Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Nebraska Appleseed We Fight for Justice and Opportunity for all Nebraskans ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://neappleseed.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://neappleseed.org/blog) - The latest from Nebraska Appleseed. - [Make your SNAP go further with Double Up Food Bucks (available across Nebraska)](https://neappleseed.org/51480) - Guest Post by Camille Sullivan Research shows that nutrition incentive programs like Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) are one of the most effective ways to increase fruit and vegetable consumption in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households. Rather than restricting and limiting food choices, including recent efforts to ban soda, energy drinks, and candy in - [Join us for a Welcoming Week Workshop - August 20th!](https://neappleseed.org/51478) - Welcoming Week 2026 Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect Welcoming Week: September 10-19 and beyond! Each year, people and communities across Nebraska, the country, and globe - come together to celebrate what makes our neighborhoods stronger: connection, belonging, and the people who call them home. This is a wonderful time to connect with both - [Three Months of Medicaid Work Requirements](https://neappleseed.org/51415) - The state of Nebraska fast-tracked Congress’ Medicaid work reporting requirements, starting the requirements 8 months early with no federal rules and no time to prepare. Since May 1, our state has strapped everyday Nebraskans with needless paperwork and added mountains of work to our already overloaded state workers’ plates. The first three months of work - [Mark Your Calendar for The Good Apple AWARDS!](https://neappleseed.org/51390) - You’re invited to join us for the 2026 Good Apple Awards on Thursday, October 8 at the Livestock Exchange Ballroom in Omaha. Social hour with an hors d’oeuvres dinner and live music begins at 6:00 pm with a program and awards presentation to follow at 7:00 pm. The Good Apple Awards will celebrate Nebraska Appleseed’s 30th anniversary and - [25,000 Nebraskans have lost SNAP -- and most of them are children and seniors](https://neappleseed.org/51307) - Congress worked to convince the public that H.R. 1 should be passed to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse. What it has accomplished in reality is cutting kids, seniors, and eligible families off of a program that provides vital food assistance to individuals and families across our state. As the cost of groceries continues to climb, - [Welcoming Week 2026Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect](https://neappleseed.org/51368) - Welcoming Week: September 10-19 and beyond! Each year, people and communities across Nebraska, the country, and globe - come together to celebrate what makes our neighborhoods stronger: connection, belonging, and the people who call them home. This is a wonderful time to connect with both new and longtime neighbors, celebrate diverse cultures and embrace the - [The 2026 Good Apple Awards Honorees](https://neappleseed.org/51346) - Join us for the 2026 Good Apple Awards on Thursday, October 8 at the Livestock Exchange Ballroom in Omaha. Social hour with an hors d’oeuvres dinner and live music begins at 6:00 pm with a short program to follow at 7:00 pm. Purchase your tickets or become a sponsor of the 2026 Good Apple Awards - [We turned in 186,000+ signatures for Respect Nebraska Voters!](https://neappleseed.org/51259) - Today, Appleseed gathered with advocates from across the state to turn in more than 186,000 signatures representing every county in Nebraska in support of the Respect Nebraska Voters ballot initiative! Thanks to the hard work of advocates and volunteers across our state, we're confident that we’ve submitted more than enough signatures to qualify for the - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Celebrates Supreme Court Upholding Birthright Citizenship](https://neappleseed.org/51248) - ***For Immediate Release***June 30, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Celebrates Supreme Court Upholding Birthright Citizenship President fails to dismantle a cornerstone of the Constitution and democracy LINCOLN, NE – Today, the United States Supreme Court issued their decision in the case of Trump v. Barbara, which challenged - [You’re Invited: Our Voices, Our Why: Building Pathways to Stability – Part 2](https://neappleseed.org/51253) - You’re invited to join Nebraska Appleseed for Our Voices, Our Why: Building Pathways to Stability – Part 2, an afternoon centered on listening to and learning from young people with lived experience in Nebraska's child welfare and juvenile justice systems. 📅 Saturday, August 8, 2026🕐 1:00 – 3:30 PM📍 Eiseley Branch Library1530 Superior Street - - [RELEASE: Feds say Nebraska will not need to pay $15M to continue SNAP next year](https://neappleseed.org/51213) - ***For Immediate Release***June 24, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Feds say Nebraska will not need to pay $15M to continue SNAP next year USDA announces SNAP payment error rates LINCOLN, NE -- Today, the USDA announced state-level Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payment error rates (PER) for - [Introducing inaugural Neec Bowyer Fellow, Kelly Bach](https://neappleseed.org/51205) - Nebraska Appleseed is pleased to welcome Kelly Bach, the inaugural Neec Bowyer Good Trouble Fellow. Kelly will be working full-time with our Health Care Access Team this summer. Originally from the Twin Cities area, Kelly is a recent graduate of Creighton University in Omaha. She is preparing for law school and was looking for an - [Join us for Session 2 (July 1) – Building Community with Belonging Barometer ](https://neappleseed.org/51195) - See you at Session 2 : Belonging Barometer – Tools for Building Community Wednesday, July 1st, 10:30am-12:00pm CT (9:30-11:00am MT) on Zoom Come learn together as we dig deep into the belonging barometer for Session 2 of the 12th-annual statewide welcoming convening (virtual) summer series! We just wrapped up our first session with community leaders - [Join Us for a Health Care Conversation and Coffee on Us](https://neappleseed.org/51190) - You're invited to join Nebraska Appleseed on Wednesday, July 8 for coffee on us! Stop by anytime between 11:00 am to 12:30 pm for a beverage at Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso for a community conversation about access to dental care in Nebraska. We know many community members in Nebraska face challenges accessing the dental health - [RELEASE: New Federal Rule Upends Nebraska’s Decision to Implement Medicaid Work Reporting Requirements Early](https://neappleseed.org/51142) - ***For Immediate Release*** Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado Pirigyi Communications Director, Nebraska Appleseed Office: (402) 438-8853 ext 116 sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: New Federal Rule Upends Nebraska’s Decision to Implement Medicaid Work Reporting Requirements Early Nebraska Must Press Pause on Implementing Medicaid Work Requirements LINCOLN, NE – Late yesterday afternoon, the Centers for Medicaid and - [Congress Passes budget bill giving more funding to ICE](https://neappleseed.org/51124) - Yesterday, Nebraska’s delegation and Congress took the unprecedented step of passing a toxic and irresponsible budget reconciliation bill providing an additional $70 billion of deficit spending for ICE violence and mass detention of neighbors. This action bypassed strong public opposition and the normal budget process to supply ICE with more funding – on top of the - [INVITATION: June 15 DACA Anniversary to Take Action for Permanent Solutions](https://neappleseed.org/51121) - Let’s honor contributions made by DACA community members by calling on Congress for permanent solutions! I wanted to invite you to join us via Zoom on Monday, June 15 to commemorate the 14th Anniversary of DACA by contacting Congress and urging them to provide a permanent solution for longtime community members! Join us for a - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Nebraska to Press Pause on Medicaid Work Reporting Requirements](https://neappleseed.org/51131) - Earlier this week, the federal government released a rule telling states how to implement the Medicaid expansion work reporting requirements. Nebraska's bad decision to implement work requirements on May 1st before this rule was released – eight months before required by law – is already causing mass chaos and confusion as people try to get the health - [TAKE ACTION: Urge Omaha City Council to restore fair wages for Omaha workers](https://neappleseed.org/51129) - On Tuesday, June 16, the Omaha City Council will hold a public hearing on Councilmember Danny Begley’s proposal to ensure that Omaha residents are paid a fair wage by restoring the protections the state legislature removed this year. This hearing builds on the momentum from the Lincoln City Council’s decision to reestablish what Nebraskans voted for in 2022, when nearly 60% - [TAKE ACTION: Continue calling Congress. NO to billions more for ICE violence.](https://neappleseed.org/51126) - Congress is likely to vote soon on a bill that goes around the normal budget process to funnel an additional $70 billion of taxpayer funds into ICE violence and mass detention plans. Public opposition successfully stopped this in the normal budget process (and has begun to slow this fast-track bill). But Congress is expected to return - [ONE year of source of income protections!](https://neappleseed.org/51106) - Two hundred. That’s the approximate number of landlords one Lincolnite had to call to find one place to rent. They were turned away again and again just because they would use a housing voucher to help pay for rent. Discrimination like this is why the Lincoln for Fair Housing coalition worked to get source of - [Respect Nebraska Voters: Your help needed in final weeks](https://neappleseed.org/51090) - This year, we’ve joined advocates and partners throughout the state collecting signatures to get Respect Nebraska Voters on the ballot this November! Together, we’re going to ensure that our state lawmakers respect the will of the people once voters have spoken at the ballot box. There are only a few weeks left for us to - [Overwhelmed by Your Generosity!](https://neappleseed.org/51085) - For this year’s Give to Lincoln Day, we wanted to celebrate the act of giving. We set an ambitious goal to reach 400 grassroots supporters giving $10 or more to show what’s possible when we all pitch in for a common cause – the same approach we take to our work every single day. Thanks - [Truth Without Trauma: Strengthening Child Protections in Nebraska Courts](https://neappleseed.org/51076) - Guest Post by Nebraska Appleseed Child Welfare Fellow, Jacey Introduction For many children, the courtroom is not just a place of justice; it is a place where trauma is relived. In child welfare cases, decisions are made that directly shape a child’s life, making it critical that youth voices, experiences, and perspectives are meaningfully heard. - [Register Now! Announcing Sessions for "We All Belong In Welcoming"](https://neappleseed.org/50902) - Join community leaders from Nebraska and beyond who are building inclusive and vibrant communities! Join our (virtual) annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to - [Join community members from across Nebraska who are building thriving communities of belonging!](https://neappleseed.org/51057) - See you at Session 1: Roots of Justice - Reflecting on the past, building our future Wednesday, June 3rd from 10:30am-12:00pm CT (9:30-11:00am MT) on Zoom Dear Jaimee, We hope to see you at the first session of this year’s 12th-annual (virtual) statewide welcoming convening series, where we’ll share ideas and inspiration for community inclusion - [Take Action Party on Monday: NO to billions more for ICE violence & detention](https://neappleseed.org/51049) - Have you made your calls to Nebraska’s members of Congress yet? This upcoming vote on billions of additional tax dollars allocated to ICE violence is a really important one: Congress is expected to vote next week on a bill that goes around the normal budget process to give ICE and CBP (and the ballroom) an - [Proposed Federal Rule Changes Would Harm Nebraska Renters](https://neappleseed.org/51022) - No matter our race, gender, or income, when every Nebraskan can afford a place to live, our communities will not only be better, they will be stronger. Unfortunately, our federal government recently proposed various changes to federal housing programs that will undermine the ability of Nebraska renters to maintain a safe, affordable home. Over the - [Intervention in federal lawsuit to defend Nebraska’s in-state tuition law](https://neappleseed.org/51016) - On Thursday, Nebraska Appleseed and Democracy Forward, representing Orel Alliance and the True Potential Scholarship, moved to intervene in federal court to defend Nebraska’s longstanding in-state tuition law, which makes higher education affordable for all students who graduated from Nebraska high schools. Recently, the federal government filed a lawsuit challenging a 2006 Nebraska law that - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress NO to billions more for ICE violence and detention](https://neappleseed.org/51012) - Congress is currently considering a bill that goes around the normal budget process to give ICE and CBP (and the ballroom) an additional $72 billion. These funds would come on top of an unprecedented $170 billion allocated just last year to dramatically expand ICE and CBP operations, which has funded mass detentions and shocking violence against people, substantially - [Update on McCook residents’ lawsuit to stop the ICE detainment camp](https://neappleseed.org/51004) - Last fall, more than 18,300 Nebraskans from 386 towns and cities signed a petition to stop Governor Pillen from opening a large-scale federal detainment camp in our state, saying “This is NOT who we are” – and we filed a lawsuit on behalf of McCook residents to prevent this harmful expansion of ICE mass detention. Though the lawsuit was dismissed in - [May is for Give to Lincoln Day](https://neappleseed.org/50999) - May is for Give to Lincoln Day! From today through May 28, you can make a difference by supporting Nebraska Appleseed. This year, we’ve set a stretch goal to reach 400 grassroots supporters giving $10 or more. Even small amounts make a big difference when we all pitch in together as a community! Your gift - [TAKE ACTION: Urge the Lincoln City Council to Restore Fair Pay for Lincoln Workers!](https://neappleseed.org/50981) - On Monday, May 4, the Lincoln City Council will hold a public hearing on Councilmember James Michael Bowers’ proposal to ensure that Lincolnites are paid a fair wage by restoring the wage protections the state legislature recently removed. In 2022, almost 60% of Nebraska voters – and 7 out of 10 Lincoln voters – approved the Raise the Wage Nebraska - [We Need Your Help: Work Requirements Begin for Nebraskans TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/50995) - Medicaid Expansion Work Requirements Start May 1, 2026 for Some Adults Under a new law passed by Congress and signed by President Trump, Nebraska Medicaid expansion enrollees will have to meet work requirements or prove an exemption to get coverage. Even though our state is unprepared, Governor Pillen is starting these requirements 8 months early - [Wait, restricting Nebraska SNAP food purchases costs how much?](https://neappleseed.org/50948) - Image of Governor Pillen at press conference announcing food restrictions for Nebraska SNAP on April, 7 2025 Last Thursday, April 23, 2026, Nebraska DHHS announced that in addition to soda and energy drinks, candy would also be restricted from purchases using SNAP benefits in Nebraska. The projected implementation date is November 1, 2026. In addition - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress yet again NO additional billions for ICE violence](https://neappleseed.org/50929) - Congress is yet again starting a process to designate additional billions of our tax dollars for out-of-control ICE agents on top of unprecedented billions already passed last summer through the big budget bill. Despite strong public opinion against additional funding after witnessing ICE violence kill multiple people, a ballooning federal agent force overwhelming local communities - [RELEASE: Appeal filed in lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp](https://neappleseed.org/50921) - ***For Immediate Release***April 23, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Appeal filed in lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp The suit asserts the Governor exceeded his authority under state law Today, Nebraska Appleseed filed an appeal in the lawsuit, Schimek v. Pillen, which seeks to halt - [ACTION ALERT:Tell Congress the Farm Bill must strengthen SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/50923) - ​This is an opportunity for you to remind your members of Congress that EVERYONE needs food - and that keeping our communities fed is non-negotiable. The House Agriculture Committee recently advanced its version of the Farm Bill (the Farm, Food & National Security Act), and it is likely to go to the House floor for a vote soon. The - [At the Capitol: 2026 Legislative Wrap-up](https://neappleseed.org/50900) - Last Friday, the 2026 Nebraska legislative session officially ended! Four Important Bills Signed Into Law Governor Pillen signed into law four important bills that will ensure Nebraskans are supported throughout the state: ✅ LB304 helps parents afford the child care they need by maintaining the child care subsidy’s income eligibility level, which is otherwise set to decrease this - [Nebraska Appleseed 2026 Priority Bills Legislative Wrap-up](https://neappleseed.org/50895) - The 2026 Nebraska Legislative Session officially ended on Friday, April 17. The Legislature introduced more than 500 new bills and proposed constitutional amendments this session, and we saw the following Appleseed priority bills signed into law: Supporting young people navigating the child welfare system ✅ LB1032 recognizes tribal customary adoptions in Nebraska state law, ensuring - [Upcoming Events: Connect with other Welcomers!](https://neappleseed.org/50890) - We wanted to highlight a few upcoming webinars and convenings and learning opportunities to support your welcoming and inclusion goals. Welcoming Week 2026 Welcoming Week is an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate the values that make places more welcoming and inclusive for all who live there. In the months leading up to - [LB966 Hunger Free Schools Act becomes law!](https://neappleseed.org/50888) - The Nebraska legislative session wrapped up Friday and senators successfully passed LB966, the Hunger Free Schools Act, which will feed more kids in Nebraska schools! For a five year period starting next year, kids who qualify for reduced-price meals (in families with incomes between 130-185% FPL) will get those meals for free. A huge thank - [Bill Recognizing Tribal Customary Adoptions Becomes Law!](https://neappleseed.org/50839) - Yesterday, ✅ LB1032, which recognizes tribal customary adoptions in Nebraska state law, was approved by the Governor - officially becoming state law! LB1032, introduced by Senator Wendy DeBoer and prioritized by the State-Tribal Relations Committee, is a major step forward in honoring the values, traditions, and beliefs of Native families across Nebraska. Tribal customary adoptions (“TCAs”) - [TAKE ACTION:Call your Representative to support TPS stability and Haitian community members!](https://neappleseed.org/50816) - Today and tomorrow, the House of Representatives will be taking important votes on H.R. 1689, a positive solution that would support Temporary Protected Status (TPS) stability for local communities and safety for Haitian neighbors, business owners, caregivers, and faith leaders who have been in the U.S. for decades and are essential parts of communities across - [At the Capitol: 2026 Legislative Session ends this Friday](https://neappleseed.org/50814) - Welcome to the final week of the 2026 Nebraska legislative session, which is scheduled to end this Friday, April 17. Last week: Several bills passed on Final Reading Last week, several important bills passed on Final Reading and are awaiting the governor’s signature to be officially signed into law: ✅ LB304 helps parents afford the - [TAKE ACTION: Harmful Federal Housing Rules Proposed](https://neappleseed.org/50794) - We should all have the freedom to live in a safe, affordable, and accessible home. Our federal government protects that freedom through rental assistance programs that help more than 10 million people – 3.2 million of whom are children – keep a roof over their heads. As costs skyrocket, we need stable housing as much - [At the Capitol: Critical bills up for debate TODAY!](https://neappleseed.org/50792) - The 2026 Legislative Session is wrapping up with its last full week this week! Follow along: You can livestream all legislative happenings through Nebraska Public Media. Today: Critical Bills up for Debate Last week, several important bills advanced to select file, all of which are up for debate as soon as TODAY: ✅ LB304 helps - [ALERT: Senators will debate Hunger-Free Schools Act today](https://neappleseed.org/50785) - Today,Thursday, April 2, senators will debate ✅ LB966 (M. Cavanaugh), aka the Hunger-Free Schools Act, on General File. This bill would make more students in families with low incomes eligible for free school meals. Families eligible for reduced-price school meals (e.g. those earning between 130% and 185% FPL or $3573 and $5,087 per month for - [At the Capitol: Important bills up for debate TODAY!](https://neappleseed.org/50782) - We’re in the final days of the 2026 Legislative Session! Follow along: You can livestream all legislative happenings through Nebraska Public Media. Yesterday: LB304 advanced to select file! Last night, ✅ LB304 advanced to select file. This bill helps parents afford the child care they need by maintaining the child care subsidy’s income eligibility level, which is otherwise set to - [TAKE ACTION: LB958 is Up for Debate TODAY! Tell Your Senator to Protect Medicaid Retroactive Coverage.](https://neappleseed.org/50777) - The fight to protect Medicaid retroactive coverage is now at the Capitol. ✅ LB958, which protects this coverage, is up for debate today. We know Nebraskans value Medicaid’s retroactive coverage – over 1,200 comments were submitted within the last few weeks telling DHHS to abandon its harmful proposal to eliminate retroactive coverage for all Medicaid - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed legal intervention accepted in support of fair housing ordinance](https://neappleseed.org/50657) - Nearly 66% of Lincolnites voted in May to ban housing discrimination based on a renter or buyer‘s source of income LINCOLN, NE – In September 2025, a group of landlords filed a lawsuit to challenge Lincoln’s recently-enacted ban on housing discrimination based on a renter or buyer‘s source of income. Nebraska Appleseed, on behalf of two - [RELEASE: Lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp dismissed](https://neappleseed.org/50763) - ***For Immediate Release***March 27, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp dismissed The suit asserted the Governor exceeded his authority under state law LINCOLN, NE - Today, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng dismissed the lawsuit, Schimek v. Pillen, that - [ACTION ALERT: Protect Access to Affordable Child Care!](https://neappleseed.org/50761) - On Monday, March 30, Senators will debate ✅ LB304 (DeBoer) which helps parents afford the child care they need by maintaining the child care subsidy’s income eligibility level, which is otherwise set to decrease this year. If this bill doesn’t pass this year, over 2,000 families will lose access to funding for child care. The Child Care Subsidy Program is - [At the Capitol: LB1032 Advanced from Committee](https://neappleseed.org/50757) - With only 11 legislative days left, senators will continue all-day debate over the next couple of weeks until we hit Day 60. Debate typically takes place from 9am-12pm and begins again at 1pm. Last week started the session’s late night schedule, which will continue through the end of session. Budget Bill Negotiations Continue Last week, - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress again NO more tax dollars for ICE](https://neappleseed.org/50755) - As news continues about federal use of our tax dollars for mass detainment warehouses (one with a footprint the size of two Yankees Stadiums) utterly contrary to our values, take just a minute to call Congress again in this critical moment to say NO additional money for ICE violence. ICE violence and mass detentions and deportations by ICE make all - [TAKE ACTION: HELP US GET TO 1,000! Tell DHHS NO Eliminating Medicaid Retroactive Coverage](https://neappleseed.org/50750) - As you may know, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) plans to seek federal approval to eliminate retroactive coverage for all Medicaid enrollees, which protects low-income Nebraskans from crippling medical debt and ensures that hospitals can keep their doors open. Over 800 comments have already been submitted telling DHHS to stop pursuing - [At the Capitol: LB304 (Child Care Subsidies) Included in Budget Bill](https://neappleseed.org/50735) - With just 16 days left in the 2026 Legislative Session, senators will continue their all-day debate on Speaker and personal priority bills. Debate typically takes place from 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-5pm, with the potential to go later into the evening starting this week. LB304 (Child Care Subsidies) Included in Budget Bill