2, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Celebrates 20 Years Fighting for Justice and Opportunity Anniversary Celebration honors key partners, advocates on May 4 LINCOLN — On Wednesday, May 4, Nebraska Appleseed will celebrate two decades of social justice advocacy at a… Read more →
Growing Good Award – Woods Charitable Fund
It would be impossible for organizations like Nebraska Appleseed to do our work and fight for positive change in our state without support from people and organizations who share our values of justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. From our earliest days, Woods Charitable Fund has been a constant ally and partner, providing Appleseed with invaluable financial support that has… Read more →
Over 100 Nebraska schools eligible for effective tool to feed students in 2016-17
***For Immediate Release*** April 28, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org More than 100 Nebraska Schools Eligible for Community Eligibility Provision to Fight Hunger in the Classroom LINCOLN — Recently, the Nebraska Department of Education released information showing 104 schools in Nebraska will be eligible to serve more free… Read more →
Roots of Appleseed – Gretchen Obrist
Note: Throughout our 20th Anniversary year in 2016, we will be taking a look back at the influential people who helped Nebraska Appleseed grow into the advocacy organization we are today. These “Roots of Appleseed” helped shape our mission of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. When Nebraska Appleseed’s earliest advocacy programs were beginning to take shape,… Read more →
STATEMENT – Appleseed praises Legislature vote to override veto of LB 947
***For Immediate Release*** April 20, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on vote to Override veto of LB 947 Vote allows Nebraska economy, communities to benefit from hard-working young Nebraskans LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on the Legislature’s vote… Read more →
RELEASE – Supreme Court case argued Monday impacts thousands of Nebraska families
***For Immediate Release*** April 18, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Supreme Court hears Arguments in Administrative Relief Case U.S. v. Texas decision will impact safety, unity of thousands of Nebraska families LINCOLN – Today, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in United States v. Texas,… Read more →
TAKE ACTION – Urge your State Senator to override veto of DREAMers professional license bill
Friday, Governor Ricketts announced he had vetoed LB 947, the bill that would ensure hard-working young immigrant Nebraskans can obtain their professional licenses and fully contribute their skills to Nebraska’s future. We are deeply disappointed in the Governor’s decision, which lets the skills and talents of thousands of hard-working, work-authorized young Nebraskans go to waste. But there’s still time for… Read more →
Statement on Governor Ricketts veto of LB 947
***For Immediate Release*** April 15, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Governor’s veto of LB 947 Needless veto wastes skills, talent of thousands of hard-working young Nebraskans LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on Governor Ricketts’ veto… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on Legislature passing LB 947
***For Immediate Release*** April 13, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Legislature passing LB 947 Bill will allow Nebraska to gain much from the skills and talents in our state Today, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the following statement on the… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes Development Associate Emma Rasmussen
There has always been power in amplifying the individual voice of those who often go unheard, and that is what motivates Appleseed’s new Development Associate Emma Rasmussen. Emma is an Omaha native and a 2015 graduate of Creighton University, where she developed a plan to use her Theatre major for a larger purpose – using the storytelling power of the… Read more →
STATEMENT – Appleseed applauds vote moving LB 947 to Final Reading
***For Immediate Release*** April 7, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on LB 947 Debate Advancing the bill to Final Reading puts us one step closer to fully utilizing the skills and talents in our state Today, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the… Read more →
New report shows Nebraska lagging nationally in helping kids get meals at school
***For Immediate Release*** April 7, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org New report shows Nebraska lagging nationally in helping kids get meals at school Nebraska ranked nearly last in using Community Eligibility Provision Despite a significant nationwide increase in the number of high-poverty schools helping feed students with… Read more →
Meet Appleseed’s Spring 2016 Interns
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright and talented interns and law clerks who are passionate about fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. We’re pleased to introduce you to our Spring 2016 interns. Special thanks to intern Megan Birman for compiling these stories. Appleseed currently is looking for interns and law clerks… Read more →
Statement on Legislature vote to bracket LB 1032
***For Immediate Release*** March 29, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on LB 1032 Debate Legislature again fails 97,000 uninsured Nebraskans who need path to affordable health coverage Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on the Legislature’s vote not to advance… Read more →
Roots of Appleseed – Milo Mumgaard
Note: Throughout our 20th Anniversary year in 2016, we will be taking a look back at the influential people who helped Nebraska Appleseed grow into the advocacy organization we are today. These “Roots of Appleseed” helped shape our mission of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. The roots of Nebraska Appleseed were first planted in an unlikely… Read more →
RELEASE – High rate of meatpacking worker injuries lead to new enforcement efforts
***For Immediate Release*** March 21, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org High rate of meatpacking worker injuries lead to new OSHA education, enforcement efforts New program to focus on reducing unsafe conditions for workers LINCOLN – Workers in meatpacking and poultry plants continue to work in some of… Read more →
RELEASE: Over 87,000 Nebraskans covered through ACA Marketplace in 3rd enrollment period
***For Immediate Release*** March 15, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Over 87,000 Nebraskans newly insured through Health Insurance Marketplace 88 percent of enrollees received tax credits to reduce cost of plans LINCOLN — Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced more than 87,000… Read more →
RELEASE – Appleseed joins Supreme Court amicus brief in deferred action case
***For Immediate Release*** March 9, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed joins amicus brief in Supreme Court deferred action case More than 300 organizations urge Supreme Court to lift injunction in case of U.S. v. Texas LINCOLN – Today, Nebraska Appleseed signed onto an amicus brief… Read more →
Making the Connections: Social Workers and Policy Advocacy
This is a guest blog post from Appleseed child welfare intern A.J. Miller. March is Social Work Month and I am a social worker. When most people hear that, they ask me about direct service. “So are you a therapist?” “Do you work for Child Protective Services?” “My dad’s a social worker at the hospital. Are you a caseworker,… Read more →
RELEASE – Settlement agreement reached in class-action food assistance lawsuit
***For Immediate Release*** March 4, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Russ Reno Public Information Officer, DHHS Office: (402) 471-8287 Russ.Reno@nebraska.gov Proposed settlement will help Nebraska families eligible for food assistance Agreement would end lawsuit regarding delays in administering SNAP LINCOLN — An agreement recently was reached between the Nebraska… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on LB 1032 Fiscal Note
For Immediate Release February 24, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853, ext. 119 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Statement on Legislative Fiscal Office Fiscal Note for LB 1032 LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the release of the latest fiscal note for LB 1032, the Transitional… Read more →
Nebraska ranked nearly last in School Breakfast participation
***For Immediate Release*** February 17, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska ranked nearly last in U.S. in School Breakfast Participation State scores 49th in helping qualified kids start the day with a healthy meal at school LINCOLN — Nebraska ranked nearly last in the country… Read more →
Hearing for new health coverage bill draws dozens of supporters
Supporters packed a hearing room at the State Capitol on February 10 for a hearing on LB 1032, the Transitional Health Insurance Program (T-HIP) Act. The new bill, introduced by State Senator John McCollister (LD-20, Omaha), is a new, bipartisan plan to help nearly 77,000 uninsured Nebraskans afford the essential health coverage they need. It also would allow our state… Read more →
Statement – LB 1032 creates path to affordable health coverage for 77,000 Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** February 10, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement supporting Transitional Health Insurance Program Act LB 1032 would create path to affordable health insurance for 77,000 uninsured Nebraskans LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement in support… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on DHHS fiscal analysis of LB 1032
Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the Department of Health and Human Services’ fiscal analysis of LB 1032, the Transitional Health Insurance Program Act. “We have seen these kinds of 11th-hour, taxpayer commissioned reports before from the Department. At the end of the day, what matters is what the Legislative Fiscal Office projects, and that analysis… Read more →
Meet three new members of Appleseed family
Recently, Appleseed added three new members to our staff. We wanted to introduce you to these hard-working advocates who are helping our fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Elizabeth Hutchison – Executive Assistant In December, Elizabeth Hutchison joined Appleseed as our executive assistant. She previously worked in communications for Union Pacific. A Lincoln native, Elizabeth said she’s… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska Strengthening Families Act would remove barriers for foster youth
***For Immediate Release*** January 21, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Strengthening Families Act, LB 746, set for Thursday hearing Bill will better allow “kids to be kids” by removing barriers to important developmental activities LINCOLN — Child welfare advocates, young people with experience in foster care… Read more →
Statement on LB 1032, the Transitional Health Insurance Program Act
***For Immediate Release*** January 19, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Statement in Support of Transitional Health Insurance Program LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on LB 1032, the Transitional Health Insurance Program Act, introduced today by State Senator John McCollister.… Read more →
Nebraskans celebrate introduction of new Transitional Health Insurance Program
Plan would return Nebraska tax dollars to the state for private health coverage for 77,000 uninsured Nebraskans Today, a bipartisan group of State Senators unveiled a new health coverage bill that would create a pathway to affordable health coverage desperately needed by 77,000 uninsured Nebraskans who currently cannot afford insurance. The plan, called the “Transitional Health Insurance Program,” or T-HIP,… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on 2016 State of the State Address
***For Immediate Release*** January 14, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed issues response to 2016 State of the State Address Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State Address. “In his State of the… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraskans Call on President Obama to End Deportation Raids
***For Immediate Release*** January 13, 2016 Contact: Charles Shane Ellison, Justice for Our Neighbors – Nebraska (402) 898-1349 charles@jfon-ne.org Jeff Sheldon, Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraskans Call on President Obama to End Deportation Raids Groups condemn raids on vulnerable Central American families As President Obama visits Nebraska today, Nebraska… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – January 2016
In this edition of “Appleseed in Action”: 2016 Legislative session will tackle big issues Press conference on health coverage for all Nebraskans New report calls for increase in education in prisons Appleseed urges investigation of for-profit colleges “2016 in 2016” health coverage campaign 2016 Nebraska Legislative session to tackle big issues The 2016 Nebraska Legislative session began on Wednesday, January… Read more →
Statement on introduction of Nebraska Strengthening Families Act
For Immediate Release January 6, 2016 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on LB 746, the Nebraska Strengthening Families Act New bill will implement a federal law that clears barriers for foster youth to have important developmental experiences LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey… Read more →
New report calls for study of Nebraska’s for-profit Colleges
For Immediate Release December 28, 2015 Contact, James Goddard Economic Justice Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 570-9462 (cell) jgoddard@neappleseed.org New report calls for study of Nebraska’s for-profit colleges High student debt, default rates, and limited performance measures warrant Legislative inquiry LINCOLN — A new report released today by Nebraska Appleseed reveals concerning outcomes for Nebraska’s for-profit colleges… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – December 2015
In this December edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Nebraskans urge leaders to welcome Syrian refugees Join the Insure the Good Life campaign Tell large chicken companies workers deserve to be safe DAPA/DACA court decision continues to harm Nebraska families Double your donation to Appleseed Nebraskans urge leaders to welcome Syrian refugees In recent weeks, a national conversation was sparked around… Read more →
RELEASE – New report recommends increasing access to education programs in Nebraska prisons
For Immediate Release December 2, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org New report recommends increasing access to education programs in Nebraska prisons Increased access to education will reduce recidivism, lead to new job opportunities after incarceration LINCOLN — Education is essential not just for the individual who… Read more →
RELEASE – Faith and community organizations’ letter to Gov. Ricketts urges compassion for refugees
***For Immediate Release*** November 24, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Faith and community organizations send letter to Gov. Ricketts urging compassion for Refugees Letter asks Governor to rescind request not to settle Syrian refugees in Nebraska LINCOLN – Today, a group of 31 Nebraska community and faith… Read more →
RELEASE – Nearing Thanksgiving, poultry workers, advocates demand safer work conditions
For Immediate Release November 19, 2015 Contact: Jeff Sheldon Communications Director Nebraska Appleseed Office: 402-438-8853 Mobile: 402-840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Thanksgiving places the Human Cost of our food Front and Center Poultry and meat workers call for safe working conditions, fair wages, and increased worker voice As millions of Americans sit down for their Thanksgiving meal next week, most don’t think about… Read more →
Normalcy for LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care
This post is from Appleseed Child Welfare intern Skyler May. In the past few months, Nebraska Appleseed has written extensively about the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act (or “SFA”) and the recently released report, “Letting Kids Be Kids: Nebraska’s Implementation of the Strengthening Families Act” which includes implementation recommendations from more than 300 stakeholders and young people.… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on re-settlement of Syrian refugees
***For Immediate Release*** November 17, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 840-7289 (cell) jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Re-Settlement of Syrian Refugees Nebraska must live up to values of humanity, State has role to play in refugee crisis LINCOLN — Tuesday, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser released the following… Read more →
Shocking safety violations in pork plant show dangers of brutally fast line speeds
Yesterday, video evidence surfaced of shocking safety violations at a pork plant in Minnesota that supplies Hormel, the nation’s largest pork company that also operates a large plant in Fremont, Nebraska. The conditions exposed by the advocacy group Compassion Over Killing constitute extreme dangers to food and workers’ safety as well as grotesque cases of animal cruelty. You can view… Read more →
RELEASE – Court decision continues to harm Nebraska families and communities
***For Immediate Release*** November 10, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Circuit Court of Appeals decision continues to harm Nebraska families and communities Court ruling out-of-step with past legal precedents. Supreme Court appeal expected. LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the following… Read more →
RELEASE – New report exposes widespread worker abuse in poultry plants
***For Immediate Release*** October 27, 2015 Contact: Kria Sakakeeny, Oxfam America 617-517-9428 (office) 401-359-2219 (cell) ksakakeeny@oxfamamerica.org Darcy Tromanhauser Immigrants & Communities Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 (office) (402) 803-0382 (cell) dtromanhauser@neappleseed.org New Campaign Exposes the Human Cost of the Chicken on Our Plates Oxfam America highlights worker abuses and calls on top companies to publicly commit to… Read more →
2015 Good Apple Awards honors outstanding Nebraska advocates
The energy in the room was undeniable on October 22 when Nebraska Appleseed hosted the 2015 Good Apple Awards, our annual awards dinner where we thank the many supporters and allies who stood up for justice alongside of us over the past year and give special honor to advocates who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all… Read more →
RELEASE – Child welfare stakeholder group releases report on improving Normalcy for youth in Foster Care