Last week, the Legislature's Appropriations - [At the Capitol: Budget and priority bill debate](https://neappleseed.org/50709) - We are officially over 2/3rds of the way through the 2026 Legislative Session! This Week: Budget Deficit and Priority Bill Debate This week, senators will focus on the budget and continue to debate priority bills. Debate typically takes place from 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-5pm, with the potential to go later into the evening starting next week. (Learn more - [TAKE ACTION: Tell DHHS NO to Eliminating Medicaid Retroactive Coverage](https://neappleseed.org/50706) - The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced in February that it plans to seek federal approval to eliminate retroactive coverage for all Medicaid enrollees, which protects low-income Nebraskans from crippling medical debt and ensures that hospitals can keep their doors open. Medicaid retroactive coverage covers health care bills for low-income Medicaid enrollees for a certain - [RELEASE: House Agriculture Committee Advances Farm Bill that Offers No Support for Nebraskans Struggling with Food Insecurity](https://neappleseed.org/50700) - ***For Immediate Release***March 5, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: House Agriculture Committee Advances Farm Bill that Offers No Support for Nebraskans Struggling with Food Insecurity LINCOLN, NE – Yesterday, the House of Representatives Agriculture Committee advanced a version of the Farm Bill, which is omnibus legislation that sets - [Join Us March 14 in Omaha to Learn About Medicaid Work Requirements Coming to Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/50665) - You’re invited to join Nebraska Appleseed at 3Sisters in Omaha on Saturday, March 14. Stop by anytime between 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM to learn about the Medicaid work requirements coming to Nebraska in May. Together we’ll: Review what we know about the new Medicaid expansion work requirements and copays Have open conversations about the - [Our Voices, Our Why: Youth-Led Futures & Community Belonging](https://neappleseed.org/50661) - You’re invited to join us for Our Voices, Our Why: Youth-Led Futures & Community Belonging, a community conversation centered on listening to and learning from young people with lived experience: Our Voices, Our Why: Youth-Led Futures & Community BelongingSaturday, April 4 from 2:30 - 4:00 pmAstute Coffee(1818 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE) Registration is encouraged but - [At the Capitol: All-day debate begins today](https://neappleseed.org/50655) - The Legislature is officially done with bill hearings and moved into all-day debate this week. Debate will focus exclusively on priority bills and will typically take place from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm CT, with the potential to go later into the evening starting the week of March 17. - [2026 Nebraska Appleseed Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/50652) - We are officially more than halfway through the 2026 Legislative Session! Last week, senators and committees finalized and designated their personal priority bills for the session. We are excited to share that several Appleseed priority bills have been prioritized, and we’ll be sure to share updates as these bills move through the legislative process. Here - [TAKE ACTION: Critical time to tell Congress NO to more funding for ICE](https://neappleseed.org/50650) - This week, the President addressed the nation in a State of the Union address out of touch with the realities of working families and continuing to spread harmful rhetoric about immigrant neighbors who are part of the fabric of local communities and help make local communities strong. The reality is, mass detentions and deportations by - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to President Trump’s State of the Union Address](https://neappleseed.org/50645) - ***For Immediate Release***February 25, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to President Trump’s State of the Union Address LINCOLN, NE — Last night, President Trump addressed Congress and the nation, highlighting his policies and priorities that have caused enduring harm to countless Nebraskans. Over the - [At the Capitol: Several Appleseed Bills Prioritized!](https://neappleseed.org/50640) - It’s Day 32 today, which means we are officially more than halfway through the 2026 Legislative Session! Last week, senators and committees finalized and designated their personal priority bills for the session. We are excited to share that several Appleseed priority bills have been prioritized (see below), and we’ll be sure to share updates as these - [GOOD NEWS: LB966 - a bill to feed more kids - is voted out of committee!](https://neappleseed.org/50638) - When school meals are free, more kids get the nutrition they need to succeed in class. ✅ LB966, introduced by Sen. Michaela Cavanaugh, would allow Nebraska kids who qualify for reduced-price school meals to get those meals for free. This bill would help around 27,000 kids in low income families avoid fees that can add - [Immigrant SNAP access hearing this week!](https://neappleseed.org/50625) - The federal government just made getting food harder for thousands of immigrant Nebraskans. Our state needs to stand up and say NO! H.R.1, or the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, was passed into law by Congress in July. That law changes eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) in ways that - [SAY NO TO EARLY MEDICAID WORK REQUIREMENTS](https://neappleseed.org/50621) - Take 5 Minutes to Submit a Comment by 11:59 pm CT on Wednesday, Feb. 25! The Governor announced that Nebraska would be the first in the nation to implement the problematic Medicaid expansion work reporting requirements required by the “One Big Beautiful Bill” 8 months before they are supposed to take effect. Recognizing the complexity and harm - [At the Capitol: We’re almost halfway through session!](https://neappleseed.org/50617) - We’re almost halfway through the 2026 Nebraska Legislative Session! Bill hearings will continue in the afternoons through the end of February, and floor debate on the bills that advance out of committees are being heard on the floor each morning. Last Week’s Highlights Last week, we testified or submitted comments on several bills: ✅ LB723, - [TAKE ACTION: Speak up for our neighbors experiencing homelessness!](https://neappleseed.org/50608) - The Nebraska we know and love is a place where neighbors care about each other and want to see each other thrive. Punishing people for experiencing homelessness is cruel and only hurts those that need support the most. ❌ LB925 would ban camping or storing personal property on any public land— targeting anyone who is - [ACTION ALERT: Keep Our Schools Safe for Nebraska Kids!](https://neappleseed.org/50606) - Our schools should be safe spaces of learning, connection, and community for ALL Nebraska children. On Tuesday, February 17, the Education Committee will hold a hearing on ✅ LB1034 (Sen. George Dungan). This bill would keep Nebraska children and learning environments safe by preventing federal ICE agents from entering schools without a judicial warrant – - [At the Capitol: Fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/50597) - It’s Day 24 of the Nebraska Legislature’s 2026 session! We’re at the Capitol every day, continuing to fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Check out last week’s highlights and this week’s key hearings below: Last Week’s Highlights Last week, we testified or submitted comments on several bills and one constitutional amendment: ❌ LB809, - [ACTION ALERT: Support LB966 to get more kids free school meals!](https://neappleseed.org/50600) - All kids should have access to nutritious meals at school – regardless of their family's income. ✅ LB966, the Hunger-Free Schools Act, would make more students eligible for free school meals by using state funds to pay for all “reduced-price” category meals. By making more breakfasts and lunches free, we can reduce stigma, improve learning outcomes, and - [Minimum wage restricted: How your senator voted on LB258](https://neappleseed.org/50580) - Despite thousands of Nebraskans demanding that our Legislature honor the will of voters, 33 senators chose today to undermine our state’s voter-approved minimum wage law by passing ❌LB258 on Final Reading. This bill creates a subminimum wage for workers under the age of 20 and adds restrictions on the cost of living increases that Nebraskans - [TAKE ACTION: Protect our voter-approved paid sick leave law](https://neappleseed.org/50593) - Working families are the engine of our economy. We know that ALL Nebraskans should be able to earn paid sick leave, regardless of age and where they work. Basic paid sick leave also keeps businesses and communities healthy. That’s why nearly 75% of Nebraskans supported paid sick leave at the ballot box in November 2024. - [ACTION ALERT: Speak Up for Immigrant Neighbors! (Harmful State Bill)](https://neappleseed.org/50588) - The vast majority of money earned in Nebraska communities is spent locally and supports local economies. The small amount sent to family members in other countries is an important support that should not face high fees. On Monday, February 9, the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee will hold a hearing on ❌ LB1174 (Sen. Kathleen - [Medicaid Expansion’s Value and the Recommendations for New Federal Work Requirements in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/50575) - Major changes are coming to Nebraska Medicaid. Read our new resources on the importance of the Medicaid expansion program and recommendations to prevent unnecessary coverage loss from new federally mandated work requirements to learn more. Medicaid Expansion Works for Nebraska Medicaid expansion is a critical program that provides access to health care for about 70,000 - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances harmful minimum wage bill, defying constituents](https://neappleseed.org/50573) - ***For Immediate Release***February 5, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances harmful minimum wage bill, defying constituents LB258 directly undermines changes that were overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2022 LINCOLN, NE – Today, 33 senators blatantly disregarded the will of Nebraskans by voting to pass LB258 on Final - [Child Welfare Bills to Look Out for this Legislative Session](https://neappleseed.org/50553) - All children and families should be strengthened, supported, and cared for. This legislative session, we’re watching the following child welfare bills that support young people navigating the child welfare system – and fighting against bills that put young people at risk. Our priority bills for 2026 are: ✅ LB368, introduced by Senator Megan Hunt, creates - [TAKE ACTION: Speak up for Nebraska families and children!](https://neappleseed.org/50546) - Every Nebraskan should have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. During a time of increasing costs for everything from food to housing, it’s more urgent than ever that we give Nebraska’s lowest income families with children a fighting chance to live the good life. TOMORROW, Thursday, February 5, the Health and Human Services Committee - [ACTION ALERT: Nebraska’s minimum wage is under attack (again)](https://neappleseed.org/50529) - Last year, Nebraskans came together to tell the Legislature HANDS OFF our voter-approved minimum wage law. Now, ❌ LB258 (Raybould) – a bill that will harm workers by severely weakening Nebraska’s minimum wage law by carving out a subminimum wage for young workers AND placing a harmful cap on the cost of living increases that - [At the Capitol: Important hearings this week!](https://neappleseed.org/50524) - Last week, the Legislature continued hearings and floor debate. Floor debate will continue to take place in the mornings, and hearings will be held in the afternoons. Hearings are currently scheduled to run through February 29. Last Week’s Highlights Last week, we testified or submitted comments on several bills: ❌ LB730 (Kauth) prohibits schools and - [Nebraska Food Access Bills 2026](https://neappleseed.org/50504) - Our communities thrive when we look out for one another, especially during times of change or hardship. Nebraskans are going through exactly that with food assistance right now as cuts from the federal reconciliation bill (H.R.1) take effect. This legislative session, we’re watching three positive food access bills that take on changes from H.R.1 directly. - [Partial Gov't Shutdown does NOT impact SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/50522) - You may have seen that over the weekend, a partial federal government shutdown started due to many concerns about funding harmful immigration enforcement tactics. This is a partial shutdown that DOES NOT IMPACT SNAP BENEFITS. Last year’s shutdown in October and November had huge impacts on SNAP, so we wanted to make sure this was - [TAKE ACTION: Bills protecting access to health care are up for consideration next week!](https://neappleseed.org/50517) - Nebraskans know how important health care is for our families and friends, but our access to health care is under attack. Two bills up for consideration in the Nebraska Legislature next week help protect Nebraskans’ access to health care after Congress passed historic cuts to Medicaid in their HR1 bill last summer. TAKE ACTION TO - [TAKE ACTION: Defend our right to housing!](https://neappleseed.org/50512) - We all deserve a safe, affordable, and stable place to call home – and our communities are strongest when housing is accessible to everyone regardless of their source of income. Housing is unaffordable for 40% of Nebraska renters, forcing families to sacrifice necessities to make ends meet. Public assistance programs – such as Section 8 - [Belonging Demands Action - Now More Than Ever](https://neappleseed.org/50498) - We write to you all with heavy hearts, knowing that the words that follow are not shared lightly. We speak with clarity about the truth of what has occurred. Across the United States, people are grieving, coming together and resisting harm carried out by our own federal government. As a network rooted in belonging and - [Hate Incidents & Anti-Bullying Resources](https://neappleseed.org/49457) - Most of us would do whatever it takes to keep our families safe and secure—whether we were born here or came here seeking a better future. Right now, we have heard of a concerning increase in hate incidents in communities all across Nebraska. This is not who we are. Division and hateful rhetoric cause fear - [Nebraska To End Practice of Taking Foster Youth’s Survivor Benefits](https://neappleseed.org/50495) - Yesterday, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen signed an executive order, directing Nebraska to stop using young people’s survivor benefits to pay for their foster care. This is a HUGE win for young people and their families, rightfully acknowledging that these are their benefits – not the State’s. The Governor’s Executive Order not only orders Nebraska to - [TAKE ACTION: Tell the Senate – NO to more funding for ICE violence](https://neappleseed.org/50486) - After two killings in three weeks by federal ICE agents in Minneapolis, the U.S. Senate is scheduled to vote as early as this afternoon or sometime this week on a funding package with additional billions for ICE violence. Calls and emails matter — especially right now. TAKE ACTION TODAY: Tell our Nebraska Senators Fischer and - [At the Capitol: Bill Introduction Complete, 2026 Appleseed Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/50483) - Last week, the Legislature completed its ten days of new bill introduction with more than 500 new bills and proposed constitutional amendments introduced this session. You can click here to view the entire list of introduced bills. Hearings have also begun and will continue through the end of February. Floor debate will happen in the - [2026 Nebraska Appleseed Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/50476) - The Nebraska Legislature introduced more than 500 new bills and proposed constitutional amendments this session and we’re ready to fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans at the Capitol! Nebraska Appleseed Priority Bills Here are some of the newly introduced legislative priorities that Appleseed is supporting during the 2026 session. ⤵️ Supporting young people - [Help get the word out about the Child Care Tax Credit for Parents & Guardians!](https://neappleseed.org/50473) - Remember back in 2021 when everyone in the US with kids got an extra few hundred dollars every month, and a few hundred more in their 2021 tax return? And then research showed that policy - the expanded federal child tax credit - cut child poverty by 46%? We thought that was pretty great! While - [Health Access State Bill Watch: Nebraskans’ Care on the Line](https://neappleseed.org/50441) - Nebraskans care about our health and the health of our communities, but Nebraskans’ access to care is under attack. From Congress gutting our health care system and kicking tens of thousands of Nebraskans off of their health care in their “One Big Beautiful Bill” to our state’s significant budget shortfalls, our health care, and the sustainability of our - [TAKE ACTION: Bills seek to repeal Nebraska’s successful in-state tuition policy](https://neappleseed.org/50453) - Two harmful bills attempting to repeal Nebraska’s successful in-state tuition policy of 20 years will have a hearing this coming Monday, January 26: ❌ Harmful Changes to In-State Tuition: LB870, introduced by Senator Bob Anderson, and LB1061, introduced by Senator Dave Murman, would repeal Nebraska’s successful education policy of 20 years that ensures Nebraska youth - [2026 Nebraska Legislative Session begins today!](https://neappleseed.org/50375) - Welcome to 2026! Today is the first day of the Nebraska Legislature’s 2026 session. This will be a short, 60-day session and is scheduled to end on April 17. Today’s agenda includes new bill introductions that will run every day from now through Day 10 on January 21. Since this is the second session of the biennial Nebraska Legislature, - [At the Capitol: Several ApplEseed Priority bills introduced](https://neappleseed.org/50418) - Last week, the Nebraska Legislature officially kicked off its 2026 session! New bill introduction began last week and will continue through Wednesday, January 21 (Day 10). We will keep you posted on key pieces of legislation that are introduced over the next several days. Floor debate on bills will begin this week and hearings will start - [At the Capitol: Hearings start this week!](https://neappleseed.org/50432) - Last week, we wrapped up the first full week of the Legislature’s 2026 session. Today is the last day of bill introduction, and we will know the full list of new legislation for this session by noon today. (Click here for a list of everything introduced so far.) Hearings started yesterday and will continue through - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress NO to more funding for ICE violence, abuses & detention beds](https://neappleseed.org/50427) - People across the country are horrified by what we are witnessing in ICE violence, and we have a critical window to demand accountability. Budget negotiations are underway, which means Congress has the power to rein in these out-of-control agencies. TAKE ACTION From our friends at National Immigration Law Center, see this summary: What you need - [RELEASE: Nebraska unlawfully shared private SNAP data with USDA in July 2025](https://neappleseed.org/49850) - ***For Immediate Release***September 17, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska DHHS unlawfully shared private SNAP data with USDA in July 2025 LINCOLN, NE – In May 2025, the US Department of Agriculture and DOGE sent notices to all states requiring them to hand over the personal data - [Release: Nebraska Appleseed Response to the Governor's State of the State](https://neappleseed.org/50422) - For Immediate ReleaseJanuary 15, 2026 Contact:Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications DirectorNebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to the Governor’s State of the State LINCOLN, NE – Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State address: “Far too many of our neighbors are struggling - [Invitation: Webinar on Food Bills and Action in the Nebraska Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/50416) - Food is essential. Let’s talk about how we can advocate to protect food access in the wake of rising prices and devastating federal cuts to SNAP. Join us virtually on Thursday, January 22 from 6:00-7:30 pm CT to learn about the state of SNAP in Nebraska and the food access bills that have been introduced in the 2026 Nebraska - [ALERT: Stolen January SNAP Benefits and Steps to Protect Future Benefits](https://neappleseed.org/50378) - We’ve seen very recent reports of a large number of Nebraskans having their SNAP benefits stolen because of skimming the past few days. Skimming is a scam where hidden devices are used to steal card information and benefits during transactions at grocery stores. To help protect yourself now and in the future, please take the - [TAKE ACTION: Congress is letting health care costs skyrocket for Nebraskans - tell them to make it right!](https://neappleseed.org/50368) - Despite your tireless advocacy last year, Congress failed to extend the enhanced tax credits that help over 100,000 Nebraskans afford their health care through the Marketplace. This means many Nebraskans are now paying far more for their premiums, opting for worse coverage with higher out-of-pocket costs, or are now going without insurance because of the - [Gather signatures for Respect Nebraska Voters!](https://neappleseed.org/50344) - Today, Appleseed gathered with advocates from across the state to celebrate the launch of the Respect Nebraska Voters ballot initiative campaign! We’re working together to ensure that our state lawmakers respect the will of the people once voters have spoken at the ballot box. This ballot initiative will allow Nebraska voters to vote directly on the issue in the November - [Nebraska’s new minimum wage – and what we must do to protect it](https://neappleseed.org/50336) - Today, Nebraska’s minimum wage increased for workers across the state to $15.00/hour! Starting on January 1, 2027, our minimum wage will be adjusted every year to account for cost of living increases. This increase is the direct result of years-long efforts by a coalition of organizations, leaders, and community advocates who worked tirelessly in support - [RELEASE: Nebraska workers receive another wage increase because of Initiative 433](https://neappleseed.org/50334) - ***For Immediate Release***January 1, 2026 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska workers receive another wage increase because of Initiative 433 The increase to $15.00/hour is the fourth in a series of raises LINCOLN, NE – Today, Nebraska’s minimum wage increased for workers across the state to $15.00/hour. Starting on January - [Release: Nebraska Hastily Implementing Work Requirements Will Cause Tens of Thousands to Unnecessarily Lose Medicaid Coverage](https://neappleseed.org/50322) - ***For Immediate Release***December 17, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Hastily Implementing Work Requirements Will Cause Tens of Thousands to Unnecessarily Lose Medicaid Coverage LINCOLN, NE – This morning, Governor Jim Pillen announced that Nebraska will be the first in the nation to move forward with implementing work requirements - [Important action as part of your holidays: Immigration laws that create stability](https://neappleseed.org/50317) - As we gather with family and friends for the holiday season, too many Nebraska families and long-time community members continue to face impossible and unnecessary uncertainty and direct harm because of long outdated immigration laws – with ripple effects that impact families, workplaces, whole communities, all of us. This year, we have seen unprecedented attacks - [Dental Coverage and Nebraska Medicaid - 2025 Update](https://neappleseed.org/50300) - Oral health is key to overall health. Improved access to oral health care presents a wide range of benefits, from improving individual health to addressing racial disparities to supporting the economy. Even though dental care is vital, access to dental care remains an urgent and often out-of-reach need for Nebraskans with Medicaid coverage. Sierra, a - [Nebraska SNAP Soda and Energy Drink Restrictions Start Jan. 1](https://neappleseed.org/50301) - When calendars turn over to 2026, we hope you will be celebrating and making plans for a great new year! We also want to make sure you’re aware that Nebraska’s new SNAP soda and energy drink restrictions will be in place as of January 1, 2026. This means that Nebraska retailers will no longer allow - [Tell Congress to act NOW to keep health care affordable](https://neappleseed.org/50294) - Time is running out for Congress to extend the enhanced tax credits that help over 100,000 Nebraskans afford their Marketplace health care coverage. Congress must pass an extension of these tax credits before the end of the year, or else tens of thousands of Nebraskans will see their premiums skyrocket overnight, and thousands are expected - [Your impact with Nebraska Appleseed in 2025](https://neappleseed.org/50247) - As we approach 2026, in the midst of many massive challenges, I am heartened by the remarkable number of Nebraskans who have mobilized this year: In less than a week, over 18,000 people from nearly 400 Nebraska communities signed a petition opposing a federal immigration detainment camp in our state. Hundreds have shown up to - [Respect Nebraska Voters ballot measure filed](https://neappleseed.org/50209) - We