***For Immediate Release*** October 22, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Child welfare group releases new report on Normalcy for foster youth Stakeholders release report in conjunction with interim study on implementing Strengthening Families Act LINCOLN — Thursday, a group of Nebraska child welfare stakeholders released a new… Read more →
Meet the 2015 Good Apple Awards honorees – Frank LaMere
On October 22, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2015 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we will be proud to introduce you to the honorees we are recognizing this year. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award… Read more →
Meet the 2015 Good Apple Awards Honorees – Unity In Action
On October 22, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2015 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we will introduce you to the inspiring honorees we are recognizing this year. The Roots of Justice Award goes to grassroots… Read more →
Every Nebraska vote matters
Note: This is a guest post from Appleseed intern Lee Kreimer. As a 22-year-old college student, I can’t tell you how many times I have been informed of my naivety and my wishful thinking about the importance of voting. “It does nothing.” “My vote won’t matter anyway.” Or, my favorite response: “Why should I give my opinion about politics? The… Read more →
Meet our 2015 Good Apple Awards Honorees – State Senator Sara Howard
On October 22, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2015 Good Apple Awards in Omaha. In the days leading up to the Good Apple Awards, we will be proud to introduce you to the honorees we are recognizing this year. The Milo Mumgard Emerging Leader Award is… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – October 2015
In this October edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Nebraskans celebrate National Welcoming Week More than 220,000 Nebraskans in poverty in 2014 Reserve your tickets to the Good Apple Awards Appleseed welcomes new staff Join the Insure The Good Life campaign Appleseed discusses foster care on KZUM Nebraskans celebrates National Welcoming Week Nebraskans across the state celebrated building strong and inclusive… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska Communities Honored at White House Welcoming Summit
***For Immediate Release*** October 7, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Communities Honored at National Welcoming Summit White House recognizes Nebraska towns for efforts to build more welcoming, inclusive, communities WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Nebraska communities were among a group of cities and towns from across the… Read more →
Study shows immigrants today integrating as quickly as previous generations
Tuesday’s Omaha World-Herald carried an important story as the topic of immigration continues to be part of the national debate — both about U.S. actions to accept refugees seeking safety as well as Congress’ continued inaction to modernize our out-of-date immigration system. The story highlighted a new national study that confirms the enormous contributions immigrants make to Nebraska and the… Read more →
RELEASE – Census shows over 12 percent of Nebraskans in Poverty in 2014
***For Immediate Release*** September 17, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org New data: Over 227,000 Nebraskans lived in Poverty in 2014 Census shows poverty has not sharply fallen despite nation’s lowest unemployment rate LINCOLN — The percentage of Nebraskans living in poverty was slightly reduced in 2014 versus… Read more →
Meet Kait Madsen – Appleseed’s new Field Organizer
When Kait Madsen was looking for ways to get involved on her college campus during her first year at Loyola University in Chicago, she knew she wanted to help others find solutions to problems in their communities. “I’ve always been interested in human rights and making a difference,” she said. That interest sparked a passion for organizing, and led Kait… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes new Weitz fellow Tori Ostenso
Appleseed is very pleased to welcome Tori Ostenso as Appleseed’s Weitz Fellow working with our Economic Justice & Health Care Access programs. The fellowship is supported by the Weitz Family Foundation of Omaha and places recent Carleton College graduates with non-profits in Lincoln and Omaha for one-year fellowships. At Appleseed, Tori will be doing important work to fight poverty, increase… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – September 2015
In this September edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Tell Congress to fight child hunger Many Nebraska families report facing food hardship Newspaper series highlights need to expand Medicaid Local leaders attend grassroots leadership workshop Tickets now available for the 2015 Good Apple Awards Meet our 2015 Summer Law Clerks and Interns Tell Congress to reauthorize funding for child nutrition programs… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Chuck Smart
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities intern Chuck Smart is putting his talents and passion to work at Nebraska Appleseed. Though Chuck is in his… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Gloria Kimbulu
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Appleseed intern Gloria Kimbulu is passionate about immigration law because, well, she is an immigrant herself. Gloria’s parents are from the Democratic… Read more →
PRESS RELEASE – Nearly 12 percent of Nebraska families facing food hardship
***For Immediate Release*** August 21, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Number of Nebraska families facing food hardship remains steady in 2015 Hunger data shows slight improvement, but too many Nebraskans still struggle to eat LINCOLN — New data released Thursday from the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC)… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Melissa Bumanglag
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities intern Melissa Bumanglag traded in gorgeous beaches of Hawaii for the not-so-beautiful Nebraska winters. Hailing from beautiful Mililani, Hawaii… Read more →
Cookies with a purpose
Note: This is a guest post from Immigrants & Communities intern Lee Kreimer. I must admit, I’ve always been a sucker for baked goods. Still, there’s something special about the banana bread filled with chocolate chips baked by Delores de la Torre. After sitting in her kitchen for an hour and hearing her story, I know why it tastes so… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Olivia Rask
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities, Administration, and Jane-of-all-trades intern Olivia Rask is starting off her fight for justice early and in a forceful way.… Read more →
Scottsbluff newspaper series highlights need to expand Medicaid
If you’ve followed us on social media this week, you’ve seen us share an impressively researched three-part series from the Scottsbluff Star-Herald on the damaging effects of leaving nearly 77,000 Nebraskans uninsured because Nebraska has not yet expanded Medicaid. Star-Herald reporter Irene North spent six weeks compiling data, interviewing local health officials, and talking to people in Nebraska’s panhandle about… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – August 2015
In this August edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Celebrating Medicaid’s 50th birthday Improving access to children’s behavioral health treatment New Americans share their stories at World Refugee Day Introducing 2015 Good Apple Awards honorees Appleseed is hiring Fall interns Meet our 2015 Summer Law Clerks and Interns Celebrating Medicaid on its 50th Birthday One of the cornerstones of our American… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Anna Grossman
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Management and Operations intern Anna Grossman is a fan of healthy people and social justice. Calling Omaha her hometown, she attended the… Read more →
Medicaid at 50: A day worth celebrating
One of the cornerstones of our American health care system reached a big milestone today when we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Medicaid program. For half a century, Medicaid has improved the lives of millions of Nebraskans by providing essential health coverage to people who need it the most, while also supporting Nebraska’s hospitals and clinics and being a… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet John Beutler
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Economic Justice law clerk John Beutler is a critical advocate for justice, both on and off the sand volleyball court. Born and… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet David Pontier
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Most people decide right after their undergraduate career if they want to pursue a law degree, but for Appleseed’s Immigrants & Communities… Read more →
World Refugee Day opens eyes to refugee stories
Meeting neighbors, finding shared values, and learning about the richness of the combined cultures of all of the people who are proud to call Nebraska home is exciting and can help us to overcome what often divides us. Here, Olivia Rask, an Appleseed intern, shares her experience at the recent World Refugee Day Celebration in Omaha. There are many opportunities… Read more →
Appleseed excited to welcome executive assistant Cassandra Ndahiro
One of the newest members of the Nebraska Appleseed family brings our group a wealth of different life experiences from a truly unique background. We’re very pleased to introduce you to our Executive Assistant Cassandra Ndahiro. Cassandra moved to the U.S. after growing up in both Africa and Europe. She calls Kigali, Rwanda, and Kerava, Finland, her hometowns and made… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Ashley Kunz
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities intern Ashley Kunz has begun the long trek to law school, and hopes that Nebraska Appleseed will be a… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Lee Kreimer
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities intern Lee Kreimer may be a Lincoln native, but her journey to Nebraska Appleseed wasn’t just a drive across… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Law Clerks and Interns – Meet Federico Vicente
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants and Communities intern Federico Vicente is using his well-traveled experience with different cultures to pursue law. Federico could easily call himself… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law Clerks – Meet Nelly Greenberg
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Law Clerk Nelly Greenberg is taking her life experiences and her passion for helping people to Nebraska Appleseed’s Health Care program. “As… Read more →
New Americans share their stories at World Refugee Day 2015
Note: This is a guest post from Appleseed intern Lee Kreimer. I could list many things that I love about Nebraska. The beautiful countryside, the bike paths, and the friendly neighbors are just a few. After attending Omaha Benson High School’s World Refugee Day Celebration last week, it reaffirmed another thing that I love about my state: diversity. Many may not… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law Clerks – Meet Taryn Zastrow
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities Intern Taryn Zastrow is taking her longtime passion for social justice and combining it with her newfound love… Read more →
Overflow crowd talks fighting Human Trafficking in Nebraska
Note: This is a guest post from Appleseed Communications Intern Grady Wiedeman. It was standing-room only at Omaha’s Urban Abbey on June 30, as a crowd of more than 120 people gathered to discuss ways to recognize and fight human trafficking in Nebraska. Nebraska Appleseed partnered with the Women’s Fund of Omaha to provide a community discussion about human… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – July 2015
In this July edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Supreme Court upholds health coverage in King v. Burwell Legal victory to protect children’s rights to behavioral health treatments Tell Congress to support Child Nutrition bills Save the date for the 2015 Good Apple Awards Capitol Rally to Close the Coverage Gap Urban Abbey Events Meet our 2015 Clerks and Interns… Read more →
RELEASE – Court victory allows Children access to Vital Behavioral Health Treatments
***For Immediate Release*** July 1, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Court victory allows Children access to Vital Behavioral Health Treatments Lancaster County District Court sides with Appleseed in important decision LINCOLN — Yesterday, Lancaster County District Court Judge John Colborn issued an order protecting the rights of Nebraska… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law Clerks – Meet Kevin Dunn
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Kevin Dunn, an intern in Nebraska Appleseed’s Child Welfare program, has come to Appleseed after a long journey. Starting in beautiful… Read more →
STATEMENT – Supreme Court ruling ensures health coverage for 57,000 Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** June 25, 2015 Contact, James Goddard Health Care Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 jgoddard@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on King v. Burwell Ruling Supreme Court decision upholds access to vital health coverage for Nebraskans LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Health Care Director James Goddard issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on… Read more →
Take Action! Tell Congress to fight child hunger in Nebraska
Today, we’re asking you to take action to fight child hunger in Nebraska and tell our members of Congress to support two key, bipartisan bills that will ensure thousands of Nebraska kids will get the food they need this summer. Call your Congressman and Nebraska’s U.S. Senators and urge them to support the Summer Meals Act of 2015 and the… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law Clerks – Meet Samantha Swiniarski
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Child Welfare law clerk Samantha Swiniarski is using her previous experience as a child welfare social worker and her passion for Nebraska… Read more →
RELEASE: Supreme Court ruling will affect health coverage for 57,000 Nebraskans
***For Immediate Release*** June 18, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Health coverage of 57,000 Nebraskans hinges on Supreme Court ruling Adverse Court decision could strip health coverage from Nebraskans statewide LINCOLN — A new report released today by Families USA shows the U.S. Supreme Court decision in King… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law Clerks – Meet Grace Kraus
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Immigrants & Communities intern Grace Kraus has seen firsthand the positive change Nebraska Appleseed fights for in Nebraska, and it led… Read more →
The Coverage Gap in Western Nebraska
SCOTTSBLUFF — It is a more-rugged kind of beauty in the western tip of the state, where the rolling hills and flat plains of eastern Nebraska give way to hints of the nearby Rocky Mountains. As you reach Nebraska’s westernmost counties, portions of earth sharply jump out of the ground as if trying to reach the sky. The geology and… Read more →
2015 Appleseed Interns and Law clerks – Meet Grady Wiedeman
Note: Each year, Nebraska Appleseed is fortunate to work with a number of bright, talented law clerks and interns. This is one of a series of posts that feature Appleseed’s clerks and interns discussing their backgrounds and experiences. Appleseed communications intern Grady Wiedeman is utilizing the skills that he learned competing in speech and debate in real world situations.… Read more →
RELEASE: Capitol rally calls on Legislature to focus on closing coverage gap
***For Immediate Release*** June 6, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Capitol Rally calls for Legislature to close the Coverage Gap Nearly 77,000 uninsured Nebraskans can’t wait for solution LINCOLN — Saturday, a crowd of approximately 100 supporters gathered outside the State Capitol to call for Nebraska’s State… Read more →
Statewide wave of support carries DREAMers driver’s licenses bill to passage
You Did It! On May 28, the Nebraska Legislature voted 34-10 to pass LB 623 and override the Governor’s veto. Passing this bill makes Nebraska the final state to allow young “DREAMers” – immigrants who grew up in Nebraska after being brought to this country as children – to apply for driver’s licenses. Watch video of final vote But, the bill… Read more →
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – June 2015
In this June edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Recap of a tremendous 2015 Legislative session Capitol Rally to Close the Coverage Gap We’re Hiring! Field Organizer Court decision delays implementation of immigration relief programs Six Omaha schools receive Hunger Free Schools Awards During Foster Care Month, youth urged to Get Covered! Support Appleseed in June with coffee from Urban Abbey… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska kids struggle getting needed food in summer
***For Immediate Release*** June 1, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska participation in Summer Food Program slightly increased in 2014 National study shows state has more work to do feeding kids in summer months LINCOLN — Participation in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) slightly improved in Nebraska… Read more →
A cup of coffee from Urban Abbey in June helps our fight for justice and opportunity for all
It’s not every day that your cup of coffee can support justice for all, but it can during the month of June! Appleseed is excited to renew our community partnership throughout the month of June with our friends at the Urban Abbey, a non-profit coffee shop, bookstore, and faith community in Omaha’s Old Market (1026 Jackson St). Stop in and… Read more →
STATEMENT – Veto override vote the right choice for Nebraska
***For Immediate Release*** May 28, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Legislature’s override of Governor’s veto of DREAMers driver’s license bill Vote shows overwhelming support to let talented young Nebraskans contribute to their communities LINCOLN — Thursday, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued… Read more →
STATEMENT – Governor’s veto of DREAMers driver’s license bill hurts young Nebraskans integral to communities
***For Immediate Release*** May 27, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Governor’s veto of DREAMers driver’s license bill Veto unnecessarily harms young Nebraskans who want to contribute more fully to their communities LINCOLN — Wednesday night, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the following… Read more →
STATEMENT – Court decision to delay DAPA/DACA puts families in jeopardy