are excited to announce that Nebraska Appleseed Action Fund / Nebraska Appleseed is part of a new effort to ensure that our state lawmakers respect the will of the people once voters have spoken at the ballot box. This morning, we joined our friends and partners to officially file language for a new ballot - [Great news: November SNAP Benefits are Loaded in Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/50186) - GREAT NEWS DHHS has reported that all delayed November SNAP benefits have been loaded onto EBT cards in Nebraska, putting an end to the chaos and uncertainty caused by the Trump Administration’s inaction and the government shutdown! Partial payments were sent out Wednesday night (with up to 65% of full benefits) after a federal judge - [The federal shutdown has ended, but the fight for affordable health coverage continues.](https://neappleseed.org/50179) - After 43 days, Congress has taken action to end the federal government shutdown by passing a Continuing Resolution (CR) that will fund the government until January 30, 2026. We are extremely disappointed that this CR does not take any action to keep Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace premiums from skyrocketing for thousands of Nebraskans. What’s - [RELEASE: Nebraskans still at risk of losing health coverage as government shutdown ends.](https://neappleseed.org/50176) - ***For Immediate Release***November 13, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraskans still at risk of losing health coverage as government shutdown ends. Congress has failed to extend the expiring enhanced premium tax credits, on which thousands of Nebraskans rely. LINCOLN, NE – After 43 days, Congress has taken action to - [SNAP is on hold: Here is how you can help](https://neappleseed.org/50134) - Yesterday, Nebraska DHHS officially announced that SNAP benefits in Nebraska are on hold for November. That means all 150,000 Nebraska SNAP participants won’t receive their benefits as scheduled on Nov. 1. This is happening because of 1) the federal government shutdown, and 2) the Trump Administration’s refusal to use a SNAP contingency fund that could pay out most - [How the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Slashes Nebraska’s Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/49699) - The “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB), supported by all five members of Nebraska’s delegation and signed by President Trump, guts our health care to give tax breaks to billionaires and fund sweeping, unproductive deportations of everyday working people that will separate families and devastate communities. These cuts will take billions from Nebraska’s health system and - [RELEASE: Ruling issued on lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp](https://neappleseed.org/50124) - ***For Immediate Release***October 27, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Ruling issued on lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp The suit asserts the Governor has exceeded his authority under state law LINCOLN, NE - Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng has issued a ruling in - [Government Shutdown: Nov. SNAP benefits on hold, USDA can and should intervene](https://neappleseed.org/50117) - As of today, the Federal Government shutdown has lasted 24 days, which is affecting nutrition assistance programs across the country. Food benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) for October are safe, but future SNAP benefits, including those for the month of November, - [Important Clarification Regarding Paid Sick Leave in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/50106) - On October 1, 2025, Nebraska workers began accruing paid sick leave through the Nebraska Healthy Families & Workplaces Act (Initiative 436), which was approved by nearly 75% of voters in 2024. This new law gives over 100,000 Nebraskans the right to earn paid sick leave after 80 hours of consecutive employment, at which point workers - [Nebraska is implementing SNAP Eligibility Changes from President Trump’s H.R.1](https://neappleseed.org/50040) - UPDATE: Nebraska DHHS released an FAQ document about changes due to the "One Big Beautiful Bill" on their SNAP webpage on Friday Oct. 17. President Trump signed H.R.1 otherwise known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” into law on July 4 2025, which included major cuts to and eligibility restrictions for public benefit programs including - [RELEASE: Next hearing on unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp scheduled for October 24](https://neappleseed.org/50052) - ***For Immediate Release***October 16, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org Next hearing on unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp scheduled for October 24 The suit asserts the Governor has exceeded his authority under state law LINCOLN, NE - This afternoon, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng heard initial - [RELEASE: McCook Residents file lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp](https://neappleseed.org/50036) - ***For Immediate Release***October 16, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org McCook Residents file lawsuit over unauthorized takeover of Work Ethic Camp The suit asserts the Governor has exceeded his authority under state law LINCOLN, NE - Yesterday, Nebraska Appleseed filed a lawsuit in the District Court of Red Willow - [Stuck Between Borders and Bureaucracy: Intersection of Child Welfare and Immigration](https://neappleseed.org/50012) - By: Abigail Sanchez, Child Welfare Fellow DISCLAIMER: All policies, statistics, and information cited in this blog are current as of September 3rd, 2025. Future changes in law or policy may alter the accuracy of this content. Immigration Enforcement Meets Child Welfare The intersection of immigration enforcement and child welfare has long created challenges for families, - [Congress Must Act NOW to Protect Affordable Health Coverage for Nebraskans: Extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits!](https://neappleseed.org/49534) - Since 2014, the Health Insurance Marketplace established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has provided health coverage to individuals and families. The vast majority of enrollees rely on subsidies to make their monthly premiums affordable. This year, over 135,000 Nebraskans are enrolled in Marketplace coverage. Last year, nearly 93% of Nebraska Marketplace enrollees relied on - [The Shutdown Showdown is About Health Care: Tell Congress TODAY to Extend Marketplace’s Tax Credits!](https://neappleseed.org/50001) - The federal government shutdown is about health care, and we need YOU to tell our members of Congress to reopen the government and to take action to keep health care affordable. Without immediate Congressional action, the cost of Marketplace health care coverage, which covers over 135,000 Nebraskans, will skyrocket for many low and middle income - [Today, Paid Sick Leave becomes law in Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/49964) - Today, thanks to advocates like you, Nebraska workers will begin accruing paid sick leave through the Nebraska Healthy Families & Workplaces Act (Initiative 436), which was approved by nearly 75% of Nebraska voters last November. This new law gives over 100,000 Nebraskans the right to earn paid sick leave after 80 hours of consecutive employment, at which point - [Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/49974) - On October 9, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2025 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes Nebraskans who have made significant contributions to justice - [RELEASE: Nebraska workers gain paid sick leave protections as Initiative 436 becomes law](https://neappleseed.org/49962) - ***For Immediate Release***October 1, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org Nebraska workers gain paid sick leave protections as Initiative 436 becomes law Beginning October 1, 2025, workers in Nebraska will start to accrue paid sick leave LINCOLN, NE – Today, over 100,000 Nebraska workers will begin accruing paid sick time through - [Op-ed: And my son wept](https://neappleseed.org/49954) - By Art Zygielbaum, Nebraska Appleseed Board Member. Originally published in the Lincoln Journal Star. Today I am afraid for this nation, this America where I was born and where I have always lived. My wife, son and I recently traveled to Poland to connect to our roots. We visited the hamlet where my paternal grandfather - [Welcoming Week Continues! More events across Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/49945) - Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond! & Public Calendar of Nebraska Events Nebraskans across the state have kicked off Welcoming Week with a great start and we’re still celebrating! In communities from Scottsbluff to South Sioux City, there are film screenings, dance parties, community art, local business tours, family fun nights & story hours, local - [Stories We Shared - Photos from Welcoming Week 2025 & Beyond!](https://neappleseed.org/49910) - Welcoming Week 2025: Stories We Share Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond! Welcoming Week 2025 has been a beautiful celebration of Nebraska’s cultural richness, inclusion, and building strong connected communities – with a few more events still to come! This year, creative Welcomers across Nebraska are hosting over 70 events in more than 9 communities - [Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/49907) - On October 9, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2025 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award recognizes emerging leaders who have a vision for - [Upcoming Hearing on McCook ICE Detainment Camp](https://neappleseed.org/49826) - Next Friday, September 12, Nebraskans have the opportunity to speak out against opening a large-scale federal detainment camp in McCook. Nebraskans have made it clear: This is not who we are. We do not want to be known as a state that separates families and locks up and detains members of our communities. Make Your - [Reconciliation impacts on SNAP and Child Nutrition programs in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/49674) - In July, Congress passed and President Trump signed a budget reconciliation package which included nearly $200 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). All 5 of Nebraska’s members of congress voted for the bill. This law is predicted to put 17,000 (out of 150,000 total) SNAP participants in Nebraska at risk of - [SNAP Overpayments Resources/Un recurso nuevo para los sobrepagos de SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/49881) - In times like these, it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard - especially with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits. That’s why Nebraska Appleseed has developed resources to support people dealing with SNAP overpayments. This is for you if you have received a demand letter from DHHS sharing that you’ve been overpaid - [TAKE ACTION: Important Next Steps for Positive Immigration Laws](https://neappleseed.org/49873) - After finding out the horrific news from Governor Jim Pillen about ICE plans to repurpose a Nebraska facility as a large-scale federal detainment camp, thank you for taking important action together with more than 18,000 Nebraskans from communities all across the state, letting the Governor know: This is not who we are. We are grateful to each - [Roots of justice award](https://neappleseed.org/49852) - On October 9, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2025 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots advocates who have made outstanding contributions to justice - [Roots of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/49839) - On October 9, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2025 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots advocates who have made outstanding contributions to justice - [RELEASE: Housing discrimination lawsuit seeks to undermine the will of Lincoln voters](https://neappleseed.org/49831) - ***For Immediate Release***September 8, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Housing discrimination lawsuit seeks to undermine the will of Lincoln voters Nearly 66% of Lincolnites voted in May to ban housing discrimination based on a renter or buyer‘s source of income LINCOLN, NE — Last Thursday, a lawsuit - [Seeds of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/49810) - On October 9, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2025 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Seeds of Justice Award honors outstanding legal contributions to public interest law and/or - [Welcoming Week events across Nebraska! September 13-22](https://neappleseed.org/49801) - Welcoming Week 2025 is here! Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond!& Public Calendar of Nebraska Events Welcoming Week is a great opportunity to get to know neighbors – new and old – to build strong and connected communities, to embrace the universal values of welcoming places, and to celebrate culture, helping everyone to belong and - [18,300 Petition Signatures Turned in to Governor Pillen Today](https://neappleseed.org/49757) - In less than a week, over 18,300 Nebraskans from 386 Nebraska communities signed a petition urging Governor Pillen to oppose opening a large-scale federal detainment camp anywhere in Nebraska. Today, Nebraska Appleseed delivered the petition with voices from across the state to Governor Pillen. Last week, Governor Jim Pillen announced that ICE has plans to - [RELEASE: Over 18,300 Nebraskans call on Governor Pillen to stop large-scale federal detainment camp](https://neappleseed.org/49755) - ***For Immediate Release***August 28, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Over 18,300 Nebraskans call on Governor Pillen to stop large-scale federal detainment camp LINCOLN, NE – In less than a week, over 18,300 Nebraskans from 386 Nebraska communities signed a petition urging Governor Pillen to oppose opening a - [RELEASE: 8th Circuit Court of Appeals Upholds Dismissal of Nebraska Medicaid Enrollee’s Lawsuit on Jurisdictional Grounds](https://neappleseed.org/49750) - ***For Immediate Release***August 27, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: 8th Circuit Court of Appeals Upholds Dismissal of Nebraska Medicaid Enrollee’s Lawsuit on Jurisdictional Grounds Appellate court did not reach the merits regarding unconstitutional medicaid terminations LINCOLN, NE – Today, a panel of the 8th Circuit Court of - [Tell the Governor NO ICE detainment camps in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/49723) - This week, Governor Jim Pillen announced that ICE has plans to repurpose a facility in McCook, Nebraska as a large-scale federal detainment camp. The 200 capacity building will be used to incarcerate up to 300 immigrant community members from Nebraska and surrounding states. This is part of a harmful, dangerous and rapid national expansion of - [RELEASE: Response to Proposed ICE Detention Facility in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/49711) - ***For Immediate Release***August 19, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Response To Proposed ICE Detention Facility in Nebraska Nebraskans want immigration policy change, not punishment. LINCOLN, NE – Today it was reported on and confirmed by Governor Jim Pillen that ICE has plans to use Nebraska as part of nationwide - [RELEASE: Nebraska Statewide Organizations Announce Broad Support for Positive Immigration Laws](https://neappleseed.org/47620) - ***For Immediate Release***September 18, 2024Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.orgSee list of multi-organization media contacts below. Nebraska Statewide Organizations Announce Broad Support for Positive Immigration Laws That Support Thriving Nebraska Communities, Families, & Workforce Diverse rural, urban, agriculture, health care, hospitality, education, construction, business, labor, faith, immigrant & community perspectives urge action - [Nebraska Alliance For Thriving Communities: Letter to Nebraska's Congressional Delegation](https://neappleseed.org/49642) - July 31, 2025 Dear members of Nebraska’s Congressional delegation, We write with urgency after the recent new announcement to end work authorization for longstanding Nebraska families and employees who have been a valuable part of local communities for 20 and 30 years. The termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for community members from Honduras and - [Congress made a mess. Now Nebraska has to deal with it.](https://neappleseed.org/49637) - Last month, Congress passed a budget reconciliation bill that includes over $1 trillion in cuts to programs that keep our communities healthy and strong – all to pay for tax breaks for billionaires and sweeping, unproductive deportations of everyday working people that will separate families and devastate communities. All five members of Nebraka’s delegation – - [Help meet this year's challenges and fight for a brighter future tomorrow.](https://neappleseed.org/49464) - Now through Sunday, August 10th, when you become a monthly sustainer, you’ll receive a social justice poster of your choice as a way for us to say thank you for supporting Appleseed’s mission and advocacy. Become a monthly sustainer today Familia by Justin Kemerling Foster Care by Anthony Banks Soil of Friendship by Ella Durham - [You’re Invited: Join Us to Celebrate 60 Years of Medicaid!](https://neappleseed.org/49433) - Join Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, ACLU Nebraska, and Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, July 31 from 5-7pm in Omaha to recognize Medicaid's legacy and call on Nebraska’s state and federal elected officials to defend and strengthen access to health care. 60 Years of Medicaid: Celebrate and Protect Our Health Care Thursday, July 315:00 PM - - [The 2025 Good Apple Awards Honorees](https://neappleseed.org/49397) - Join us for the 2025 Good Apple Awards on Thursday, October 9 at the Livestock Exchange Ballroom in Omaha. Social hour with an hors d’oeuvres dinner and live music begins at 6:00 pm with a short program to follow at 7:00 pm. Purchase your tickets or become a sponsor of the 2025 Good Apple Awards - [Congress passed their devastating budget bill. The fight now moves to our state.](https://neappleseed.org/49376) - Today, the US House of Representatives passed the Senate’s version of a devastating budget reconciliation bill that will rip away health care and food access from tens of thousands of Nebraskans in order to fund tax breaks for billionaires and sweeping deportations of everyday working people that will separate families. The bill will now head to the President’s desk to - [RELEASE: Nebraska’s Members of Congress vote to slash health care and food access to separate families](https://neappleseed.org/49371) - ***For Immediate Release***July 3, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska’s Members of Congress vote to slash health care and food access to separate families The House of Representatives finalized passage of the budget reconciliation bill that will cause irreparable harm to Nebraskans for decades to come LINCOLN, NE - [Public Hearing on Nebraska SNAP Soda Restriction is Tuesday](https://neappleseed.org/49365) - The USDA recently approved Nebraska’s waiver to restrict soda and energy drinks purchased with SNAP benefits. These restrictions do not make people healthier, but do make people hungrier, while also making SNAP recipients second class citizens when buying groceries. Food and the dignity of making our own choices at the store should be accessible to - [TAKE ACTION: Final Passage Vote for Reconciliation Bill Soon](https://neappleseed.org/49362) - It’s possible there’s just one more vote before Congress could pass the devastating budget reconciliation bill that will rip away health care and food access from tens of thousands of Nebraskans, all while funding tax breaks for billionaires and sweeping deportations of everyday working people that will separate families. We know you’ve been sending emails, - [RELEASE: US Senate Passes Budget That Will Devastate Nebraska Communities](https://neappleseed.org/49359) - For Immediate ReleaseJuly 1, 2025 Contact:Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications DirectorNebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: US Senate Passes Budget That Will Devastate Nebraska CommunitiesThe Senate takes the same destructive path as the House, advancing a bill that will result in tens of thousands of Nebraskans losing access to healthcare and food LINCOLN, NE – Today, the U.S. - [Welcoming Week Coming Soon! September 12-21](https://neappleseed.org/49332) - Welcoming Week 2025: Stories We Share Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond! Every year, in communities across Nebraska and across the country and globe, community members host a variety of learning, celebration, arts, culture, and other events during and beyond Welcoming Week! Welcoming Week is a meaningful time to connect with both new and longtime - [TAKE ACTION: Congress won’t stop hearing from us: NO CUTS TO OUR CARE!](https://neappleseed.org/49328) - We want to thank the over 100 Nebraskans who showed up in the rain this week to a health care town hall we co-hosted with ACS CAN to tell our members of Congress — NO cuts to our care. From community members with Medicaid, to medical providers, to parents of children with disabilities who rely - [RELEASE: Statewide Nebraska Partners Call on Congress After Immigration Actions Damage Local Communities](https://neappleseed.org/49281) - ***For Immediate Release***June 20, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.orgSee multi-organization media contacts below. Nebraska Statewide Partners Across Sectors Call on Congress After Worksite Enforcement Actions Damage Local Communities Overwhelming impact on people and workplaces are symptoms of a broader 40-year policy failure by Congress NEBRASKA – The Nebraska Alliance for - [Tell the Senate NO to devastating cuts to health care & food programs to fund separating families & tax cuts for the wealthy!](https://neappleseed.org/49307) - The Senate is getting closer to voting on their version of the House-passed budget reconciliation bill. This bill will devastate healthcare, food access, and other basic-needs programs in order to fund tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires and sweeping deportations of longtime community members. As the Senate continues to debate their version of the bill, - [TAKE ACTION: After this week’s raids, Senate budget bills prioritize separating families](https://neappleseed.org/49268) - This has been a difficult week as family members, friends, and all of us have been experiencing the impacts of devastating ICE raids in Omaha that have detained Nebraska neighbors and are causing destabilizing ripple effects across the community and throughout the state. As everyone is working to support and respond, don’t forget to contact - [At the Capitol: 2025 Legislative Session Wrap-up](https://neappleseed.org/49258) - Last Monday, the Legislature adjourned sine die, meaning the body has concluded its work for the session. Despite some obstacles and disappointments, we are proud of how hard our team, partners, and supporters worked to advance justice and opportunity for Nebraska families and communities, including on some key Appleseed priorities. Wrapping up Appleseed’s 2025 Legislative - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed condemns sweeping ICE raids throughout communities in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/49251) - ***For Immediate Release***June 10, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed condemns sweeping ICE raids throughout communities in Omaha Communities and families should not be torn apart while waiting to work through long, outdated, and complicated immigration processes. LINCOLN, NE – Today, Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted sweeping - [Critical Child Welfare Bill (LB275) Becomes Law!](https://neappleseed.org/49204) - This week, ✅ LB275, Senator Megan Hunt’s priority bill to protect foster youth’s access to their social security benefits, officially became state law. This policy will have a huge impact on young people throughout the state! For years, youth in Nebraska’s foster care system who receive social security benefits have had their benefits taken by - [RELEASE: LB275, bill to protect foster youth’s Social Security benefits, becomes law](https://neappleseed.org/49229) - LB275 will protect foster youth’s access to their social security benefits For Immediate ReleaseJune 6, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116Mobile: (402) 612-0241sierrasp@neappleseed.org LINCOLN, NE – Today, LB275, officially becomes state law. This bill, introduced and prioritized by Senator Megan Hunt, protects foster youth’s access to their social security - [Critical SNAP Bill (LB192) Becomes Law!](https://neappleseed.org/49202) - Today, ✅ LB192, Senator Quick’s SNAP Eligibility bill, officially becomes state law. Passing this policy has been a priority for Nebraskans and Nebraska Appleseed for many years! LB192: Maintains Nebraska’s current SNAP income eligibility level (which would have gone down significantly this October without action); Continues to reduce the SNAP benefits cliff, which happens when - [RELEASE: LB192, SNAP Income Eligibility Bill, Becomes Law](https://neappleseed.org/49200) - ***For Immediate Release***June 4, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: LB192, SNAP Income Eligibility Bill, Becomes Law LB192 maintains SNAP access for 10,000 Nebraskans LINCOLN, NE – Today, LB192, introduced by Senator Dan Quick, which permanently extends Nebraska’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) income eligibility limit, has officially - [At the Capitol: Session has officially concluded for the year!](https://neappleseed.org/49209) - Yesterday, the Legislature adjourned sine die, meaning the body has concluded its work for the session. Several Appleseed priority bills came up for Final Reading last week. Here’s an update on what happened: LB192 (SNAP access) passed on Final Reading ✅ LB192 (Quick) passed 41-8 on Final Reading. (See how your senator voted here.) This - [Nebraska Summer Nutrition Programs are Here!](https://neappleseed.org/49195) - Each year, when kids are let out of school for summer, we know that some kids can have less access to nourishing meals. To make up for cafeterias being closed, Nebraska Summer Nutrition Programs (or SUN programs) are available to help families with kids get the food they need. Find options below to utilize or - [Thank you!](https://neappleseed.org/49191) - Nebraska Appleseed has received an incredible show of support this month for Give to Lincoln Day! I want to thank you and everyone who contributed for your generosity and helping us reach our goal of 350 grassroots supporters. With your support, over 400 supporters unlocked the $8,500 challenge match and raised over $86,000! Thank you - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature passes bill to restrict paid sick leave, defying constituents](https://neappleseed.org/49186) - ***For Immediate Release***May 28, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature passes bill to restrict paid sick leave, defying constituents LB415 removes paid sick leave protections from 140,000 hardworking Nebraskans LINCOLN, NE -- Today, 33 senators blatantly disregarded the will of Nebraskans by voting to pass LB415 - [Nebraskans at 2025 Welcoming Interactive! + Session 1 of 11th-Annual Welcoming Convening - June 11th!](https://neappleseed.org/49177) - More Than 30 Nebraskans Traveled to Detroit, Michigan for the 2025 Welcoming Interactive! We loved getting to see nearly 30 Nebraskans from all parts of Nebraska at the Welcoming Interactive national welcoming conference! People who attended the conference gained insights and strategies for building inclusive communities and formed connections with welcomers from all over the - [At the Capitol: Minimum wage and paid sick leave protections challenged again](https://neappleseed.org/49174) - Thanks to amazing advocates like you – and lots of caffeine – we’ve made it to the final full week of the 2025 Legislative Session! Today is Day 86 of our 90 day session. The Legislature is expected to wrap up this year’s activities no later than Monday, June 9th. Multiple 2025 Appleseed Priority Bills - [House Budget Bill Would Separate Nebraska Families, Destabilizing Communities](https://neappleseed.org/49167) - Since January, federal leadership has given the public every reason to believe it cannot be trusted with more money, more power, and more discretion to pursue a cruel, costly, and unproductive immigration enforcement strategy that is destabilizing local communities. Yet, this week the House passed a massive budget bill (through a process known as “reconciliation” - [RELEASE: US House Passes Budget That Will Devastate Nebraska Communities](https://neappleseed.org/49162) - ***For Immediate Release***May 22, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: US House Passes Budget That Will Devastate Nebraska Communities Hundreds of thousands of Nebraskans’ access to healthcare and food is at risk LINCOLN, NE – This morning, the US House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation package that will - [House Budget Proposals Would Increase Hunger in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/49151) - Congress is using a budget process known as reconciliation to avoid a Senate filibuster. Reconciliation can be used to pass certain tax and spending legislation, and through this process only a simple majority is needed in the Senate. Right now, the House is getting ready to vote on these proposals to cut basic needs programs - [House Budget Proposals Would Increase Poverty in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/49154) - Imagine you know two young Nebraskans, let’s call them Christina and Eric, from a tight-knit community in a small town. They were high school sweethearts, and got married in 2013 right after graduation. They had their first baby later that year, followed by their second baby in 2014. Their parents and community members set an - [House Budget Proposals Would Take Away Healthcare from Everyday Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/49157) - Nebraskans care about their health and the health of their family, and Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act play a big role in ensuring that over 475,000 Nebraskans can access health care. But Congress is considering slashing Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplace coverage to give tax breaks to billionaires. The current proposed cuts - [Tell Congress NO to devastating cuts to health care & food programs to fund separating families & tax cuts for the wealthy!](https://neappleseed.org/49147) - The House of Representatives has recently advanced budget bills that will devastate healthcare, food access, and other basic-needs programs in order to fund tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires and sweeping deportations of longtime community members. The House could vote in a matter of days on these historically devastating cuts that are the most extensive - [At the Capitol: Lots of updates for the Legislature’s final stretch](https://neappleseed.org/49144) - Today is Day 82, meaning we have just eight days remaining in the 2025 Legislative Session. Last week, senators passed a two-year $11 billion state budget package. Several Appleseed priority bills also came back to the floor. Here’s an update on the legislation we’ve been monitoring: LB192: SNAP Eligibility Bill Returned with New Amendment ✅ LB192 (Quick), which was up - [RELEASE: Nebraska becomes first state to receive SNAP restriction waiver approval by USDA](https://neappleseed.org/49142) - ***For Immediate Release***May 20, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska becomes first state to receive SNAP restriction waiver approval by USDA Approval strips dignity of SNAP participants and will lead to fewer SNAP retailers LINCOLN, NE – On Monday, US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins signed a waiver that - [LB319 Veto Override Fails - Nebraska’s SNAP Ban Continues](https://neappleseed.org/49138) - After a long and difficult battle with many, many ups and downs, LB319, a bill to end the lifetime SNAP ban for drug felony convictions in Nebraska, has failed for the year. After a vote of 32-17 on Final Reading, today’s veto override motion failed to pass with a vote of 24-24. A total of - [TOMORROW: Food Assistance Veto Override - Tell Your Senator to Vote YES!](https://neappleseed.org/49124) - Visit neappleseed.org/EndtheSNAPBan to hear from Nebraskans impacted by the ban. Last week, Governor Pillen VETOED ✅ LB319 - a bill to restore SNAP access to the over 1,000 Nebraskans who are under a lifetime ban because of past felony drug convictions. ‼️TOMORROW, the Legislature will vote to override or sustain this short-sighted and cruel veto. - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Senators to override Pillen’s food assistance veto!](https://neappleseed.org/49101) - “For myself and others, this ban has been detrimental to our transition into society. We’ve served our time, we’ve given back to our community in positive ways, and this is one more punishment that we’re going through. Join me in advocating for our state Senators to override the veto on this bill and end the - [Register Now! ‘Bridging to Belonging’ Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/49107) - Join us in Bridging to Belonging:11th-Annual Nebraska Welcoming Convening Series Join us for the (virtual) 11th-annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to hear and learn - [RELEASE: House Advances Historically Devastating Budget Reconciliation Bills](https://neappleseed.org/49098) - ***For Immediate Release***May 15, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: House Committees Advance Historically Devastating Budget Reconciliation Bills LINCOLN, NE – Over the last two days, the US House of Representatives advanced reconciliation bills out of the Energy and Commerce and Agriculture Committees, making extreme cuts to Medicaid, - [LB319 to End the SNAP Ban passes Final Reading! (Plus LB192 update)](https://neappleseed.org/49088) - “This is great news! This just shows that years of advocacy can actually pay off. This moves the needle in a positive direction for not just me but for our state as it works to reduce recidivism. This means less of a struggle, less anxiety, less pressure overall for myself and for others who have - [ACTION ALERT: Important bills on tomorrow’s agenda](https://neappleseed.org/49086) - Tomorrow, three important bills are up for Final Reading. This is our last chance to make our voices heard on the following issues: ✅ LB192 (Quick) preserves access to food for thousands of Nebraska families by maintaining the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)’s income eligibility level, which will decrease in October unless the legislature acts - [LB415 Advanced Again. Tell Your Senator to Vote NO on Final Reading!](https://neappleseed.org/49067) - Today, 33 senators once again disrespected Nebraska voters by advancing ❌LB415 (Ballard) through its second round of debate. LB415 would remove paid sick leave protections from 140,000 hardworking Nebraskans by: Exempting several groups of workers from receiving paid sick leave, including seasonal and temporary agricultural workers, and workers under the age of 16; Exempting businesses - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances bill to limit paid sick leave, despite overwhelming opposition](https://neappleseed.org/49065) - ***For Immediate Release***May 13, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances bill to limit paid sick leave, despite overwhelming opposition LB415 removes paid sick leave protections from 140,000 Nebraskans LINCOLN, NE – Today, 33 senators in the Nebraska Legislature continue to flagrantly disrespect the will of their constituents - [At the Capitol: LB415 up for debate TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/49069) - It’s Day 78! There are only 12 days left in this year’s session. Senators continue to debate Nebraska’s mainline budget for 2025-2027 this week, which received second-round approval yesterday. ✅LB275 (Sen. Megan Hunt) was also advanced to Final Reading last week. This bill provides more transparency, opportunities for engagement, and access to benefits for young - [ACTION ALERT: LB415 up for second round of debate TOMORROW](https://neappleseed.org/49062) - Working families are the engine that drives our economy. Paid sick leave helps hardworking Nebraskans and businesses and means people won’t have to choose between the paycheck they need and their family’s health. But the will of Nebraska voters – who overwhelmingly passed paid sick leave for ALL workers last November – is being ignored - [We did it! Lincolnites pass source-of-income protections!](https://neappleseed.org/49044) - Today, voters in the City of Lincoln passed the Lincoln for Fair Housing ballot initiative, a locally-led ballot measure that adopts source-of-income protections by prohibiting landlords and property managers from turning away tenants based solely on how they pay rent. The initiative passed with 66% of the vote. Because of the 15,000+ residents who signed - [Give early for Give to Lincoln Day](https://neappleseed.org/49034) - While we face challenges at the state and federal levels, Nebraska Appleseed is committed to boosting grassroots action, amplifying peoples’ voices, and fighting to ensure that every person has the rights and resources to thrive. Your support makes this possible—and the month of May is the most impactful time of the year to make the - [TOMORROW: Vote FOR Lincoln For Fair Housing!](https://neappleseed.org/49024) - Tomorrow, Lincolnites have the opportunity to ensure that everyone in our city can find a place to call home by voting FOR Lincoln For Fair Housing to amend Title 11 of the Lincoln Municipal Code Right now, landlords in Lincoln can discriminate against people who would pay for housing through disability benefits, social security, veteran - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress drastic cuts to food benefits hurt us all](https://neappleseed.org/49020) - Congress is about to make a choice: Protect the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or have more Americans go hungry. They need to hear from you to make the right decision! The House Committee on Agriculture will meet soon to put pen to paper on policies that could massively cut SNAP for Nebraskans, all so - [LB258 Advanced Again. Tell Your Senator to Vote NO on Final Reading!](https://neappleseed.org/49002) - Today, 33 senators continued to blatantly ignore the will of Nebraska voters by advancing ❌LB258 (Raybould) through its second round of debate. LB258 would harm Nebraska workers by severely weakening our state’s minimum wage law. If passed on Final Reading, this bill would create a subminimum wage for workers under the age of 20 AND - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances harmful minimum wage changes, disrespecting the will of voters](https://neappleseed.org/49003) - ***For Immediate Release***April 30, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances harmful minimum wage changes, disrespecting the will of voters LB258 directly undermines changes that were overwhelmingly approved by Nebraska voters LINCOLN, NE – Today, 33 senators in the Nebraska Legislature continued to blatantly ignore the will of - [TAKE ACTION: Tell Senators to END THE SNAP BAN!](https://neappleseed.org/48991) - “When your children are hungry, what do you do?” - Kerry Our lawmakers need to hear it’s time to End the SNAP Ban in Nebraska! ✅ LB319, a bill to end Nebraska’s lifetime SNAP ban for people convicted of felony drug convictions, will be up on Select File debate as early this morning. LB319 would… - [Protect Our Minimum Wage: Tell Your Senator to OPPOSE LB258!](https://neappleseed.org/48988) - Throughout the 2025 Legislative Session, Nebraskans have been clear: Our Legislature should respect the will of the voters. Nebraskans came together in 2022 to make sure that our state has a minimum wage that values our labor, regardless of age, AND ensures that wages do not once again fall behind the cost of living. ❌ - [At the Capitol: 20 Days Left in Session!](https://neappleseed.org/48984) - It’s Day 70 of the 2025 Legislative Session, and we’re still at the Capitol every day fighting for a Nebraska in which every person can thrive. Here’s an update on how you can take action this week: Last Week’s Highlights Last week, the Legislature advanced three important bills on which you can still make your - [Take Action to Protect Our Health Care TODAY!](https://neappleseed.org/48967) - Despite the high public support for Medicaid and the public outcry against cuts to the program, Congress is still considering proposals that take away health care of everyday Americans just to fund tax breaks for billionaires. Over the next two weeks, Congress will be working to rapidly finalize their proposals that could gut Medicaid. In - [RELEASE: Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans Coalition React to Legislative Efforts to Overturn Vote](https://neappleseed.org/48961) - ***For Immediate Release***April 25, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans Coalition React to Legislative Efforts to Overturn Vote Coalition Partners Review Polling for Possible Referendum LINCOLN, NE – Today, the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans coalition is sharing new polling results that reveal Nebraska - [Congress PASSED a budget blueprint, what’s next?](https://neappleseed.org/48940) - The House recently passed its budget, setting the stage for a regressive, harmful set of tax cuts for those who don’t need them, paid for by cuts to bedrock programs like Medicaid and SNAP. The reconciliation process itself can be confusing, and no bill has yet been written or passed. The real work to stop - [Nebraska Summer EBT 2025 is Here!](https://neappleseed.org/48942) - Kids should have the food they need to be healthy and grow, no matter who they are or where they grow up. Nebraska’s Summer EBT program, now in its second year, is one puzzle piece to making sure no one gets left out. Summer EBT is simple: between April and September of 2025, children who - [At the Capitol: LB89 up for debate TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/48951) - We are on Day 65 of the 2025 session and late nights officially start today. Here’s an update on how we’ll continue fighting for justice and opportunity for ALL Nebraskans as we head into the last 30 days of the 2025 Legislative Session. This Week’s Debate There are two bills up for debate this week - [At the Capitol: Two Priority Bills Up For Debate](https://neappleseed.org/48926) - We are on Day 62, which means we’re now two-thirds of the way through the 2025 session. The Legislature will continue all-day floor debate until they adjourn in early June. Learn more about the floor debate process in our latest At The Core video. This week, two of Appleseed’s 2025 priority bills are up for - [ACTION ALERT: Tell your senator to protect our minimum wage!](https://neappleseed.org/48923) - Nebraskans spoke loud and clear at the ballot box in 2022: We want a minimum wage that values our labor – regardless of age – AND ensures that wages do not once again fall behind the cost of living. Despite the will of the people, the Nebraska Legislature is now seeking to undermine our state’s - [TAKE ACTION: Tell your Senator it’s time to END THE SNAP BAN!](https://neappleseed.org/48914) - "[Just] because you got busted because of a possession charge or delivery so long ago, that shouldn’t stop you from getting SNAP benefits. Everybody has the right to change their life.” - Vernon It’s past time to End the SNAP Ban in Nebraska and our lawmakers need to hear it! ✅ LB319, a bill to - [At the Capitol: All-day floor debate continues](https://neappleseed.org/48908) - Last week the Legislature began all-day floor debate, which will continue until session adjourns in June. ICYMI: Click here for an update on what we’ll be fighting for – and against – for the rest of this legislative session. Last Week: LB192 and LB258 Advanced to Select File Two of Appleseed’s 2025 priority bills advanced - [RELEASE: Nebraska DHHS applies for unnecessary SNAP waiver that stigmatizes low-income families](https://neappleseed.org/48895) - ***For Immediate Release***April 7, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska DHHS applies for unnecessary SNAP waiver that stigmatizes low-income families LINCOLN, NE – Today, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced that they will be submitting a waiver to the USDA to prohibit people from - [TAKE ACTION: Sign petition to tell senators to support Paid Sick Leave!](https://neappleseed.org/48878) - Last week, we were extremely disappointed to see the Nebraska Legislature disregard the overwhelming will of Nebraska voters by advancing ❌ LB415 to select file (the second round of debate). This bill removes paid sick leave protections from 140,000 hardworking Nebraskans – including people working at small businesses, seasonal and temporary agricultural workers, and workers - [LB192 Advanced: Thank you for your advocacy!](https://neappleseed.org/48874) - Today, ✅ LB192, Senator Quick’s SNAP Eligibility bill, was advanced to select file! This bill would: Maintain Nebraska’s current SNAP income eligibility level (which would go down significantly this October without action); Continue to reduce the SNAP benefits cliff, which happens when people take a small raise at work and lose a disproportionate amount of - [TAKE ACTION: Tell your Senator to vote ‘YES” on LB192!](https://neappleseed.org/48872) - ✅ LB192, Senator Quick’s SNAP Eligibility bill, will be debated on general file by Nebraska senators as early as TODAY. We need your help to encourage them to vote YES to move this bill forward! This bill would: Maintain Nebraska current SNAP’s income eligibility level (which would go down significantly this October without action); Continue - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances bill that weakens voter-approved minimum wage initiative](https://neappleseed.org/48866) - ***For Immediate Release***April 1, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances bill that weakens voter-approved minimum wage initiative LINCOLN, NE - Today, the Nebraska Legislature advanced LB258, introduced by Senator Jane Raybould, which would significantly undermine Initiative 433, a ballot measure that Nebrakans strongly supported in November - [ACTION ALERT: LB258 Advanced.Tell Your Senator to Vote NO!](https://neappleseed.org/48864) - Today, 32 senators once again ignored the will of Nebraska voters – who overwhelmingly voted to raise the minimum wage – by advancing ❌LB258 (Sen. Jane Raybould), which would harm workers by severely weakening Nebraska’s minimum wage law. LB258 carves out a subminimum wage for workers under the age of 20 AND restricts the cost - [At the Capitol: LB258 Up for Debate TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/48839) - The Legislature begins all-day floor debate this week and will continue until they adjourn in June. Now that hearings are done, and senator and committee priorities bills have been decided, click here for an update on what we’ll be fighting for – and against – during the next 36 days of session. Last Week: LB415 - [Mid-Session Update: 2025 Nebraska Appleseed Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/48830) - In February, we shared our 2025 legislative priorities. Now that hearings are done, and senator and committee priorities bills have been decided, here’s an update on what we’ll be fighting for – and against – for the next 36 days of session. Supporting young people navigating the child welfare system ✅ LB275 (Senator Megan Hunt) - [LB258 Up For Debate: Tell Your Senator to Vote NO!](https://neappleseed.org/48820) - For everyone to have access to the good life, we must ensure that Nebraska workers are paid a living wage. That’s why the minimum wage increase passed overwhelmingly on the ballot — and why we must now all fight to protect it. ❌ LB258 (Sen. Jane Raybould) would harm workers by severely weakening Nebraska’s minimum - [TAKE ACTION: LB415 Advanced with Harmful Amendment](https://neappleseed.org/48817) - Today, 34 senators, blatantly disregarded the will of Nebraska voters – who overwhelmingly passed paid sick leave for ALL workers last November – by advancing LB415 (Sen. Beau Ballard), including a harmful amendment (X AM545) that: Exempts several groups of workers from receiving paid sick leave, including seasonal and temporary agricultural workers, and workers under - [RELEASE: Nebraska Legislature advances bill to undermine voter-approved paid sick leave](https://neappleseed.org/48815) - For Immediate ReleaseMarch 28, 2025 Contact:Jill HeggenCommunications Director, Women’s Fund of Omaha402-913-4950jheggen@omahawomensfund.org LINCOLN, NE – Today, the Nebraska Legislature advanced LB415, introduced by Senator Beau Ballard, to select file with an amendment (AM545) that exempts several groups of workers from earning paid sick leave. The Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans coalition issued the following statement: “We - [TOMORROW - LB415 Vote: Tell your senator to OPPOSE AM770!](https://neappleseed.org/48807) - Working families are the engine that drives our economy. Paid sick leave helps hardworking Nebraskans and businesses and means people won’t have to choose between the paycheck they need and their family’s health. Now, the will of Nebraska voters – who overwhelmingly passed paid sick leave for ALL workers last November – is being ignored - [At the Capitol: LB415 Up for Debate This Week](https://neappleseed.org/48778) - This week is the last week of hearings at the Legislature! Once hearings are over, the calendar will shift next week to all day debate. Priority bills from senators and committees were finalized last week. In addition to those pieces of legislation, the Speaker is also allowed to designate 25 bills as priorities. You can - [LB415 debate continues: Tell your senator to OPPOSE AM545!](https://neappleseed.org/48761) - Workers and families have said this for years: No one should have to choose between a paycheck and their health. That’s why nearly 75% of Nebraska voters approved paid sick leave last November. Now, lawmakers are trying to overturn our vote by exempting certain Nebraska workers from being able to earn and use paid sick - [At the Capitol: Officially halfway through!](https://neappleseed.org/48753) - Yesterday we hit Day 45, marking the halfway point in the 2025 session. Last week, senators and committees finalized their 2025 legislative priorities. This week, floor debate will continue in the mornings, followed by committee hearings each afternoon. All-day floor debate will begin on March 31. Last Week’s Highlights We were pleased to see a - [RELEASE: Ballot sponsors oppose efforts to undermine voter-approved Paid Sick Leave (Initiative 436)](https://neappleseed.org/48742) - ***For Immediate Release***March 20, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Ballot sponsors oppose efforts to undermine Paid Sick Leave (Initiative 436) AM545 would prevent some Nebraska workers from accessing paid sick leave LINCOLN, NE – As early as today, the Nebraska Legislature will begin debate on LB415, a - [TAKE ACTION: Tell your senator to OPPOSE AM545 to LB415!](https://neappleseed.org/48737) - No one should have to choose