***For Immediate Release*** May 27, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals Ruling delaying DAPA/DACA Delay of program puts families in jeopardy, limits economic contributions LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the following statement on the… Read more →
RELEASE – Final passage of bills will help DREAMers, foster youth, and working families
***For Immediate Release*** May 21, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed praises Legislative votes on Final Reading Friday Bills passing final vote will improve lives of Nebraska DREAMers, children, and working families LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed issued the following statements on bills that were passed on… Read more →
ConAgra Foods Foundation honors six OPS schools with Hunger Free Schools Award
Award recognizes schools, school board members, administrators who have fought child hunger in Omaha OMAHA — Thursday morning, ConAgra Foods Foundation, in partnership with community organizations that fight hunger and advocate for youth, recognized work to fight childhood hunger in Omaha schools by presenting six OPS schools with the Hunger Free School Award. At a celebratory breakfast meeting hosted at… Read more →
STATEMENT – DREAMers driver’s license bill one round from passage
***For Immediate Release*** May 19, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on DREAMers driver’s license bill LB 623 one more vote from passage, allowing young immigrants to contribute more fully to Nebraska LINCOLN — Tuesday, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on… Read more →
STATEMENT – Legislature made right choice for hard-working young Nebraskans by voting down LB 599
***For Immediate Release*** May 15, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Legislature’s vote on LB 599 Voting down bill is right choice for hard-working young Nebraskans LINCOLN — Friday, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the Legislature’s vote not to pass… Read more →
STATEMENT – Appleseed praises Legislature for advancing DREAMers driver’s license bill
***For Immediate Release*** May 14, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on DREAMers driver’s license bill Advancing LB 623 is another step forward for young immigrant Nebraskans LINCOLN — This morning, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the Legislature’s vote to advance… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – May 2015
5/6/2015 In this May edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Medicaid Redesign Act falls in Legislature Governor’s veto harms poorest families DREAMers driver’s license bill gains statewide support Legislative Update More evidence of crippling injuries in meat and poultry plants Over 100 Nebraska schools eligible to feed all students Primer calls for more accountable funding of child welfare system Medicaid Redesign… Read more →
STATEMENT – Compromise a first step toward stability for Nebraska’s poorest families
***For Immediate Release*** May 5, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on working families aid funding Compromise is first step to increase stability for working, low-income families LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on the announced compromise reached on adding aspects… Read more →
Take Action! Stand up for Nebraska’s poorest children
We need you to take action today to stand up for Nebraska’s poorest families with children. This week, Governor Ricketts vetoed LB 89, a bill that would use existing funds to slightly increase Nebraska’s Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) benefit for the first time in nearly 30 years. Take Action! Contact your State Senator today! Urge them to stand up… Read more →
RELEASE – Over 100 Nebraska schools eligible to fight classroom hunger with new tool
***For Immediate Release*** May 1, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org More than 100 Nebraska Schools Eligible for New Tool to Reduce Hunger in the Classroom LINCOLN — Today, the Nebraska Department of Education announced 111 schools in Nebraska will be eligible to serve more free meals to students using… Read more →
STATEMENT – Governor’s veto of LB 89 harms poorest Nebraska children and families
***For Immediate Release*** April 29, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Governor’s Veto of LB 89 Governor’s uses first veto to harm state’s poorest Children and Families LINCOLN — Tonight, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement regarding the Governor’s veto of LB… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraska must improve accountability, effectiveness in child welfare financing
***For Immediate Release*** April 29, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska must improve accountability, effectiveness in Child Welfare financing New primer offers recommendations to achieve better outcomes for children in foster care LINCOLN — Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey issued the following statement on the… Read more →
RELEASE – Appleseed praises passage of LB 89
***For Immediate Release*** April 23, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on passage of LB 89 Legislature’s vote will strengthen Nebraska’s working families LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement in support of the Legislature’s vote to pass LB… Read more →
New study shows immigration is linked to rural economic gains
Last week, we posted about a 50-state study that showed the significant tax contributions made by undocumented immigrants in Nebraska. Another study released this week has more good economic news for Nebraska’s rural counties with large immigrant populations. The study, published on the Daily Yonder, shows that rural counties with more immigrants also tend to be performing better economically. Study:… Read more →
RELEASE – Undocumented immigrants pay $44 million in Nebraska taxes, new report shows
***For Immediate Release*** April 16, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Abbie Kretz Senior Organizer, Heartland Workers Center Office: (402) 933-6095 abbie@heartlandworkerscenter.org New Analysis: Nebraska undocumented immigrants pay more than $44 Million in state and local taxes Contributions would substantially increase with new federal immigration laws A new… Read more →
RELEASE – White House policy report encourages proactive integration of immigrants
***For Immediate Release*** April 15, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org White House policy report encourages proactive integration of immigrants Plan is a historic step toward creating the nation’s first federal integration strategy Tuesday, the White House Task Force on New Americans announced a historic step toward creating the… Read more →
STATEMENT – Appleseed lauds vote to advance DREAMers driver’s license bill LB 623
***For Immediate Release*** April 10, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed praises Transportation Committee for advancing LB 623 Bill allows young immigrant Nebraskans to contribute more fully to their communities LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser issued the following statement on the Legislature’s… Read more →
STATEMENT – Failure to advance LB 472 leaves 77,000 Nebraskans without coverage
***For Immediate Release*** April 8, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed Statement on Legislature’s decision not to advance LB 472 LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the Legislature’s decision not to advance LB 472 – the Medicaid Redesign Act. “Today’s vote was… Read more →
STATEMENT – Legislature must pass LB 472 to close the coverage gap
***For Immediate Release*** April 8, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed urges Legislature to pass LB 472 to close coverage gap Medicaid Redesign Act would enhance healthcare access, boost economy LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement in support of LB… Read more →
Press Release: New report shows 12 percent of Nebraskans face hunger
***For Immediate Release*** April 7, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Survey Finds 12 Percent of Nebraska Households Struggle to Afford Food New Data Underscores Need to Protect and Improve Federal Nutrition Programs LINCOLN – One in 8 people – 12.8 percent of respondents – in Nebraska reported… Read more →
Legislative Update – April 6
Nebraska Appleseed’s Legislative Update News and Updates from the Nebraska Unicameral April 6, 2015 This is shaping up to be one of the biggest weeks of the Legislative session for Appleseed’s priority bills. Medicaid Redesign Act set for debate Wednesday afternoon, the Legislature will begin debate on LB 472 – the Medicaid Redesign Act. Passing this crucial bill… Read more →
Urge State Senators to Close The Coverage Gap. Vote “Yes” on LB 472
Now is an important time for you to make your voice heard to fix a large hole in our health care system. On Wednesday April 8, the Nebraska Legislature will begin debate on LB 472 – the Medicaid Redesign Act. Passing this crucial bill would make health care make sense for everyone in Nebraska. We’re asking you to act today! Contact… Read more →
Nebraska State Senators on Twitter
State Senator Twitter Handle Senator Roy Baker @BakerforNELeg Senator Kate Bolz @katejbolz Senator Lydia Brasch @LydiaBrasch Senator Colby Coash @ColbyCoash Senator Sue Crawford @SenCrawford Senator Al Davis @AlDavisDist43 Senator Laura Ebke @SenLauraEbke Senator Curt Friesen @captaincorn Senator Ken Haar @SenatorKenHaar Senator Matt Hansen @HansenforLD26 Senator Burke Harr @BurkeHarr Senator Bob Hilkemann @votehilkemann Senator Bill Kintner @BillKintner Senator Rick Kolowski… Read more →
Food assistance lawsuit vs DHHS gets class certification
***For Immediate Release*** April 1, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Class Certification Approved for Lawsuit to Protect Nebraskans Eligible for Food Assistance Suit claims Nebraska HHS unlawfully delayed food assistance beyond legal time frames LINCOLN – Tuesday afternoon, a federal district court judge approved class certification in a lawsuit… Read more →
Legislative Update – March 30
Nebraska Appleseed’s Legislative Update News and Updates from the Nebraska Unicameral March 30, 2015 Last week marked the first week of full-day debate in the Legislature, and one of Appleseed’s priority bills is on the agenda for this week. Child care “cliff effect” bill set for debate this week LB 81 – This bill introduced by Sen. Tanya… Read more →
Action Alert – Tell Congress to fund the Children’s Health Insurance Program
Today, ask our U.S. Representatives to make children’s health care a priority by supporting the bipartisan legislation in the House of Representatives to extend funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). On Thursday, Congress will vote to extend funding for CHIP, a program that provides health coverage for over 55,000 Nebraska children. We’re asking you to act TODAY. Contact… Read more →
Faith leaders urge lawmakers to Close the Coverage Gap
On March 17, faith leaders converged on the State Capitol to deliver a letter to State Senators signed by more than 170 Nebraska faith leaders calling for the passage of LB 472 – the Medicaid Redesign Act. Rev. Keith Nelson, a retired Lutheran pastor, told reporters that Nebraska clergy viewed the bill, which would help 54,000 working Nebraskans with low… Read more →
RELEASE – OSHA denies workplace protections to meatpacking, poultry workers
***For Immediate Release*** March 18, 2015 CONTACT Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Emma Weinstein-Levey Southern Poverty Law Center (334) 324-6580 emma.levey@splcenter.org Meat and Poultry Workers Denied Better Workplace Protections by Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA: Lack of Resources Preventing Action to Protect Workers MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The U.S.… Read more →
RELEASE – Over 170 Nebraska faith leaders urge Unicameral support for health coverage bill
***For Immediate Release*** March 17, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Rev. Keith Nelson Omaha Together One Community Clergy Caucus Mobile: 402-304-3648 Email: OTOCforNebraska@gmail.com More than 170 Nebraska faith leaders sign letter of support for Medicaid Redesign Act Faith leaders urge State Senators to pass LB 472 for health… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on Sen. Sasse’s anti-immigrant bill
***For Immediate Release*** March 17, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed questions unnecessary bill targeting hard-working Nebraska families Bill would hurt state and local economies Tuesday, Nebraska Appleseed issued the following statement on S. 748 introduced by Nebraska’s U.S. Senator Ben Sasse. “This bill would leave hard-working immigrant Nebraskans… Read more →
Legislative Update – March 16
Nebraska Appleseed’s Legislative Update News and Updates from the Nebraska Unicameral March 16, 2015 Last week, committees met and discussed two of Appleseed’s top priority bills, but we still await action on one of them during this final week of committee hearings. HHS Committee advances LB 472 to the floor On March 10, the Health and Human Services Committee voted… Read more →
TAKE ACTION – Support DREAMers driver’s license bill
Today is a very important moment to support a bill that affects young immigrant Nebraskans and their ability to contribute to their communities. We’re asking you to contact members of the Legislature’s Transportation and Telecommunications Committee and urge their support for LB 623. LB 623 would allow young immigrant Nebraskans who qualify for DACA to apply for driver’s licenses. (DACA… Read more →
Take Action TONIGHT against harmful tax bill
TONIGHT, is an important moment for you to take action and fight against a harmful tax bill that could damage our state’s budget for years to come. LB 357 calls for income tax cuts that mainly benefit Nebraskans with high incomes at the expense of slashing funding for our schools, roads, police, fire departments, and safe, vibrant communities – similar… Read more →
New Report shows increased workforce need for Adult Basic Education
Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Report: More investment in Adult Basic Education would improve Nebraska workforce Hard-working Nebraskans need more skills to compete in changing economy LINCOLN — A new report released Monday shows Nebraska’s need to invest more in Adult Basic Education (ABE). The report, “Adult Education in… Read more →
Young immigrant driver’s license bill draws statewide support
***For Immediate Release*** March 3, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Young immigrants driver’s license bill draws statewide support LB 623 would allow DACA recipients to contribute more to their communities LINCOLN — Tuesday, Nebraska agricultural, safety, youth, and immigrant leaders issued statements of support for LB 623 in advance… Read more →
Come to LB 472 Lobby Day – March 5
Right now, more than 54,000 working Nebraskans have no way to afford health insurance This coverage gap results in enormous human and financial costs that can no longer be ignored. The Nebraska Legislature can close this coverage gap in 2015 by passing LB 472, and you can make your voice heard! Join us for a lobby day at the Capitol on March 5th… Read more →
Legislative Update – February 23
Nebraska Appleseed’s Legislative Update News and Updates from the Nebraska Unicameral February 23, 2015 Legislature votes down restrictive Voter ID bill Last Wednesday, after several hours of floor debate, the Legislature voted down harmful voter suppression bill LB 111. Senators voted 25-15 on a motion to “bracket” the bill, which ends debate and essentially tables the bill until after the… Read more →
Appleseed statement on Texas v. U.S. immigration case ruling
For Immediate Release February 17, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Community advocates to keep fighting for Nebraska families after Texas v. U.S. ruling Monday night, a federal judge in Texas went outside the legal mainstream and issued a temporary injunction in the case of Texas v. U.S. The ruling… Read more →
RELEASE: Nebraska lags nationally in providing School Breakfast
***For Immediate Release*** February 13, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Report: Nebraska Lags Nationally in providing School Breakfast This week, the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) released its School Breakfast Scorecard, an annual report that analyzes each state’s participation in the School Breakfast Program. The report reveals Nebraska… Read more →
Appleseed statement on working families support bill LB 89
***For Immediate Release*** February 6, 2015 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed statement on LB 89 heard by HHS Committee Friday Bill would help Nebraska families to stay together while rewarding hard work Friday, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement in support of… Read more →
Nebraska Appleseed statement on Nebraska Legislature Voter ID bills
***For Immediate Release*** January 23, 2015 Contact: Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement on the proposed voter ID bills LB 111 and LB 121 heard by the Legislature’s Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee this afternoon. “LB 111 and LB 121… Read more →
Appleseed statement on Governor’s 2015 State of the State Address
LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State Address. “We couldn’t agree more with Governor Ricketts when he said Nebraska’s greatest resource is our people, and we echo his spirit of collaboration that we can make a stronger, better state when we work together,” Gould said.… Read more →
STATEMENT – Business, faith, education, and health care groups support LB 472
***For Immediate Release*** Contact: Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org LINCOLN — Today a coalition of more than 20 business, health care, education, faith and community groups issued a joint statement in support of LB 472, introduced today by State Senator Kathy Campbell, that would close the coverage gap that currently leaves more… Read more →
ACTION ALERT – Tell your State Senator to Close the Coverage Gap
Today, a bill was introduced in the Legislature that would close Nebraska’s health coverage gap and fix a problem that currently inflicts high human and financial costs on our state. We hope you’ll act today to show your support. We’re asking you to contact your state senator and urge them to support LB 472, to make health care make sense for… Read more →
An early investment pays off big for Medicaid
A new study shows making sure all kids have access to health coverage is a better investment for states than most opponents would have you believe. Using tax filings from low-income families with children who were eligible for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a Yale economist examined the taxes paid by these children once they became adults. The data… Read more →
Being Poor is Getting Scarier in the U.S.