between their health and their paycheck. Last November, nearly 75% of Nebraska voters agreed by supporting Initiative 436 to approve paid sick leave for all workers. Now, members of the Nebraska Legislature are looking to overturn the will of voters and exempt certain workers in Nebraska from being able - [At the Capitol: Priority bills are being designated](https://neappleseed.org/48703) - This week, senators and committees will continue to designate their legislative priorities, which are due by March 14. We were pleased to see one of Appleseed’s priority bills prioritized: ✅ LB319 (Sen. Victor Rountree) would end the SNAP ban for Nebraskans with certain drug-related convictions, helping more folks have food on the table for themselves - [Lincoln For Fair Housing initiative placed on May 6 city ballot!](https://neappleseed.org/48695) - No one should be denied a home because of how they pay rent. But right now, landlords in Lincoln can refuse to rent to people who would pay for housing through disability benefits, social security, veteran benefits, or housing vouchers. It’s called source-of-income discrimination, and it hurts families, veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities. That’s - [Nebraska's First Certified Welcoming City Announced! + Upcoming Events](https://neappleseed.org/48577) - Nebraska communities across the state are committed to strengthening local economies, building vibrant communities of neighbors, and fostering meaningful connections across differences by creating inclusive practices. One community has been recognized by Welcoming America for their commitment. Congratulations to Crete, Nebraska who is officially the first city in the state to be recognized as a - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to President Trump’s Address to a Joint Session of Congress](https://neappleseed.org/48608) - ***For Immediate Release***Date: March 5, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to President Trump’s Address to a Joint Session of Congress LINCOLN, NE — Last night, President Trump addressed a joint session of Congress with a speech that was devoid of policies that would strengthen - [At the Capitol: Thank you for making your voice heard!](https://neappleseed.org/48569) - Thank you for making your voice heard this session! Your continued advocacy – through submitting comments, testifying at hearings, and contacting your senator – makes an impactful difference. This week, the Legislature will continue with morning floor debate, followed by committee hearings every afternoon. All-day floor debate will begin on March 31. Last Week’s Highlights - [ACTION ALERT: Tell Your Senator to Oppose LB258!](https://neappleseed.org/48551) - When Nebraskans went to the ballot box in 2022, we voted to gradually raise our state’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by January 2026 — and to automatically adjust it for cost of living increases starting in 2027. Despite nearly 60% of Nebraska voters supporting this change, the Nebraska Legislature now seeks to undermine - [At the Capitol: Several Important Hearings This Week](https://neappleseed.org/48528) - Hearings have kept all of us busy these last few weeks! The Legislature will continue with morning floor debate, followed by committee hearings every afternoon, through the last full week of March. All-day floor debate will begin on March 31. Appleseed has identified our 2025 legislative priorities that would advance justice and opportunity for all - [TAKE ACTION: Harsh SNAP Work Requirements are Bad for Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/48536) - Everyone should have access to the food they need. But ❌ LB656 would make Nebraska’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) less effective and cut people off of food benefits. Introduced by Senator Bob Andersen, LB656 would do two things: Take away several of Nebraska’s options to provide SNAP food benefits to Nebraskans who need it, - [Tell Congress NO to slashing health care & food programs to fund separating families](https://neappleseed.org/48521) - Right now, Congress is considering budget legislation that would slash healthcare, food access, and other essential public services – in order to fund sweeping deportations of longtime community members and to expand tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy and large corporations. Now is the time to tell our members of Congress that Nebraskans support stability for - [TAKE ACTION: Show you support for Hunger-Free Schools!](https://neappleseed.org/48501) - Every child deserves access to nutritious meals at school – regardless of their family's income. ✅ LB14, the Hunger-Free Schools Act, would offer no-cost meals to ALL of Nebraska’s school children. By making breakfast and lunch free for all students, we can eliminate stigma, improve learning outcomes, and support families struggling with rising costs. We - [At the Capitol: Tell the HHS Committee to Advance LB102!](https://neappleseed.org/48480) - We’re almost a third of the way through the 2025 Nebraska Legislative Session! Bill hearings will continue in the afternoons through the end of March, and floor debate on the bills that advance out of committees are being heard on the floor each morning. Last Week’s Highlights Last week, we testified on two important bills: - [At the Capitol: Our 2025 Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/48439) - Last week was full of long days, late nights, and much-needed coffee while fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Appleseed’s 2025 Legislative Priorities Appleseed’s priority bills for 2025 include legislation that would: Support young people navigating the child welfare system, Expand food and nutrition access, Strengthening worker safety, wages, and protections, Advance housing - [ACTION ALERT: Tell your senator to OPPOSE LB258!](https://neappleseed.org/48467) - For everyone to have access to the good life, we must ensure that Nebraska workers are paid a living wage. That’s why the minimum wage increase passed overwhelmingly on the ballot — and why we must now all fight to protect it. When Nebraskans went to the ballot box in 2022, we voted to gradually - [TELL CONGRESS: Nebraska families need positive immigration laws, not harsh enforcement](https://neappleseed.org/48240) - As Congress begins a new year, if you didn’t have a chance to share a message before the holidays (or even if you did!), take another moment to let Nebraska’s members of Congress hear communities’ strong support for the positive immigration policies that would support stability for longtime community members living in limbo, thriving schools - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Responds to Day One Executive Orders](https://neappleseed.org/48256) - ***For Immediate Release***January 20, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: (402) 438-8853 ext 116sierrasp@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Responds to Day One Executive Orders New executive orders built on same destructive ideas that contradict Nebraskan and American values LINCOLN, NE — Today, President Trump began his return to office by issuing numerous executive orders that - [At the Capitol: Hearings Begin This Week](https://neappleseed.org/48260) - Welcome to Week 3 of the 2025 Legislative Session! Bill introduction will continue this week through Day 10 (January 22). Bill hearings also start tomorrow and will continue through the end of March. Debate on any rules changes will also begin tomorrow, January 22. Last week, Governor Pillen gave his annual State of the State - [RELEASE: Governor Pillen’s Executive Order on Immigration Enforcement Will Harm Nebraska Communities](https://neappleseed.org/48299) - ***For Immediate Release***January 24, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Governor Pillen’s Executive Order on Immigration Enforcement Will Harm Nebraska Communities This executive order is deeply contrary to Nebraska’s values and will harm moms, dads, and neighbors. LINCOLN, NE -- Today, Governor Pillen signed an executive order that directs Nebraska - [From Boarding Schools to Forced Adoption: A legacy of American Genocide and Cultural Erosion in Indigenous Communities](https://neappleseed.org/48305) - By Téa Cushman, Child Welfare Youth Fellow A key component of this research was an interview conducted with Grace Johnson, member of the Oglala-Lakota tribe and Liaison for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons for the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, Misty Flowers, member of the Isanti Dakota tribe and Diligent Recruitment Advisor at the National Center - [At the Capitol: Tell Your Senator to OPPOSE LB698](https://neappleseed.org/48309) - Last week, bill introduction ended with the Nebraska Legislature introducing 715 bills and 18 proposed constitutional amendments this session. Committee hearings also began last week. Last week’s highlights Last Friday, we testified in front of the Judiciary Committee to support ✅ LB174 (Senator Jason Prokop), which would protect Nebraskans and their paychecks by limiting wage - [RELEASE: Freeze of federal assistance could harm Nebraskans in every community](https://neappleseed.org/48311) - ***For Immediate Release***January 28, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org RELEASE: Freeze of federal assistance could harm Nebraskans in every community Order would halt providing assistance in key programs supporting Nebraska communities LINCOLN, NE -- On Monday night, President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget ordered a temporary freeze on all - [Nebraska Food Access Bill Overview 2025](https://neappleseed.org/48315) - Hunger is a policy decision, and we need to make sure policymakers know their votes either add to or take away hunger in our communities. This year, the Nebraska Legislature will be taking up over 700 bills that will impact the lives of Nebraskans. We wanted to share the food access bills that Nebraska Appleseed - [TAKE ACTION: Let your state senator know you support immigrant Nebraskans!](https://neappleseed.org/48321) - As Nebraskans, we care about our neighbors. Last Friday, Governor Pillen signed an executive order that directs Nebraska agencies to comply with the federal government’s harsh and unproductive immigration enforcement orders. This executive order focused on contributing to sweeping enforcement actions is deeply contrary to Nebraska’s values of family and community, dignity and fairness. Nebraskans - [At the Capitol: Tell Your Senator to SUPPORT LB192](https://neappleseed.org/48361) - Another full week of the Nebraska Legislature is complete! Last week’s highlights Last week, we testified in front of the Judiciary Committee to support housing bills that will support Nebraska renters, including: ✅ LB101 (Senator George Dungan), which recognizes Nebraskans’ constitutional right to a trial by jury in eviction cases. It also ensures that tenants - [TAKE ACTION: Submit a comment to SUPPORT LB102!](https://neappleseed.org/48369) - ✅ LB102, introduced by Senator Ashlei Spivey, would put money in the pockets of families who need it by adjusting the eligibility and benefit level calculation for Nebraska’s ADC program. In Nebraska, the direct cash assistance program funded by the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant is known as Aid to Dependent Children - [Nebraskans are clear: NO Cuts to Medicaid!](https://neappleseed.org/48379) - Medicaid keeps Nebraska communities and economies healthy. And right now, Congress is considering proposals that would make drastic cuts to Medicaid. We need you to join in and tell our Nebraska members of Congress that Nebraskans are clear: NO Cuts to Medicaid! While members of Congress continue to discuss which proposals they will try to - [Lincoln For Fair Housing has qualified for the ballot!](https://neappleseed.org/48400) - I have exciting news! Today, the Lancaster County Election Commissioner certified the Lincoln For Fair Housing ballot initiative! Today, landlords in Lincoln can refuse to rent to people based on how they pay, such as housing vouchers, disability benefits, social security, or veteran benefits. It’s called source-of-income discrimination. It’s simply unfair and prevents people from - [2025 Nebraska Appleseed Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/48404) - The Nebraska Legislature introduced more than 700 new bills and proposed constitutional amendments this session and we’re ready to fight for justice and opportunity at the Capitol! Nebraska Appleseed Priority Bills Here are some of the legislative priorities that Appleseed is supporting during the 2025 session. ⤵️ Supporting young people navigating the child welfare system - [ACTION ALERT: Tell your senator to OPPOSE LB698!](https://neappleseed.org/48329) - Last November, voters across Nebraska overwhelmingly passed Initiative 436, a citizen-led ballot initiative that will give all workers the ability to earn and use paid sick leave – without retaliation from their employers. This voter-approved law goes into effect on October 1, 2025. Nearly 75% of Nebraskans approved Initiative 436. That includes voters in 89 - [15,000+ signatures turned in to ban source of income discrimination in Lincoln!](https://neappleseed.org/48352) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed gathered with our fellow Lincoln housing advocates to turn in more than 15,000 signatures from across the city in support of the Lincoln for Fair Housing ballot initiative! Thanks to the hard work of advocates and volunteers across our city, we're confident that we’ve submitted more than enough signatures to qualify for - [TAKE ACTION: Raise your voice for SNAP Access in Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/48344) - Two positive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) bills are up for hearings in the Legislature on Thursday, February 6! We invite you to support them with in person testimony, online comments, or general good vibes. LB192, SNAP Eligibility, introduced by Sen. Dan Quick: Without legislative action this session, the income eligibility level for Nebraska SNAP - [Youth Mental Health In Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/47512) - Guest Post by Manar Hussein, Health Care Access Intern Recently, Nebraska's Attorney General filed a lawsuit against TikTok, citing mental health concerns. While social media's impact on youth is a valid concern, this action fails to address the significant mental health access issues across our state, which disproportionately impact youth of color. True progress in - [At the Capitol: Several Appleseed priority bills introduced!](https://neappleseed.org/48227) - Last week, the Nebraska Legislature officially kicked off the 2025 session, welcoming 17 new faces to the Unicameral. Senator John Arch was re-elected Speaker of the Legislature, committee chair elections were held, and committee assignments were reported. Bill introductions also began last week, and will continue through Day 10 which is Wednesday, January 22. Hearings - [Está invitado: Cómo defender el acceso a alimentos en la legislatura de Nebraska en 2025](https://neappleseed.org/48252) - TODOS necesitamos comida. Hablemos sobre cómo podemos asegurar el acceso a alimentos para todos los residentes durante la sesión legislativa de Nebraska Únase a nosotros el jueves 23 de enero de 5:30 a 7:00 pm (hora central) para conocer las propuestas de ley que afectarán el acceso a los alimentos que se han presentado en la legislatura de Nebraska - [You're Invited: How to Advocate for Food Access in the Nebraska Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/48246) - Everyone needs food. Let’s talk about how we can advocate to make it easier for people to get the food they need this Nebraska Legislative session. Join us on Thursday, January 23rd from 5:30-7:00 pm CT to learn about the food access bills that have been introduced in the Nebraska Legislature for 2025. We’ll share - [RELEASE: Nebraska Appleseed Response to the Governor’s State of the State](https://neappleseed.org/48235) - ***For Immediate Release***January 15, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org Nebraska Appleseed Response to the Governor’s State of the State LINCOLN, NE -- Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State address: “This morning, Governor Pillen shared his reflections - [2025 Nebraska Legislative Session begins today!](https://neappleseed.org/48184) - Welcome to 2025! The Nebraska Legislature officially kicks off this year’s session today, welcoming several new faces to the Unicameral. On today’s agenda is committee leadership elections and swearing in of new members. New bill introductions will start tomorrow and continue through Day 10 (January 22). Hearings on newly introduced legislation will begin in a - [New Year, New Perspectives: Join Our Virtual Film Series!](https://neappleseed.org/48160) - Join community leaders from across Nebraska who are fostering inclusive spaces of connection and growth! The New Year is here – what better way to kick it off than by deepening our understanding of the diverse stories that make Nebraska home? Join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series showcasing short - [RELEASE: Nebraska workers receive another wage increase because of Initiative 433](https://neappleseed.org/48126) - ***For Immediate Release***January 1, 2025 Contact: Sierra Salgado PirigyiCommunications Director, Nebraska AppleseedOffice: 402-438-8853 x116sierrasp@neappleseed.org Nebraska workers receive another wage increasebecause of Initiative 433 The increase to $13.50/hour is the third in a series of raises LINCOLN, NE -- Today, Nebraska increased its minimum wage for workers across the state to $13.50/hour. This was the third - [Unpacking the Medicaid “Unwind”](https://neappleseed.org/48124) - Changes to the Medicaid program significantly impact Nebraska families and communities. Medicaid not only supports the health and well-being of Nebraskans, it also supports Nebraska’s workforce, health systems, and economy. Federal Medicaid protections related to the COVID-19 pandemic allowed most Medicaid enrollees to be continuously enrolled in coverage until those protections ended, and enrollment renewals, - [What your advocacy accomplished, 1 year later](https://neappleseed.org/48136) - Exactly one year ago today, Nebraska Appleseed launched a petition to convince Governor Pillen to reverse his decision on Summer EBT and accept the $18M in food benefits for Nebraska kids that came with it. Nine days later, we submitted 6,145 names and comments urging him to do the right thing! It’s now one year - [Let’s make the new “Nebraska Child Care Tax Credit for Working Parents” work for all of us!](https://neappleseed.org/48115) - Remember back in 2021 when everyone in the US with kids got an extra few hundred dollars every month, and a few hundred more in their 2021 tax return? And then research showed that policy - the expanded federal child tax credit - cut child poverty by 46%? We thought that was pretty great! While - [Bridging the Gap: Nebraska's Oral Health Care Crisis](https://neappleseed.org/48112) - Blog post by Manar Hussein, Health Care Access Intern + Freedom Thompson, Health Care Access Community Organizer In the heartland of America, a silent crisis is unfolding. Nebraskans from all walks of life are struggling to access essential oral health care, facing a complex web of challenges that stretch far beyond simple toothaches. Through the - [TAKE ACTION: 60+ Nebraska orgs call for positive immigration laws. Add your voice!](https://neappleseed.org/48109) - As we prepare for holiday time with family and friends, too many Nebraska neighbors are living in immigration limbo and constant uncertainty because of long outdated immigration laws – with ripple effects that impact families, workplaces, whole communities, all of us. It doesn’t have to be this way. In fact, just weeks ago, 60+ Nebraska - [We’re putting housing rights on Lincoln’s ballot](https://neappleseed.org/48100) - This week, Appleseed and Lincoln for Fair Housing launched a ballot initiative to ban source of income discrimination in Lincoln. (read about the launch in the Journal Star) Today, landlords in Lincoln can refuse to rent to people based on how they pay, such as housing vouchers, disability benefits, social security, or veteran benefits. It’s - [Register Now! “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series](https://neappleseed.org/48095) - Join community leaders from across Nebraska who are fostering inclusive spaces of connection and growth! The beginning of a new year is a great time for new learning. In January, join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series, bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories, - [Giving Tuesday gets us ready for next year](https://neappleseed.org/48047) - Today is Giving Tuesday! Thanks to supporters’ generosity, we’ve already raised $23,355, but we still need your help to meet our goal of $80,000 by December 8th! This next year will bring many challenges, but we will continue to organize, resist, and hold leaders accountable – just as we have in prior moments like this - [Your Impact in 2024](https://neappleseed.org/48023) - As 2024 winds down, I keep thinking about how Nebraskans like you have made their voices heard and impacted policy for good. From ballot initiatives and online petitions to legislative hearings, Nebraskans have made a real difference this year. Your advocacy matters! The year kicked off with a massive push to keep kids fed over - [Together, we’re built for moments like this.](https://neappleseed.org/47893) - Today, we learned the results of the presidential election, and today, we recommit ourselves to the fight to stand up for justice. We should take a moment to celebrate all that we did achieve – voters showed up and waited in rainy long lines and navigated newly enforced voter ID laws. An overwhelming majority of - [We did it! Nebraskans Voted for Paid Sick Leave!](https://neappleseed.org/47874) - Today, voters across Nebraska passed Initiative 436, a citizen-led ballot initiative that will give all workers the ability to earn and use paid sick leave. The initiative passed with over 70% of the vote. We had the opportunity to vote for this initiative today thanks to our Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans coalition partners, hundreds - [Affordable Housing is Falling Behind in Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/47833) - No matter our race, gender, or income, we all want to live in a safe and decent home in a vibrant community. But too many Lincolnites are struggling to keep a roof over their heads as the costs of housing, health care, and food go up while our incomes stay the same. When we build - [Let’s advance renters' rights and equity in housing together!](https://neappleseed.org/47839) - Everyone deserves a safe and welcoming place to call home. A home is more than just four walls; it’s a foundation for security, dignity, and opportunity. Unfortunately, in Nebraska, the housing crisis severely limits the access to home, with 89% of extremely low-income renters unable to afford even basic housing. Affordable housing remains a distant - [Summer EBT 2024 Celebration & Survey](https://neappleseed.org/47816) - Child Nutrition Champions, We want to hear about your experiences with Summer EBT! Will you take 5 minutes to complete our Summer EBT participant survey? It seems like only yesterday, Nebraskans from all over the state were advocating for Nebraska’s governor to participate in Summer EBT, a new program that provides $120 in benefits to - [Marta Nieves  - 2024 Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/47762) - On October 10, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2024 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award recognizes a Nebraskan who has made significant contributions - [Welcoming Week events across Nebraska! September 13-22](https://neappleseed.org/47526) - Welcoming Week is a great opportunity to get to know neighbors – new and old – to embrace the universal values of welcoming places, and to celebrate culture, helping everyone to belong and feel at home – because our communities are strongest when everyone knows they belong. This year’s Welcoming Week theme "We’re All In" - [Welcoming Week is Underway: Local Events inside!](https://neappleseed.org/47604) - Let’s Keep Celebrating Welcoming Week!September 13th-22nd and beyond! From business tours to family story-times, to celebrating immigrant neighbors, we’re loving all the ways Nebraskans are celebrating Welcoming Week 2024! There are still lots of local events to come! Take a look and invite a friend or family member to join you! Check-out these photos of - [We Went All In for Welcoming Week 2024…and Beyond!](https://neappleseed.org/47673) - Welcoming Week 2024 has been a beautiful celebration of Nebraska’s cultural richness, inclusion, and building bridges through connected communities – with a few more events still to come! This year, creative Welcomers across Nebraska hosted over 70 events in more than 9 communities across the state from Scottsbluff and North Platte to Crete and South - [Daniel Gutman - 2024 Seeds of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/47649) - On October 10, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2024 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Seeds of Justice Award honors outstanding legal contributions to public interest law and/or - [DHHS proposed budget cuts are a blueprint for a less healthy, unstable Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/47636) - There is a saying around the Capitol that our state budget is a moral document. It reflects the priorities of Nebraskans and where and in what we want to invest in our communities. The start of the 2025 budget process kicked off this week when state agencies had to put forward their agency requests for - [Remembering Allen Overcash, former Appleseed Board President](https://neappleseed.org/47599) - Nebraska Appleseed mourns the passing of our longtime friend Allen Overcash, a former board member and president of Nebraska Appleseed’s Board of Directors. - [3Sisters - Roots of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/47576) - On October 10, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2024 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Roots of Justice Award recognizes grassroots advocates who have made outstanding contributions to - [Kayte Partch - 2024 Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/47542) - On October 10, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2024 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, named after Appleseed’s founding executive director, recognizes young, - [Sierra Edmisten - 2024 Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/47497) - On October 10, Nebraska Appleseed will gather again to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all during the 2024 Good Apple Awards. We are proud to recognize this year’s honorees. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, named after Appleseed’s founding executive director, recognizes young, - [LB2 has passed. This bill will harm Nebraska children and families.](https://neappleseed.org/47437) - Today, 33 senators voted to pass harmful legislation for our state via ❌ LB2. LB2 cuts $40 MILLION from the Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) budget, risking the sustainability of critical programs like SNAP and child care subsidies that help Nebraska families and workers make ends meet. These cuts to DHHS’s budget are - [SCOTUS Ruling on Grants Pass (criminalization of homelessness)](https://neappleseed.org/47426) - Guest Blog Post by Cameron Collier On June 28, 2024, The U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in The City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, holding that the criminalization of homelessness (individuals sleeping in public spaces) does not violate the Eighth Amendment’s cruel and unusual punishment clause.1 The ruling paves the way for similar criminal - [Journey to Success was a SUCCESS!](https://neappleseed.org/47417) - What a year it has been working alongside two amazing advocates, the Nebraska Appleseed Journey to Success Fellows, Michayla & Karolina. As we wrap the Fellowship, we wanted to share some highlights with all of you! Last year, Michayla & Karolina joined Appleseed as Journey to Success Fellows. Journey to Success is a policy advocacy - [The 2024 Good Apple Awards Honoree](https://neappleseed.org/47404) - Join us for the 2024 Good Apple Awards on Thursday, October 10 at the Livestock Exchange Ballroom in Omaha. Social hour with an hors d’oeuvres dinner and live music begins at 6:00 pm with a short program to follow at 7:00 pm. Purchase your tickets or become a sponsor of the 2024 Good Apple Awards - [Tell your senator to vote NO on LB2](https://neappleseed.org/47402) - Last night, 33 senators voted to advance ❌ LB2, which includes $40 MILLION in budget cuts from the Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS). Drastic budget cuts like these will significantly impact our state’s ability to serve communities throughout Nebraska by slashing sustainable funding for programs like SNAP and child care subsidies that help - [You’re Invited to Justice Reimagined: A Community Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/47389) - To end the cycles of incarceration, we must be open to having hard conversations, especially when Black and Brown communities are the most impacted, but the ones not often invited to the table. That’s why we’re co-hosting a community conversation with our friends at RISE: to uplift the voices of those who have been incarcerated - [Paid Sick Leave qualified for ballot!](https://neappleseed.org/47386) - Today, the Secretary of State confirmed that the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans ballot initiative is the first to have qualified for the November 2024 ballot! Right now, more than one-third of full-time workers and more than three-quarters of part-time workers—approximately 250,000 workers statewide—have no access to paid sick leave to take care of themselves - [YOUR VOICE IS NEEDED: Harmful budget cuts on the table TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/47383) - Yesterday, the Legislature passed LB34 – but WITHOUT the harmful tax increases. Thank you for calling your senator and making your voice heard! This is a HUGE win for hardworking Nebraskans and families. Today, we need you to speak up again on behalf of our state’s most vulnerable children and families. ❌ LB2, which is - [TAKE ACTION: Tell your senator to vote NO on LB34!](https://neappleseed.org/47381) - Today, the Legislature begins debate on LB34, into which key components of LB1 (the tax increase bill) have been amended. LB34 would create 70+ new taxes on everyday goods and services – such as hair care, veterinary services, local transportation, moving services, and storage services – that will disproportionately impact hardworking, everyday Nebraskans – particularly - [At the Capitol: Special Session Resumes Today at 1:00 PM](https://neappleseed.org/47368) - For everyone to have access to the good life, we must ensure that our tax system is equitable and works for all Nebraskans. We must also defend the funding of public systems that enable Nebraskans to meet their basic needs. As the Nebraska Legislature heads into its third full week of special session, Appleseed continues - [Remembering our friend, Justin Kemerling](https://neappleseed.org/47362) - Nebraska Appleseed mourns the loss of our friend and long-time collaborator, Justin Kemerling, an independent designer who used his creativity for activism, community-building, and positive social change. Justin has been a force for good who intersected with countless changemakers and causes in Nebraska, the midwest, and nationwide. We have been fortunate to work side-by-side with - [Statewide Welcoming Session 3: Lived Expertise on Local Boards – See you Friday!](https://neappleseed.org/47339) - We’re All In for Lived Expertise on Local Boards! Friday, August 9th from 10:00-11:30 am CT (9:00-10:30 am MT) on Zoom We are excited to see you Friday for Session 3 of the (Virtual) Statewide Welcoming Convening! For the third and final session of the annual Nebraska summer welcoming convening we will welcome three Nebraska - [Get to know the Medicaid expansion waiver: dental and vision](https://neappleseed.org/28504) - The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is delaying voter approved Medicaid expansion and is pursuing a complicated Medicaid expansion plan, known as a Section 1115 waiver. Contrary to voter intent, DHHS is seeking to deny important vision and dental coverage to Nebraskans in the expansion group that Do not prove that they - [RELEASE - Medicaid Expansion supporters submit 133,000 petition signatures on Thursday](https://neappleseed.org/24352) - ***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 - [Medicaid expansion wavier hearings announced](https://neappleseed.org/28538) - Today, the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services released their proposed plan to implement Medicaid expansion, a Section 1115 waiver known as the Heritage Health Adult Program. The proposed waiver includes a two-tiered benefits system, work and wellness requirements, and changes to retroactive eligibility. Over the next month, you have the opportunity to raise concerns - [MLK Day - How will you strengthen your community?](https://neappleseed.org/41717) - Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service. This holiday has become one day each year when people across the country step up to make communities more equitable and take action to help fulfill Dr. King’s dream. Together, we can strengthen ties to - [Take Action - Stand up for Voting Rights and end voting ban](https://neappleseed.org/22316) - Nebraskans like you have a great chance today to stand up for voting rights. LB 75, introduced by State Sen. Justin Wayne, has passed two rounds of debate and will be up for a Final Reading vote on Monday. This bill would end the arbitrary two-year delay before Nebraskans are able to vote after completing - [Get Out the Vote: Foster Youth Edition](https://neappleseed.org/47326) - It’s an election year, and it’s important for young people to use their voices and exercise their right to VOTE! New Voter ID laws require that you show an acceptable photo identification in order to vote. This is usually a driver’s license or state ID, but click here for a list of additional options (and - [Appropriations without legislative approval is unconstitutional](https://neappleseed.org/47318) - The Governor’s office has been taking unnecessary and questionable steps to circumvent Legislative processes regarding government spending and budgeting. Recently, it was reported that the Governor directed state agencies to cut $280 million from their operating expenses. He took these steps without Legislative input, in direct conflict with the budget passed by the Legislature, purportedly - [YOUR VOICE IS NEEDED: Oppose drastic budget cuts to critical programs](https://neappleseed.org/47277) - Nebraska needs to protect our state’s most vulnerable children and families, not cut them out of the system. ❌ LB2, which is currently being considered by the Appropriations Committee, would irresponsibly cut more than $80 million from DHHS’s budget. If passed, this bill would negatively impact sustainable funding for programs like SNAP and child care - [Tell Congress to expand the Child Tax Credit – Nebraska families can’t wait!](https://neappleseed.org/47274) - While we’re focusing on property taxes at the state policy level, the conversation about the Child Tax Credit is heating up again at the federal level. Unlike the Governor’s property tax proposal, which will likely result in a negative impact on low- and middle-income Nebraskans, the expanded federal Child Tax Credit back in 2021 cut - [TAKE ACTION: Oppose new taxes and drastic budget cuts in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/47268) - Last week, Governor Pillen called a special legislative session to drastically change tax policy in Nebraska. Bill introductions began last Thursday and wrapped up this morning, and public hearings began TODAY. We are concerned about proposed legislation that would create new taxes on everyday goods and services. We are also concerned about drastic budget cuts - [Special Legislative Session expected to begin this Thursday](https://neappleseed.org/47261) - It is anticipated that on Thursday, Governor Pillen will call a special legislative session to drastically change tax policy in Nebraska. - [We’re going to court over unconstitutional Medicaid terminations](https://neappleseed.org/47243) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed filed a lawsuit on behalf of a Nebraska Medicaid enrollee whose due process rights were violated by the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) because they were terminated from Medicaid without adequate notice. In March 2023, DHHS began reviewing Medicaid enrollments following the end of pandemic-era protections. DHHS has since - [New unpaid meal debt law will make Nebraska kids healthier and less hungry](https://neappleseed.org/45063) - Kids and families across Nebraska have one fewer worry today as a new law that requires school districts to more responsibly collect unpaid meal debt takes effect. Passed as part of LB1329, the new law bans districts from using debt collections agencies to collect school unpaid meal debt. The law goes into effect on July - [Nebraska Welcoming Session 2 on July 19! We’re All In For Language Access](https://neappleseed.org/47190) - Language access is foundational to creating communities and spaces where everyone feels they belong. We’ve heard from people across the state how important communication is and yet how hard it is. For the second session of the annual Nebraska summer welcoming convening we will welcome Brittany Ford! She will share best practices for providing language - [Who is your "One in Four"?](https://neappleseed.org/176) - The next time you are at a t-ball game, or a parade, or at the local pool, take a good look around. One in four working families in Nebraska is low-income, meaning that they have difficulty meeting their basic needs and struggle to get ahead. Maybe it's the high school janitor, whose kid plays third - [What does YOUR immigration system look like?](https://neappleseed.org/177) - Yesterday, together with faith, immigrant, community, civil rights, small business, legal, economic, and other community leaders, we began a nation-wide, community-based effort to reform immigration for America - for all of us, so that our country and communities can move forward. Here in Nebraska, we came together in both Lincoln and Omaha -with voices from - [Continue to Shine a Spotlight on Children's Behavioral Health Needs](https://neappleseed.org/178) - Last fall, 36 children, most of them teenagers and pre-teens, were dropped off under Nebraska's broad safe haven law. In November, the Nebraska Legislature went into special session and limited the law to infants up to 30 days old. However, the crisis that was exposed by the safe haven law - the older children in - [Nebraska Values: Community, Work Ethic and - Hope?](https://neappleseed.org/297) - Summertime in Nebraska brings with it some pretty wonderful things: corn on the cob, road trips down I-80 to lakes and campgrounds, and baby farm animals getting big enough to run and play. I don't care if talking about how much I love this wholesome Nebraska summertime stuff makes me sound like your Grandma. The - [It's Almost Here...](https://neappleseed.org/357) - Health care reform is in the air. Last week, Appleseed, Nebraska's Health Care for America Now coalition (HCAN), and SEIU, organized a rally in support of health care reform to counter a different event that was organized against health care reform. We had an impressive turn out given the spontaneous nature of the event -- - [Safe Food Comes from a Safe Workplace](https://neappleseed.org/436) - Every day, meatpacking workers in the U.S. face brutal working conditions in one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Injury rates are startlingly high - more than double that of U.S. manufacturing as a whole - and a 2005 GAO report found that even these government statistics undercount true injury rates. The industry's massive - [Health Care Can't Wait](https://neappleseed.org/4042) - An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes. It reflects a wisdom that we have often lost sight of in this country when it comes to health care. As a nation and a state, we have failed to make the investment in a rational health care system. The result - [The State of Opportunity in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/4043) - Just over six months ago, Nebraska voters, by a smaller margin than was anticipated, passed a constitutional amendment to prohibit laws and policies that help those who have traditionally and to this date, been denied equal access to a wide range of opportunities. As part of that debate, and recently at the national level with - [Fremont Reminds Us: Nebraska IS Home](https://neappleseed.org/4044) - If home is where the heart is, then Fremont definitely had mine this past weekend. Last Saturday, Fremont community members gathered together to launch "Nebraska Is Home Fremont," a local campaign to promote unity through conversations, education and community building. More than 50 teachers, pastors, friends, business owners, parents and children stood together under a - [Federal Review of Nebraska's Child Welfare System: Round Two](https://neappleseed.org/4045) - This spring, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released its most recent federal review of Nebraska's foster care system. Nebraska's foster care system was previously reviewed in 2002 and, while none of the 50 states were in full compliance with federal standards at that time, Nebraska was ranked among the worst-performing states. Nebraska - [What's for dinner?](https://neappleseed.org/4046) - This apparently simple question is deceptively complicated. Families everywhere grapple with "the dinner question" on a daily basis. What's in the fridge? When is Mom getting home from work? Can the vegetable hating seven-year-old be convinced to eat something with tomato sauce? And, increasingly, is there enough money in the checking account to stop at - [The CWSAP FCRLRC - Huh?](https://neappleseed.org/445) - At Nebraska Appleseed, we have a tendency to develop long, drawn-out, flowery titles for our work that don't lend themselves very well to catchy acronyms. Most Appleseeders credit our founding director, Milo Mumgaard, for this tradition, though it has out-lived even Milo's tenure. For example, the "Child Welfare System Accountability Program" or the "CWSAP" is - [The Purple Bus Lady comes to Nebraska...](https://neappleseed.org/459) - That's right. I said the Purple Bus Lady. She's not an official super hero, but she has shown an extraordinary dedication to health care reform and all those who are struggling to access the health care they need. Her name is Kathie McClure and she really does drive a purple bus. Kathie is a mother - [Multiple Choice](https://neappleseed.org/464) - One in ten Nebraska adults does not have a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Startling, isn't it? In our evolving, knowledge-based, technology-driving economy, the lack of basic skills is a real barrier - not only for workers in need of jobs that pay family supporting wages, but also for employers in need - [Unity Weekend](https://neappleseed.org/469) - Nebraskans come from many different cultures and walks of life where hopes and values unite people in a common search for a stronger community. This is exactly what "Nebraska is Home" groups will be celebrating this weekend in Crete, Fremont, and Grand Island. On Saturday, June 27th, "Nebraska Is Home Grand Island" will participate in - ["Aging Out" of Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/477) - Statistics on the long-term outcomes for former foster children are, unfortunately, bleak. While some youth "beat the odds", far more struggle compared to their peers on measures related to educational attainment, employment, poverty, homelessness, health care, early pregnancy, and involvement in the criminal justice system. However, recently enacted federal legislation, the Fostering Connections to Success - [Appleseed Helps Secure Two Child Welfare Victories at the Nebraska Supreme Court](https://neappleseed.org/502) - On Friday, the Nebraska Supreme Court issued precedent-setting decisions in two cases in which Appleseed was involved. In the first case, In re Interest of Angelica L. and Daniel L., the Nebraska Supreme Court determined that the state acted improperly by terminating the rights of a Guatemalan mother to her two children on the basis - [Trust Movement: Health Care Reform in Action](https://neappleseed.org/507) - A not so famous, but entirely important psychologist, Alfred Adler once said, "Trust movement. Life happens at the level of events, not words. Trust movement." I was reminded of these words as I stood on top of Upper Senate Park last week and looked over the thousands of people standing in the blistering sun rallying - [Celebrating Shared Values](https://neappleseed.org/517) - As the Fourth of July weekend recedes into the distance, I am happily left with thoughts of picnics, Nebraska summer days, and what makes us great as a country. A couple of weeks ago we reported on Nebraska Is Home events that were scheduled to take place in three different Nebraska towns. In the days - [Being the Change](https://neappleseed.org/528) - What does a good public assistance program look like? From the Appleseed point of view, basic principles would apply: Folks would have all the information they need to make good decisions, clients would have opportunities for choice and self-determination, and all people would be treated with dignity and respect. Our legal and public policy reform efforts continually - [Giving Nebraskans a Choice](https://neappleseed.org/37210) - I'm writing this blog entry while watching President Obama's interview on health care with ABC news and a room full of advocates, providers, economists, businesses, and everyday Americans. It is remarkable to me, and very encouraging, that so many people are engaged and that we are having this kind of public dialogue on this critical - [I Left My Heart in Scottsbluff County](https://neappleseed.org/37211) - Visionary. Strategic. Innovative. These are a few of the words I would use to describe the folks that attended our Town Hall meeting in Scottsbluff, Nebraska http://www.wehavejobs.net/ last week. Scottsbluff may be considered a small community by some, but the leaders I spoke with had big ideas for their community and for the state. The - [White House Meeting a Major Step for Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37212) - A few days ago, we saw a major step forward for immigration reform this year. On June 25, President Obama held a bipartisan meeting with Congressional leaders to talk about moving immigration reform as a top priority. This meeting demonstrated the momentum that has been building around the issue, including thousands of calls to the - [The Enforcement of the Indian Child Welfare Act in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/551) - The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a federal and state law enacted in 1978 to curb the practice of state child welfare agencies removing Native American children from their homes and placing them in non-Indian foster and adoptive homes. This practice had become so widespread that, at the time of ICWA's enactment, 25 to - ["The arc of history is long, but it bends towards justice." MLK Jr.](https://neappleseed.org/567) - In the next few months, it will be my job to tell people about a recent Nebraska Appleseed "win." This year, Nebraska Appleseed, along with Senator Harms from Scottsbluff and numerous advocates and supporters, worked to pass LB 458, legislation that allows families that participate in the Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) program to pursue - [Child Death Case Underscores Need for Transparency and Accurate Investigations](https://neappleseed.org/601) - The recent death of a 12 year old boy in Omaha, allegedly at the hands of his mother, who had called HHS seeking information about placing him in foster care, has raised questions about the state's investigation of child abuse reports. Not only had the boy's mother called HHS, but family members reported that they - [The Need for Equity in Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/607) - On Wednesday night in Omaha, the members of the Nebraska Health Care for America Now coalition hosted a community conversation on health disparities among minorities. This was the third in a series of conversations about the health disparities that currently exist in our system and how and why those disparities should be addressed in national - [Lessons from a Young Lawyer](https://neappleseed.org/37213) - It has been five years since I was sworn into my first bar in the state of Wisconsin. In fact, just the other day, I received information in the mail from my law school about our upcoming class reunion. The ABA's Young Lawyers Division defines a "young lawyer" as a lawyer under the age of - [Hidden Heartache in Nebraska's Unemployment Numbers](https://neappleseed.org/37214) - Nebraska newspapers recently reported that our state has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 4.4%. Certainly, this is a positive sign for Nebraska's economy - and it's good that we are not seeing the record breaking unemployment rates of over 10% in Nevada, Oregon, Michigan, and California. However, in our role as an - [Involving Local Police in Federal Immigration Enforcement Is Dangerous Policy](https://neappleseed.org/37215) - Our failure to create a workable immigration system continues to wreak havoc on many other community policies - the latest example is a new extension of the federal program to enlist local police in federal immigration enforcement duties. Asking state and local law enforcement to don a second hat as federal immigration officers has dangerous - [Movement on Reform . . . We Must Not Wait](https://neappleseed.org/37216) - Congress took two big steps closer to health reform in the last two days. Tuesday, the House of Representatives released a health care reform bill which is the result of a joint effort between three committees: Energy & Commerce, Ways & Means, and Education and Labor. Then on Wednesday, the Health, Education, Labor, and - [Nebraska Immigrant Family Bonds Protected by State Supreme Court](https://neappleseed.org/37217) - Since the formation of the our Child Welfare System Accountability Program in 2003, Nebraska Appleseed has been dedicated to enforce constitutional, federal, and state statutory requirements for providing adequate child welfare services in the State of Nebraska, and using legal advocacy to support needed policy reform initiatives. In particular, we are committed to working on - [Failure is Not An Option](https://neappleseed.org/37218) - Senator Reid announced this afternoon that the Senate would not be able to have a full vote on a health care bill before August. This is extremely disappointing. The delay means that our families must wait even longer for the health care they need, must struggle harder to afford their coverage, and more people will - [Op`por*tu"ni*ty, noun; pl. Opportunities](https://neappleseed.org/37219) - Opportunity is a crucial word for Nebraska Appleseed. It is central to our mission for the Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Program. Part of our fundamental purpose is to grow the vision of opportunity for all in Nebraska and to work towards opening the doors to basic needs, education, and job opportunity in our state. This summer, we - [The Color of Equality - Is there Justice for all?](https://neappleseed.org/37220) - Nebraska Appleseed, ACLU Nebraska, and NAACP Lincoln Branch have been hosting a series of conversations on racial justice, discussing life in Nebraska post-424, the ballot initiative that banned affirmative action in our state. The conversations are an opportunity for the community to gather together to learn about and discuss issues surrounding racial justice. We've used - [Valuing Work, Valuing Workers](https://neappleseed.org/611) - In recent months, the economic downturn has strengthened the value that Nebraskans place on a hard day's work. Now, more than ever, we recognize and appreciate the opportunity to earn a living to support our families. This is, in part, why we can celebrate the recent minimum wage increase from $6.55 to $7.25 which will - [Fostering Connections for Nebraska's Children](https://neappleseed.org/615) - In June, I blogged about the long-term outcomes for children who "age out" of foster care and the opportunity presented by the new federal Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act to extend foster care to children up to age 21. While a number of important provisions in the Act focus on improving outcomes - ["Know Your Rights" Video Premier!](https://neappleseed.org/634) - [kaltura-widget wid="o1s82qbvqo" width="400" height="365" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 5px;" addpermission="" editpermission="" align="right" /]Recently, I attended a great event entitled "Tools for Education" at an organization that is doing excellent work in Nebraska, the Center for People in Need. In addition to sharing backpacks and notebooks to prepare kids for the upcoming school year, the Center for - [Civil Health Care Debate, We Hardly Knew Ye...](https://neappleseed.org/647) - When I started as a law clerk for the Health Care Program at Nebraska Appleseed, I saw the summer as an opportunity to delve into what was sure to be an interesting, if somewhat technical, debate over health care reform. I did not expect those outside of the health care or political fields to become - [Back to School Breakfast](https://neappleseed.org/655) - Today many children across the state don new backpacks, sharpen their pencils, and begin the giddy walk to the first day of school. Thinking about the first day of a new school year always makes me remember the nervous feeling I would have in my stomach on the first day, accompanied by a series of - [Special Visas Available to Abused and Neglected Foreign-Born Children](https://neappleseed.org/662) - An increasing number of children and families find themselves caught in the intersection of our country's complex - and broken - immigration and child welfare systems. The first goal in these cases should be for the state to provide culturally appropriate services to reunify the family when that is appropriate and can be done safely. - [Democracy and Truth in the Health Care Debate](https://neappleseed.org/669) - An impressive number of Nebraskans turned out for a public meeting with Senator Nelson on health care today. I ventured to guess that at least 600 people showed up. But apparently my skill (or lack thereof) at estimating crowds hasn't improved because the media reported that 1,000 + turned out. 420 were able to sit - [Second White House Meeting on Immigration Reform Responds to Thousands of Community Questions](https://neappleseed.org/676) - While we’re immersed in one of the most important opportunities for our country’s future, the movement for health care reform, the White House and community advocates last week took a moment to demonstrate continued urgency and momentum for a fixing broken immigration system. Nearly 100 labor, business, law enforcement, faith and community leaders met with - [A Tall Order for Foster Care Reform](https://neappleseed.org/694) - One of my first blog posts this summer focused on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ release of its most recent federal review of Nebraska’s foster care system. As a result of the state’s failure to pass the federal review, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS) is required to develop - [Health Care Reform - What's in it for me?](https://neappleseed.org/37221) - It goes without saying that meaningful health care reform is essential to provide coverage for the tens of millions currently uninsured. But what do the reform bills currently moving through Congress do for the far greater number of people who already have insurance? Insured Americans are already bearing a huge burden of out-of-pocket costs that - [Immigration Court Craps Shoot](https://neappleseed.org/37222) - Just over a year ago, images from the Postville, Iowa, immigration raid shocked Americans and caused many to question how this could possibly be coming out of the American legal system. We saw large groups of detainees shackled together in the National Cattle Congress livestock fairground, denied access to legal advice, and processed in group - [We Need a System that doesn't Leave People Behind](https://neappleseed.org/37223) - The Health Care Reform debate is currently playing out across Nebraska as town hall meetings, ads and rally’s are happening in many communities. There is a very vocal and well organized voice that would like to stop any health care reform in Congress. Today they will have their rally in Omaha and will likely get - [Nebraskans Turn Out for Health Care Reform](https://neappleseed.org/701) - [singlepic id=111 w=320 h=240 float=left]"Wow!" was all I could think to say yesterday after the fabulous rally at the State Capitol. Between 600 and 700 Nebraskans turned out to show their support for health insurance reform! Rally goers heard from several speakers, including a representative from the White House, Nick Rathod, who is a native - [Nebraska Faith Leaders and Public Call for Action on Immigration Reform This Year](https://neappleseed.org/707) - [singlepic id=119 w=320 h=240 float=left]Yesterday, we were honored to take part in a powerful event highlighting the continuing urgency for immigration reform. A large gathering of prominent local leaders from diverse faith traditions held a prayer vigil with people of faith and good will calling for the humane treatment of all immigrant families and a - [State Fair Stories](https://neappleseed.org/720) - I spent last Sunday helping to staff the Health Care Reform booth at the Nebraska State Fair. Amid the Mexican cigars, infra-red spas and the only glue you’ll ever need, I stood with information from the American Cancer Society, AARP and Nebraska Appleseed ready to educate the passing fair-goers and advocate for health care reform. - [More than Numbers](https://neappleseed.org/726) - One in ten Nebraskans currently lives in poverty according to new Census data released last week. One in ten…One in ten folks driving down I-80 on your commute to work this morning…One in ten parents at your PTA meeting…One in ten people attending your church service on Sunday… The truth is that the recession is - [The Love of a Mother Transcends Language](https://neappleseed.org/732) - What makes a good mother? Is it her ability to love and nurture her children? Is it her ability to provide them with the emotional, physical and spiritual support they need? Or is it her ability to speak English? Most people would choose love, nurture and support. But in courtrooms across the country, this seemingly - [Constitution Day](https://neappleseed.org/737) - On September 17, 1787, the Founding Fathers signed the Constitution, marking one of the most important historical moments in U.S. history. What does Constitution Day have to do with health care? Well, in August we saw the Constitution thrown around in confusing ways by opponents to health reform. Today, on the anniversary of the signing - [The Good News](https://neappleseed.org/742) - In these times of economic struggle, it’s tempting to focus only on the difficulties facing our state and our families. While the Low Income Self Sufficiency Program will continue to address issues ranging from unemployment to increased poverty rates, this week, we’re taking a hiatus from the problematic to bring you some good news. And, - [Fix the Baucus Bill](https://neappleseed.org/745) - Health care reform took one step further this past week when Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) unveiled his proposal for health care reform. Now every committee of jurisdiction has come out with a health care reform bill which is a huge achievement. The Senate Finance Committee bill will play a critical role in - [Ending Childhood Hunger in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/752) - September is Hunger Awareness Month. As a part of this nationwide effort to draw attention to the issue of hunger in America, Nebraska Appleseed is releasing a report tomorrow entitled “Ending Childhood Hunger in Nebraska: Strategies for Improving and Maximizing Child Nutrition Programs.” The report shares the unsettling finding that one in seven children in - [Safe Haven Revisited](https://neappleseed.org/761) - It has been about a year since Nebraska’s original safe haven law went into effect and 36 children, most of them teenagers, were dropped off at local hospitals before the Legislature went into special session to restrict the law to infants up to 30 days old. This spring, lawmakers took a first step in addressing - [Speaking Truth to Power](https://neappleseed.org/765) - Yesterday was an exciting day for Appleseed's Health Care Access Program. We participated in a briefing on Capitol Hill about health care reform and rural communities. The event brought the voices of rural people to Congress and brought attention to rural health care issues which have often been absent from the national debate or used - [Immigrants and Public Benefits in Nebraska: An Update on Implementation of LB 403](https://neappleseed.org/768) - In the past few months you might have heard about Legislative Bill 403 (LB 403), which went into effect on October 1, 2009. LB 403 was passed by the Nebraska Unicameral in March, 2009. LB 403 has two distinct parts. First, LB 403 requires state agencies and political subdivisions to verify the lawful presence of - [The "Good Life Index"](https://neappleseed.org/37224) - What is “The Good Life”? We Nebraskans love to talk about it, but I don’t often hear people define it. Think about it for a minute – what does “The Good Life” mean to you? This term means different things to different people, but generally, it refers to a high quality of life that involves - ["Come to the plant and you will see": Meatpacking Workers Want You to Know About Unsafe Conditions](https://neappleseed.org/773) - Last week we released a major study of meatpacking workers’ perspectives of health and safety conditions in the industry, surveying 455 workers in one of the country’s biggest meat-producing states: "The Speed Kills You": The Voice of Nebraska's Meatpacking Workers. Nebraska produces one of every four steaks and hamburgers in the country. Official statistics already - [Thousands of Families Call for Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/785) - I just returned from an inspiring march on Washington, D.C., where thousands of families gathered on Tuesday to call for action to fix our broken immigration system. At the event, Congressman Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) – who earlier this year hosted a Families United interfaith tour to help educate members of Congress about the effect of - [How Can Nebraska Come Out Ahead In The Economic Recovery?](https://neappleseed.org/793) - Brain drain, a high proportion of low-wage jobs, and the current economic downturn all negatively impact the well-being of Nebraska’s families, communities, and economy. At the same time, our workforce is one of the most dedicated in the nation and, in spite of recent increases, our unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the - [Make Your Voice Heard on the Budget](https://neappleseed.org/799) - The impending budget shortfall in the state will force Nebraskans to make some very tough and clear decisions about our priorities. Senator Nordquist and members of the Appropriations Committee have created a new way for you to express your priorities to them as they work on these difficult budget cuts. They want to hear from - [The Floor Is Yours](https://neappleseed.org/804) - Last week I attended a town hall meeting hosted by the State Senators representing Lincoln and Lancaster County about the current budget shortfall and the upcoming special session of the State Legislature to address the gap. I was genuinely touched by the number of Nebraskans speaking out on behalf of low income families. Person after - [6 Tips for Nonprofit Advocacy](https://neappleseed.org/812) - Did you know that in issuing regulations on lobbying, the Internal Revenue Service has stated that public charities “may lobby freely” so long as lobbying is within specified limits? Last week, I had the pleasure of sharing that message at the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) Annual Summit http://www.nonprofitam.org/ The Summit was a great - [Learning (Aprendizaje)](https://neappleseed.org/816) - Last week, I was lucky enough to sit in on an adult education class in a small Nebraska community. The first assignment was to write a simple letter to a friend. Many of the students were attending the class in order to learn English. In an attempt to see what the class might be like - [Be a Part of History on Wednesday](https://neappleseed.org/820) - On Wednesday night (7pm central), join a national town hall phone call with Congressman Luis Gutierrez for an exciting conversation about next steps for rational and humane immigration reform. People will be joining the town hall from parties all across the country. Take the simple step of hosting a party. It can be very informal – just - [Moving One Step Closer to Health Insurance Reform](https://neappleseed.org/824) - This week we move closer than ever before to enact comprehensive health insurance reform legislation. For months we have been talking about health reform. It has been a long process, but an end is soon approaching. On Saturday, November 7, the House of Representatives passed its version of health reform legislation. The House bill will - [Freedom at Last: So Long, Lou](https://neappleseed.org/831) - These past two weeks have been big weeks for immigration reform: Secretary Napolitano announced that the Administration will push for immigration reform early in 2010, rather than waiting until after the mid-term elections, Rep. Luis Gutierrez held a virtual town hall meeting on reform for more than 60,000 people in house parties around the country, - [Nebraskans Deserve a Vote](https://neappleseed.org/838) - This past Saturday the Senate honored the basic principles of our democracy and voted to begin the debate to allow the health reform bill to reach the Senate floor. Sixty Senators voted on the motion to proceed, while thirty-nine voted against it. We are disappointed that Senator Mike Johanns was one of those thirty-nine who - [Kitchen Tables](https://neappleseed.org/844) - I love Thanksgiving. My Dad (my favorite farmer) cooks for us, and this year, I have not one but two beautiful nieces to giggle with at the table.  This is what valuing family means to me. I am grateful for a good meal, for family, and even for the baby drool and stuffing that will - [National Summit on Jobs and Economic Growth: An Ongoing National Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/847) - This Thursday, December 3, the Obama Administration will hold a Summit on Jobs and Economic growth. The summit will bring together business leaders and financial experts to talk about ideas for expanding the economy and creating jobs. This is an important step in moving forward the national conversation about jobs. Across the nation, this is - [Make Your Voice Heard on the Senate Health Bill](https://neappleseed.org/851) - The Senate began debate on its health care reform bill this past Monday. Debate will likely last a few weeks with a vote hopefully occurring before Christmas. The House already passed its version of health care reform legislation. Now is a critical time to make your voice heard about health care reform as the Senate - [Amendments Would Improve Senate Health Care Bill](https://neappleseed.org/863) - The Senate has proposed and debated amendments to its health care reform legislation these past two weeks and there is more to come. A vote in the Senate might come as early as next Wednesday, although we think that is unlikely, but is likely to come by next Saturday, December 19th. We are down to - [2,100 People](https://neappleseed.org/866) - Think for a minute: Who do you know that lost a job in 2009?  Chances are that you can think of someone. I can think of many: The wife of an old friend, a caller to Nebraska Appleseed’s Intake line, a parent I know at a local school…Job loss has been difficult for many families - [Hunger Headlines](https://neappleseed.org/872) - For many of us, the holidays bring great feasts – traditions ranging from turkey and gravy to oyster stew to Mom’s infamous Christmas cookies. For many of us, they also make our thoughts turn to those who are not able to celebrate the holidays in the same way. In the weeks surrounding the holidays, hunger - [The Right Thing to Do - Passing Senate Health Bill](https://neappleseed.org/37225) - Early Monday morning the Senate took the first of three major votes required to pass the health care reform bill in the Senate. The second took place today. We believe this continued movement on reform is a critical and positive step. While we recognize that the Senate bill is not perfect or everything health care - [Immigration Reform Is a Critical Part of Our Economic Recovery](https://neappleseed.org/876) - We know the devastating impact our broken immigration system is having on Nebraska families and communities. According to a new report, reform is also urgent for economic reasons. Raising the Floor for American Workers: The Economic Benefits of Comprehensive Immigration Reform – released jointly by the Immigration Policy Center and the Center for American Progress - [Finishing Reform Right](https://neappleseed.org/881) - This week, Congress is negotiating the final health care reform bill that will make critical improvements to our broken health care system.  This is great news for the 224,000 Nebraskans – 45,000 of them children – who lack coverage today, and the thousands who struggle to afford their current coverage. But for health care reform - [Finish The Job - The Need For Reform Remains Unchanged](https://neappleseed.org/885) - (originally posted at New Nebraska Network) This past week has been full of speculation about the future of health care reform which has been frustrating for health care reform advocates. Many of us have worked tirelessly this past year to make comprehensive health care reform a reality, coming further than any previous generation. The recent - [Equal ACCESS](https://neappleseed.org/888) - Nebraska Appleseed has used the tag line "Core Values, Common Ground, Equal Justice" for a long time. We look to these central principles in a variety of ways about a variety of issues. Last Thursday, our own Becky Gould testified regarding ACCESS Nebraska - our state's on-line application system for public benefits programs. And, in - [Report Documents Immigration Enforcement's Harmful Effects on Children](https://neappleseed.org/909) - While our country is engaged in an intense debate about immigration policy, largely absent from the discussion is the impact of our nation’s policies on the children of immigrants. Today, there are an estimated 5.5 million children with unauthorized immigrant parents, about three-quarters of whom are U.S.-born citizens. Last week, the Urban Institute released a - [Changing the Odds](https://neappleseed.org/913) - Last week, we launched our Economic Opportunity Campaign, which is a values based policy agenda to build opportunity in the state.  The Campaign puts forth a vision where programs and policies change the odds for working Nebraskans. The vision includes job training, adult education, child care assistance, and access to health care. In that spirit, - [A Bumpy Ride](https://neappleseed.org/919) - Increasingly, the economic downturn is leading Americans, and Nebraskans, to access public benefits programs such as Child Care Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In fact, the New York Times ran a recent story about “the new poor” entitled “Millions of Unemployed Face Years without Jobs”. The story chronicles the experiences of folks - [Two Important Child Welfare Bills Need Our Support](https://neappleseed.org/925) - Last month, the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee heard testimony on two important child welfare bills that Nebraska Appleseed strongly supports. LB 971, introduced by Sen. Kathy Campbell, would implement several key provisions of the federal Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 into Nebraska statute. Specifically, the bill requires the state to place - [Healthy Babies or Politics?](https://neappleseed.org/931) - Monday, March 1st was not a good day for Nebraska. On Monday, over 1,500 women and their unborn children lost their access to prenatal care. For decades Nebraska has been a state that prioritized the health of the mothers and babies in this state. On Monday, the Administration and the Department of Health and Human - [Making the Grade on Child Nutrition](https://neappleseed.org/938) - I am blogging today from Washington, D.C.  I am attending the Food Research and Action Center’s Annual Anti-Hunger Policy conference and visiting our federal delegation. There is a real movement here surrounding President Obama’s goal of ending childhood hunger by 2015. This would mean that by the time our current class of sixth grade students - [Putting Nebraska Students First](https://neappleseed.org/37226) - Educational opportunity for all Nebraska students was the focus of a committee hearing at the State Capitol last week. The Education Committee heard testimony on LB 1001, which would repeal Nebraska’s in-state tuition law—an important educational policy for Nebraska’s future. This law allows Nebraska students who are undocumented to pay in-state tuition rates if they - [Common Sense and Prenatal Care](https://neappleseed.org/37227) - For years Nebraska has had a common sense, compassionate, and fiscally sound policy of providing prenatal care to low-income mothers regardless of immigration status. But now, over 1,000 pregnant women face the terrifying prospect of losing their coverage for prenatal care as of March 1st. One of the worst parts of this? The coverage could - [OSHA Hears the Voices of Meatpacking Workers](https://neappleseed.org/942) - Last week, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) opened its doors to stakeholders from around the country for an all-day “OSHA Listens” event in its Washington, DC headquarters. The purpose of the event was for OSHA to receive comments and suggestions on key issues facing the agency in order to improve OSHA’s efforts to - [Just The Facts Please - The Truth About Prenatal Care](https://neappleseed.org/949) - Nearly another whole week has gone by for over 1,500 women and children cut off from prenatal care. Thankfully, there were a few bright spots this week in the effort to pass LB 1110. The Omaha World Herald came out with a very strong editorial in support of LB 1110. Other press stories made clear - [Politics Prevail](https://neappleseed.org/953) - Sad news today. LB 1110, Senator Campbell's bill to restore prenatal care coverage, was "bracketed" today by unanimous consent. This means that, while the bill is technically still alive, it won't come up on the floor this session and is essentially dead. Unfortunately, politics prevailed over good policy and there weren't enough votes to pass - [Legislation that Works for Nebraska Workers](https://neappleseed.org/957) - Nebraska workers and Nebraska Appleseed have cause to celebrate as the legislature has passed a bill, LB 961, that works for working people in our state. LB 961, introduced by Senator Council, will make it easier for job training programs in rural and high poverty areas to access economic development funds through the Job Training - [Marching Toward Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/961) - On Sunday, I joined fellow Nebraskans and over 200,000 people on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to march for common sense and humane immigration reform. http://journalstar.com/news/local/article_9255ba4a-354d-11df-851a-001cc4c03286.html The Nebraska delegation consisted of immigrants, faith leaders, businesspersons, students, educators, and community leaders from towns large and small across the state. Representatives from the League of Nebraska - [Two Steps Forward, One Step Back](https://neappleseed.org/966) - It was quite a week for health care. (Please keep reading for important info on a sign on letter for prenatal care.) First, on Tuesday, President Obama signed the health insurance reform legislation into law. Last night, the final amendments to that legislation were passed by the House, completing the long and arduous process of - [The Politics of Hate](https://neappleseed.org/985) - Yesterday, the efforts to restore prenatal care to all low-income women in Nebraska in this legislative session came to an end.  