New research by two California economists recently highlighted that the United States is doing significantly worse now to protect low-income families from falling into deep poverty than in previous recessions. The research, cited in a new story from Bloomberg View, “Being Poor Is Getting Scarier in the U.S.,” shows the most recent recession that began in 2008 increased the number… Read more →
Fight for justice and opportunity in 2015
Big work lies ahead in 2015 making our state a stronger, more just society for all Nebraskans. We hope you’re ready to join us! Your voice will be essential to remove barriers to opportunity in Nebraska at the state and federal levels. Here’s what is coming up in 2015 Health Care Appleseed will continue our work at the State Capitol to… Read more →
New Appleseed organizer ready to help all Nebraskans get covered
When Lauren Williams first started down a career path, she thought her work would involve a telescope. But after getting a taste of volunteering on health care issues, she realized there is another way to see the big picture and how it affects people in Nebraska. We’re excited to introduce you to Lauren, who joined Appleseed in December as a… Read more →
RELEASE – ‘500 by the 15th’ surpasses health coverage goal
***For Immediate Release*** December 19, 2014 “500 By The 15th” campaign widely surpasses health insurance enrollment goal Organizations assist nearly 900 Nebraskans in new or renewed coverage plans LINCOLN — A statewide campaign to help at least 500 Nebraskans enroll in health insurance or renew previous plans in the first half of December was a resounding success, Enroll Nebraska… Read more →
Civil rights groups demand formal OSHA response on worker protections
For Immediate Release December 17, 2014 Contact: Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Kyleah Starling, Southern Poverty Law Center Phone: (334) 956-8420 kyleah.starling@splcenter.org Civil rights groups demand formal OSHA response on worker protections Letter requests written response to 2013 petition demanding safeguards from crippling injuries LINCOLN — Today, a coalition of civil… Read more →
Meet Katie Pitts, Appleseed’s new Public Policy Director
When the 2015 Nebraska Legislature starts in January, Appleseed will have a new, but familiar face at the State Capitol. We are excited to introduce you to Katie Pitts, our new Director of Public Policy! We are happy to welcome Katie back to Appleseed, where she previously served with us as a law clerk while attending Creighton University School of… Read more →
Amanda’s Story: Life in the Coverage Gap
If you’ve been following the debate around closing the coverage gap that leaves at least 54,000 Nebraskans without health insurance, you may have heard Lincoln resident Amanda Gershon speak. Amanda has been very brave to share her story with state senators and the public. She has an unknown autoimmune disease that leaves her unable to work as much as she… Read more →
The Costs of the Coverage Gap in Nebraska are Too High to Ignore
On December 2, Nebraska state senators again witnessed the high human and financial cost our state is paying by not closing the coverage gap that leaves at least 54,000 working people unable to get health insurance. The Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee convened for a hearing on interim study LR 601 to study the effects of implementing or failing… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – December 2014 – Keeping Nebraska families together
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – December 2014 12/3/2014 In this December edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Nebraskans support President’s Administrative Relief Enroll Nebraska launches 500 By the 15th campaign Report shows working Nebraskans fall in coverage gap Nebraska Supreme Court decides important ICWA case Support our fight for justice for families facing hunger President’s Administrative Relief a good… Read more →
‘500 by the 15th’ campaign to encourage Nebraskans to get health coverage
***For Immediate Release*** December 1, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org “500 by the 15th” campaign aims to help Nebraskans get health coverage Statewide health care organizations available to provide free assistance Today, community and health care organizations across Nebraska announced the kickoff of a new effort to ensure Nebraskans get… Read more →
Families USA report: Working Nebraskans being left without coverage
***For Immediate Release*** December 1, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org New report shows vast majority of Nebraskans in Coverage Gap are working Nearly three-quarters of those unable to get health coverage have held jobs in past year LINCOLN — A new report released today by Families USA, the national… Read more →
RELEASE – Nebraskans call Administrative Relief a good first step on immigration
***For Immediate Release*** November 24, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraskans call President’s Administrative Relief a good first step on immigration Immigrant, faith, & community leaders now urge Congress to take action for long-term, common-sense laws LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska faith, immigrant, and community leaders gathered to support the… Read more →
Appleseed Statement on President’s Administrative Action on Immigration
For Immediate Release November 20, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed statement on President’s Administrative Relief for Immigrants Tonight, Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Director Darcy Tromanhauser released the following statement on President Obama’s announcement of temporary administrative relief from deportation for some immigrants in the United… Read more →
Nebraska Supreme Court decides Indian Child Welfare Act case
***For Immediate Release*** November 14, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska Supreme Court makes influential decision on Indian Child Welfare Act Court holds ICWA protections apply to state wards placed in parental home LINCOLN – Today, the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that the Indian Child Welfare Act’s active efforts requirement… Read more →
Nebraska Students Vote
Note: This is a guest blog post from a group of Union College students who worked with Appleseed staff this fall to create a project designed to encourage Nebraska college students to vote in this election. This semester the Practice III class at Union College hosted a service learning project where students had the opportunity to work alongside an organization.… Read more →
Take Action – Vote for Initiative 425 to raise Nebraska’s minimum wage
Tomorrow is your chance to help make hard work pay in Nebraska by voting FOR Initiative 425 to raise Nebraska’s minimum wage to $9.00 per hour! Voting for Initiative 425 will reaffirm the value and dignity of hard work for thousands of Nebraska families who have fallen behind despite working full-time jobs. Click here to find your polling place Our… Read more →
RELEASE – Feds issue historic fine to poultry plant for injuries and abuses
For Immediate Release October 30, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org OSHA issues noteworthy fine to poultry plant for injuries and abuses Violations echo concerns of Nebraska meatpacking and poultry workers Yesterday, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a fine of more than $100,000 to an Alabama… Read more →
RELEASE – New report offers recommendations for family and workforce stability
For Immediate Release Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Appleseed report offers solutions to increase stability for families and workforce Despite high workforce participation, many Nebraska families struggle to meet basic needs LINCOLN — Strong, productive workers and families are the backbone of Nebraska’s communities and our economy. Unfortunately, many… Read more →
Appleseed organizers find passion for voting stretches across Nebraska
With the November 4th election quickly approaching, Appleseed staff have been busy traveling across the state to encourage Nebraskans to vote. We caught up with our organizer, Alex Gibilisco, to find out what is motivating Nebraskans to go to their polling place this fall, many of them for the first time. Q. What sort of work has Appleseed been doing to… Read more →
GoodHire program to help Nebraskans get meaningful work experience
Appleseed very enthusiastically supported a bill during the 2013 Nebraska Legislature session that created a pilot program to encourage Nebraska businesses to hire new employees and grow the state’s economy through wage subsidies. The bill, LB 368, introduced by State Senator Sue Crawford, was a win-win both for businesses looking to grow and hard-working Nebraskans who needed a chance to… Read more →
RELEASE – Youth in Foster Care get Healthy Opportunity from Medicaid
***For Immediate Release*** October 24, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org ACA Medicaid Provision gives Healthy Opportunities to Youth Formerly in Foster Care New report shows only small fraction of eligible youth currently enrolled LINCOLN — The Affordable Care Act provides young adults who age out of foster care… Read more →
You’re Invited – Panel discussion on Paid Family Leave
With the changing nature of the workforce, it’s getting more and more challenging to balance the demands of the jobs we need and the families we love. States around the country are starting to establish policies that promote more family-friendly workplaces, and both businesses and families are seeing the benefits. Please join us for a discussion featuring national expert Ellen… Read more →
Appleseed welcomes Eric Savaiano to Economic Justice and Health Care programs
October 1st, Appleseed was proud to welcome the newest member of our team when Eric Savaiano joined us as a Program Associate with our Health Care and Economic Justice programs. Eric comes to us from Nashville, Tenn., where he previously worked at an educational nonprofit called the PENCIL Foundation as a Family Resource Center Director at a large, diverse, public… Read more →
“Medicaid Works” photo project shows value of health care for all Nebraska families
Medicaid is vital to the wellbeing of many Nebraskans with disabilities. Unfortunately, this critical health insurance program is often poorly understood and stigmatized. The “Medicaid Works” photo project promotes an accurate picture of the many ways this essential program supports thousands of Nebraskans every day. View the entire “Medicaid Works” photo project. With support from the Nebraska Planning Council on… Read more →
Nebraskans in poverty, and the solutions that can help
Last week, TalkPoverty.org released their state-by-state analysis of 2013 poverty data compiled last month by the U.S. Census. Using a variety of measures, the interactive analysis provides an in-depth look at how poverty impacts various communities across the United States, including each congressional district in Nebraska. Click here to find Nebraska’s poverty data. One of the most alarming statistics was… Read more →
Campus Camp Wellstone teaches valuable skills for advocates
I attended my first Campus Camp Wellstone training as a sophomore in college at UNL. At this point as an undergrad, I had become involved in various social justice-oriented clubs on campus. I knew just enough to identify the issues I was passionate about but not enough to know what I could do about any of them. I often felt… Read more →
Meet the 2014 Good Apple Awards honorees – Jan Gradwohl
On October 2nd, we will be honoring people and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2014 Good Apple Awards. Leading up to the event, we will introduce you to the 2014 award recipients. Jan Gradwohl – Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes a Nebraskan who… Read more →
Meet the 2014 Good Apple Awards honorees – Beth Riley
On October 2nd, we will be honoring people and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2014 Good Apple Awards. Leading up to the event, we will introduce you to the 2014 award recipients. Beth Riley – Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award is named after Nebraska… Read more →
Meet the 2014 Good Apple Awards honorees – Creighton Center for Service and Justice
On October 2nd, we will be honoring people and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2014 Good Apple Awards. Leading up to the event, we will introduce you to the 2014 award recipients. Roots of Justice Award – Creighton Center for Service and Justice The Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots… Read more →
Meet the 2014 Good Apple Awards Honorees – Husch Blackwell LLP
On October 2nd, we will be honoring people and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the 2014 Good Apple Awards. Leading up to the event, we will introduce you to the 2014 award recipients. Seeds of Justice Award – Husch Blackwell LLP The Seeds of Justice Award honors outstanding legal contributions to… Read more →
RELEASE – Organizations call on Crime Commission to curb racial profiling
For Immediate Release September 17, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Tyler Richard ACLU of Nebraska Phone: (402) 476-8091 x104 Email: trichard@aclunebraska.org Organizations present recommendations to Nebraska Crime Commission to curb racial profiling LINCOLN — Today, a group of 25 Nebraska organizations and concerned citizens presented a letter to the… Read more →
SNAP error rates continue to be at record lows
Error rates in food assistance programs nationwide continue to be at record lows according to an analysis from Stateline (a project of Pew Charitable Trusts). This impressive accuracy comes even as the number of Americans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) grew during the Great Recession, which began in 2007. Stateline’s study credited the reduction in error rate… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – September 2014
News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed – September 2014 9/3/2014 In this September edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Minimum wage Initiative 425 officially goes on ballot Bridge to Independence for youth aging out of foster care gets federal approval Lawsuit filed to protect Nebraskans eligible for food assistance Nebraskans urge Congressmen to help Stop Separating Families Get your tickets for… Read more →
RELEASE – Federal HHS approves Bridge to Independence program
***For Immediate Release*** August 21, 2014 Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Federal HHS approves ‘Bridge to Independence’ program for young adults aging out of foster care Today, Nebraska received official approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services of Nebraska’s state plan amendment under LB 216, the “Young Adult Bridge to Independence… Read more →
There are many faces of hunger in Nebraska
A new study released this week highlighted the often-overlooked fact that food insecurity is a problem faced by hundreds of thousands of our friends and neighbors here in Nebraska. The study, Hunger In America 2014, was produced by Feeding America, an anti-hunger organization that operates a nationwide series of food banks. It examines the number and demographics of people who… Read more →
Nebraska losing over $4 billion by not expanding Medicaid
This week the Urban Institute released a fiscal study of the effects felt by states that have not chosen to fully implement the Affordable Care Act by expanding Medicaid to people who make up to 138 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. This study shows us just how much it’s costing Nebraska’s health care system to continue to forgo expanding… Read more →
RELEASE – Lawsuit alleges Nebraska DHHS unlawfully delaying food assistance
***For Immediate Release*** Contact, Jeff Sheldon Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 Email: jsheldon@neappleseed.org Class-Action Lawsuit Filed on Behalf of Nebraskans Eligible for Food Assistance Suit claims Nebraska DHHS unlawfully delays SNAP beyond legal time frames LINCOLN — Today, Nebraska Appleseed and the National Center for Law and Economic Justice filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of… Read more →
Appleseed In Action – News and Events for August 2014
8/6/2014 In this August edition of “Appleseed in Action” Support compassion, due process for children fleeing violence Dangerous USDA Poultry Rule gets approval Big numbers for Minimum Wage petition drive Introducing our 2014 Good Apple Award honorees Support compassion, due process for children from Central America fleeing violence Since last fall, approximately 200 children who have fled violent circumstances in… Read more →
STATEMENT – Nebraska faith leaders urge compassion for child immigrants fleeing violence
For Immediate Release August 2, 2014 Contact, Jeanne Schuler Omaha Together One Community (402) 344-4401 omahatogether@otoc.org Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed (402) 438-8853 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Nebraska faith leaders urge values of compassion, humanity for children fleeing violence Today, a collection of more than 90 Nebraska faith and community leaders released a statement calling for Nebraska to act in… Read more →
RELEASE – Final approval given to dangerous USDA Poultry Rule
***For Immediate Release*** Contact, Jeff Sheldon Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 Mobile: (402) 840-7289 jsheldon@neappleseed.org Obama Administration Approves Dangerous USDA Poultry Rule Advocate coalition decries regulation as harmful to food and worker safety LINCOLN — Today, despite the opposition of hundreds of thousands of consumers, dozens of Members of Congress, and more than 100 food and worker safety… Read more →