The Legislature passed an amendment that may help a handful of women access prenatal care who were cut off on March 1st and are victims of domestic violence. We are obviously glad to see - [Questions and Answers about Medicaid Coverage of Prenatal Care for Pregnant Women](https://neappleseed.org/992) - For many years, Nebraska’s Medicaid program covered prenatal care for the unborn children of pregnant women, regardless of a woman’s immigration status. But, on March 1, many unborn children of pregnant women lost prenatal care covered by Medicaid. Since this changed happened there seems to be confusion about what services Medicaid will continue to cover. - [Underfunded Child Welfare Contracts Put Kids and Agencies at Risk](https://neappleseed.org/995) - On Friday, CEDARS Youth Services announced that it is terminating its contract with HHS to provide out-of-home services as part of the state’s privatization of foster care. In a statement to the Lincoln Journal Star, CEDARS president and CEO Jim Blue cited financial reasons and indicated that projections showed the agency would lose $5.5 million - [Landmark Supreme Court Decision Protects the Due Process Rights of Immigrants](https://neappleseed.org/999) - Last week the U.S. Supreme Court announced a landmark decision that upholds due process rights for immigrant Americans. The Court held in a 7-2 decision in Padilla v. Kentucky that immigrant defendants have a right to be informed by their counsel about the possible immigration consequences of a guilty plea prior to that client entering - ["9500 Liberty" Screening at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/1003) - Tuesday, April 20, 2010 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Student Union University of Nebraska at Lincoln 14th & R Street Lincoln, NE 68588 9500 Liberty reveals the startling vulnerability of Prince William County, Virginia, targeted by national anti-immigration networks using the internet to frighten and intimidate lawmakers and citizens. After the film there will be - [The Right Choice for Nebraska Workers](https://neappleseed.org/1008) - Nebraska Appleseed has been a long time advocate for working families. In particular, we are supportive of programs that are responsive to family needs in difficult economic times. Unemployment Insurance is one such program, and last week Nebraska’s State Senators gave first round approval to a bill (LB 1020) that would make it even stronger. - [The Reward of Working in Public Interest](https://neappleseed.org/1011) - I was recently asked by my law school alma mater (University of Nebraska College of Law) to reflect on my choice to pursue public interest law in Nebraska and how law school had prepared me for that task. As I wrote out my answers, I realized how lucky I was to stumble upon Nebraska Appleseed - [Time to Take the Nebraska Education & Welfare Model Nationwide](https://neappleseed.org/1017) - Education is one of the clearest pathways out of poverty. Nebraska Appleseed has been repeating this statement nearly since our inception, and our work has paid off: Nebraska welfare recipients are able to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree full time, and recently, our state expanded the time frame that recipients can pursue an Associate’s Degree from - [Federal Government Officials Pledge Reforms to Protect Latino Workers’ Health and Safety](https://neappleseed.org/1027) - I had the exciting opportunity last week to attend the historic National Action Summit for Latino Worker Health and Safety, cosponsored by OSHA/U.S. Department of Labor and the National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH), in Houston, Texas. Following the summit, I participated in a 3-day immigrant workers' gathering where I had the chance - [Child Welfare Privatization Crisis](https://neappleseed.org/1030) - Since our last post on the child welfare privatization following the announcement that CEDARS Youth Services terminated its contract with HHS, there has been more bad news. The state’s contract with a second agency, Visinet, was terminated two weeks ago and Visinet subsequently filed bankruptcy. Then, last Thursday night, Visinet closed its doors after they - [Secret Deportation Quotas and Shocking Tactics In Arizona Show Current Immigration Policies Are In a Tailspin](https://neappleseed.org/1033) - Recent reports and shockingly heavy-handed tactics in Arizona earlier this month are showing an immigration enforcement regime in a tailspin. Hundreds of armed agents and helicopters descended upon four Arizona communities in the largest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation since the Obama Administration took office. This followed a trail of recent reports exposing failures - [Common Ground](https://neappleseed.org/1042) - I’ve been fortunate this week to participate in meetings with Jay Connor, Executive Director of the Collaboratory for Community Support. This organization is dedicated to helping communities break down silos and work together towards positive outcomes. He uses a quotation from movie director Frances Ford Coppola to discuss the need for collaboration in community initiatives. - [Hundreds of Thousands March Nationwide for Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/1061) - On Saturday, hundreds of thousands of people marched in communities large and small across the United States to call for immediate action to create a workable immigration system that upholds our values and moves us forward together. This urgent need for the federal government to fix our broken immigration system has become painfully clear in - [Immediate Benefits of Health Reform](https://neappleseed.org/1065) - The health care reform law is a major win for Nebraska children and families. It will help tens of thousands of Nebraskans gain coverage, provide small businesses with tax credits for more affordable coverage, and will provide serious consumer protections to everyone in Nebraska. There are several key benefits for Nebraskans that will go into - [Foster Care Double Standard](https://neappleseed.org/1070) - There seems to be a troubling double standard in the Nebraska foster care system that has come to light in a new way in recent weeks as contracts with two of the five private agencies have been terminated due to funding problems. One standard is that parents in the system are often faulted for having - [Arizona Boycott & Nebraska Voices Increase Urgency for Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/1082) - Across the country last week, a growing list of entities began to announce boycotts against the state of Arizona in protest of the recently passed anti-immigrant law SB 1070. These organizations include the Asian American Justice Center, the Service Employees International Union, the United Food and Commercial Workers, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human - [Federal Government Officials Pledge Reforms to Protect Latino Workers’ Health and Safety](https://neappleseed.org/38497) - I had the exciting opportunity last week to attend the historic National Action Summit for Latino Worker Health and Safety, cosponsored by OSHA/U.S. Department of Labor and the National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH), in Houston, Texas. Following the summit, I participated in a 3-day immigrant workers' gathering where I had the chance - [Our Friends and Neighbors](https://neappleseed.org/1077) - What does the economic downturn and emerging recovery mean to Nebraskans? Specifically, what does it mean to our friends and neighbors, the folks we sit next to at church or PTA meetings at the high school track meet? Over the past few years, we’ve heard multiple answers to those questions. We hear that times are - [State-level Immigration Enforcement Is Costly & Confusing](https://neappleseed.org/1090) - On Friday I had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion on state-level immigration and integration policy at the UNO-hosted conference "4th Annual Latino/Latin American Cumbre/Summit of the Great Plains." An audience of participants and panelists from around the country and the world gathered to discuss state-level policy approaches to immigration. As part of - [Moving the World Along](https://neappleseed.org/1096) - "I long to accomplish great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty to accomplish humble tasks as if they were great and noble. The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of the tiny pushes of each honest worker." - Helen Keller - [Prenatal Care: The Conversation Continues](https://neappleseed.org/1109) - In March the Governor and the Department of Health and Human Services decided to stop a decades old policy of providing prenatal care to all low-income women and over 1,600 women and unborn children lost access to prenatal care. A simple administrative fix is still available to remedy this change and Appleseed and others will - [Nebraska Appleseed's Infant-At-Work Program](https://neappleseed.org/1112) - Since our founding in Milo and Andrea's basement, Appleseed has been a family friendly organization and one that strives to create a positive work-life balance. This commitment takes many forms. One example is Appleseed's Infant-At-Work Program in which staff who have worked at Appleseed for at least one year are permitted to bring a new - [To Serve or Save? How About Both?](https://neappleseed.org/1116) - Last week Appleseed testified on a major shift in Nebraska's Medicaid program. The state is moving to a "full-risk" managed care program in ten counties contiguous to Omaha and Lincoln on August 1. For over a year Appleseed has been expressing serious reservations about this change. (You can read our testimony here) The fundamental orientation - [Sometimes Historic Change Takes Heroic Acts](https://neappleseed.org/1128) - Last week, Nebraska student and wrestling champion Daniel Dominguez walked from O'Neill to Lincoln - covering 200 miles on foot - to raise awareness about the federal DREAM Act. To learn more about his incredible journey and the critical importance of the legislation, go to www.passthedreamact.org. The DREAM Act is federal legislation that would allow - [Smart Choices in Hard Times](https://neappleseed.org/1137) - Nebraska's budget should reflect Nebraska's priorities. This seems like a simple statement, but really, it says quite a lot. It says that Nebraska values of family and community should drive our budget choices, it says that our shared resources should be directed at strengthening our families and workers, and it says that we should invest - [Crying Wolf](https://neappleseed.org/1139) - Written with Robert McEwen This week marks the three month anniversary of the passage of the health care reform bill. In just that short time we have already seen positive changes. Parents can keep their children on their family coverage until age 26, seniors have begun receiving checks to help them fill the donut hole - [Nebraska Youth Take Positive Action After "Green Card" Incident](https://neappleseed.org/37228) - Last Tuesday, a deeply unfortunate event cast a shadow over the Nebraska state boys' soccer championship - one that might serve as a reminder to us all. Following Lincoln East High School's win over Omaha South High School, a cascade of homemade "green cards" were thrown onto the soccer field. About 60 percent of the - [Coverage for What Ails You - What a Novel Idea](https://neappleseed.org/37229) - One of the main points of agreement in the health care reform debate (and yes, there was actually much agreement on about 80% of the bill), was the elimination of pre-existing condition denials by insurers. Its common sense: health insurance isn't really insurance if it won't cover the very health problem for which you need - [Economic Independence and Access to Health Care Go Hand-in-Hand](https://neappleseed.org/37230) - For many years, Nebraska Appleseed has worked to protect access to health care for low-income families in our state. We continued to strive towards this goal recently in the Nebraska Supreme Court, by representing a class of over 400 low-income families that had lost Medicaid health care coverage. In the case of Davio v. Nebraska - [Comprehensive Immigration Reform Urgently Needed](https://neappleseed.org/1151) - Yesterday, the President gave a long-awaited public speech on immigration. The speech reflected what we know first hand here in Nebraska; the need for common-sense immigration reform is urgent. Describing a "creaky system" of "patchwork fixes and ill-conceived revisions," the President affirmed his commitment to an immigration reform package that provides a path to citizenship - [Will You Stand Up to Anti-Immigrant Sentiment In Our State?](https://neappleseed.org/1156) - You've seen how over the past few months a few members of our state and communities have pursued misguided and harmful public policy designed to create fear and division and turn neighbor against neighbor: Governor Heineman's administration eliminated pre-natal care for children of undocumented women Fremont voters passed a divisive and unconstitutional anti-immigrant ordinance, creating - [Hunger Doesn't Take a Vacation](https://neappleseed.org/1290) - Ahh, summertime. For me, summertime in Nebraska brings back memories of swimming lessons, playing with kittens, and eating picnics of sandwiches, peaches and popsicles on our front porch. Unfortunately, for too many kids in Nebraska, summertime is a time of hunger, rather than one of carefree days and picnic meals. According to a new report, - [An Urgent Conversation: The 2010 Building Nebraska's Future Workforce Forum](https://neappleseed.org/1453) - Nebraska is at a crossroads. The choices we make today about building and supporting our workforce will impact quality of life in our state for years to come. According to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, Nebraska ranks 7th in the nation for future need for workers with post-secondary education, yet only - [Conor Oberst, Nebraska Musicians Sponsor Concert for Equality](https://neappleseed.org/1985) - This Saturday, Omaha native Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes is hosting the Concert for Equality to benefit the ACLU of Nebraska's lawsuit against Fremont's divisive and discriminatory immigration ordinance. The sold-out 5pm performance in downtown Benson is historic in its own right featuring numerous nationally-known Saddle Creek Records bands including some that have not played - [Voices from Fremont](https://neappleseed.org/1991) - Over the last two years, tensions have been building in the community of Fremont as the city has considered and now passed an ordinance that seeks to prevent undocumented immigrants from renting and working. These ordinances have been attempted in a handful of small communities across the country and have been struck down in the - [Making Back to School Easier for Teen Parents](https://neappleseed.org/2002) - The calendar has clicked over to August. The scramble to soak up the last days of summer and begin preparing for going back to school begins. At Nebraska Appleseed, our Low Income Economic Opportunity Program is also thinking about school for low-income families. Nebraska Appleseed has long recognized that education is one of the surest - [Desaparecidos, Bright Eyes, Cursive, Lullaby for the Working Class & more, Concert for Equality, Omaha, July 31, 2010](https://neappleseed.org/2038) - Reblogged from Losanjealous - Written by Lindsey Shortly after getting involved with the Sound Strike to protest SB1070, Conor Oberst, a Nebraska native, announced he’d be putting together a street festival, Concert for Equality, to raise money for Nebraska’s ACLU chapter in order to help fight a similar law that had passed in Fremont, NE. - [Voices from Fremont - Week Two](https://neappleseed.org/2075) - Last Friday, we began this "Voices from Fremont" series to share residents' experiences in the wake of the Fremont vote (see 7/29/10 posting). Their comments show the unfortunate effect the Fremont law has already had on the community, even before it officially goes into effect. Their voices show how such policies can tear a community - [Healthcare.gov Web Portal is Here!](https://neappleseed.org/37231) - Today is an important day for those Nebraskans looking for health care coverage. Today was the launch of a web portal created by the federal Department of Health and Human Services which will help people find health care coverage options in their local areas. The web portal is one of the consumer benefits required by - [Nebraska Supreme Court Rules In Favor Of Low-Income Parents Dropped from Medicaid](https://neappleseed.org/37232) - Last week Appleseed won a lawsuit in the Nebraska Supreme Court which restored Medicaid benefits to hundreds of low-income parents unlawfully dropped from the program by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In the suit, Davio v. HHS, 280 Neb 263 (2010), class members challenged HHS' policy of terminating a person's Medicaid - [Immigration, Fear, Reason](https://neappleseed.org/37233) - The writer is semi-retired and an adjunct associate professor in the School of Natural Resources, at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is a member of the Lincoln Downtown Rotary Club and sits on several civic and public service boards including Nebraska Appleseed. First published as an OpEd in the Omaha World Herald, August 9, 2010. - [Lincoln Screening of 9500 Liberty - Friday 8/13](https://neappleseed.org/2171) - Friday, August 13 7:00 pm Westminster Church 2110 Sheridan Blvd, Lincoln Film Screening and Community Conversation with the Director of 9500 Liberty, Panelists + Live Music! The Unitarian Church Social Justice Committee (formerly Social Action) recommends this film as a part of our learning and building understanding for the Standing on the Side of Love - [Voices from Fremont - Week Three](https://neappleseed.org/2173) - This is the third week of "Voices from Fremont," a series sharing the experiences of Fremont-area residents since their city became the most recent in a handful of towns across the country to pass a city ordinance that attempts to regulate immigration at the local level. In this third week, we will let the voices - [A Law Clerk's View of Public Interest Work](https://neappleseed.org/2194) - Ever since I decided to go to law school I have been interested in public interest law. So, when I began searching for a job to keep me busy between my 1L and 2L years of law school, I was excited to come across Nebraska Appleseed. While I wanted to work in an area of - [A Voice for the Needy](https://neappleseed.org/2405) - I came to Nebraska Appleseed knowing that many of the policies I would advocate would be under attack. I was right, and the common complaints were all present. If a benefits program wasn't too expensive, it was creating incentives for illegal activity. It is easy for groups to attract support simply by shouting others down, - [The Other Side of Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37234) - johnc@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs The Center for Rural Affairs was established in 1973 as an unaffiliated nonprofit corporation under IRS code 501(c)3. The Center for Rural Affairs was formed by rural Nebraskans concerned about family farms and rural communities, and we work to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities. I'm - [Concert for Equality](https://neappleseed.org/37235) - Concert For Equality from Producciones Cimarrón on Vimeo. On Saturday July 31st, 2010 in Omaha, NE, several bands including Bright Eyes, Cursive, Desaparecidos (their first live performance since 2002), and Lullaby For The Working Class gathered together to fight for equality by playing a benefit show for the ACLU Nebraska. All proceeds from the concerts - [Johanns Wrong to Defund Vital Public Health Fund](https://neappleseed.org/37238) - Re-printed by permission of the writer, of Omaha, who is director of government relations for Nebraska at the American Cancer Society. First published as an OpEd in the Omaha World-Herald August 25, 2010. While undertaking a laudable effort to address the concerns of small businesses, U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns has jeopardized one of the key - [Small Nebraska Town May Raise Taxes To Defend Immigration Law](https://neappleseed.org/37239) - Re-blogged from The Wonk Room @ Think Progress Written by Andrea Nill The Omaha World Herald reports that the Fremont City Council will consider a 2011 budget that includes property tax hikes to help pay for the defense of the city's recently voter-approved anti-immigrant law which imposes a ban on hiring or renting property to - [Appleseed Receives OSHA Grant for Meatpackers' Health & Safety](https://neappleseed.org/2487) - On Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed received an $85,000 renewable Susan Harwood Capacity Building grant from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to support our meatpacking worker health and safety work. Appleseed is one of 45 nonprofits, community organizations, labor, and educational institutions receiving grants. The Susan Harwood grants support training programs that educate workers and employers in industries with high injury and fatality rates; low literacy, young, limited English proficiency and otherwise vulnerable workers; and small business employers. They fund long-term programs that build safety and health competency within organizations. - [Nebraskans Should be Outraged](https://neappleseed.org/2620) - Re-printed by permission of the writer, of Lincoln, who is a retired attorney and Nebraska Appleseed board member. First published as an OpEd in the Lincoln Journal-Star September 19, 2010. Articles in both major Nebraska newspapers on Sept. 9, 2010, quoted testimony given at the hearing of the Nebraska Advisory Committee of the U.S. Commission - [Gaps in Children's Behavioral Health System on Collision Course with Fragile Child Welfare Reform](https://neappleseed.org/2647) - On September 22, the Legislature's Children's Behavioral Health Oversight Committee held a hearing and listened to testimony from parents of children with unmet behavioral health needs. The stories were heartbreaking. Many told of the support they received from peer mentors. However, several of the family organizations that provide this service testified that they may have - [Loss of Third Child Welfare Lead Agency Demands State Reconsider Reform](https://neappleseed.org/2659) - On September 30th, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that Boys and Girls Home and HHS have mutually agreed to terminate their contract with the state as one of three remaining lead agencies in the child welfare reform. Boys and Girls Home had the contract for the entire central, northern and - [Court Strikes Down City Anti-Immigrant Law](https://neappleseed.org/37241) - A federal appeals court has blocked Hazleton, Pennsylvania's anti-immigration ordinance, which is very similar to the one in Fremont. Both ordinances were drafted and are being defended by the same attorney, Kris Kobach, who is Of Counsel to the Immigration Reform Law Institute, the legal arm of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, which has - [Do I Look Illegal?](https://neappleseed.org/37242) - This new PSA from NCLR was produced in response the Arizona's SB 1070, which makes Latinos suspect in their own communities and potential victims of racial profiling. To join NCLR's Boycott Intolerance campaign against SB 1070, text BOYCOTT or BOICOT for messages in Spanish to 62571. - [Hunger Action Month](https://neappleseed.org/37243) - September is Hunger Action Month and the momentum is building to address childhood hunger in Nebraska and Nationwide. Our vision of assuring that all kids have the food they need to grow, learn, and succeed is within reach. As a nation, we are turning our eyes towards the goal of ending childhood hunger by 2015. - [Nebraska Civic Leaders Join Hundreds in DC for Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37244) - On September 15th, Nebraska civic leaders joined hundreds in Washington, D.C. today to point the way forward for common-sense and humane immigration reform. The national day of action "RELIEF, REFORM, RESPECT: Civic Leaders Stand for Immigrant Families" brought hundreds of civic leaders and people of faith to the Capitol. A delegation of four Nebraska leaders - [Nebraska Poverty Rates Better than Nation but Nebraska Families with Children Still Struggle](https://neappleseed.org/37245) - In spite of poverty rates that show Nebraska faring better than the rest of the nation, data show thousands more Nebraskans are low-income, according to a report released by the U.S. Census Bureau, "Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2009". One in ten Nebraskans (9.9%) faced poverty in 2009. This is - [ACT NOW To Pass the DREAM Act!](https://neappleseed.org/37246) - Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has announced that he will bring the DREAM Act (S. 729) up for a vote as an amendment to the Department of Defense authorization bill. A vote could come as early as Tuesday. With your help, the DREAM Act will be considered and pass in the Senate. Please take - [A New Month, A Small Reminder](https://neappleseed.org/37247) - It's a new month: October. Fall is officially here bringing with it crisp cool weather and Halloween. But for many Nebraska families, the turn of the calendar page means much more. Public benefits programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps) and Aid to Dependent Children (cash welfare) "kick in" at midnight - ["Next steps" in Child Welfare Reform - But Is This the Right Direction?](https://neappleseed.org/2772) - On Friday afternoon, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced its next steps in the child welfare reform in a press release. These next steps include transferring additional case management responsibilities from the state to the remaining private agencies. This has and will mean layoffs of a number of state caseworkers. Yet - [Smart Choices in Hard Times](https://neappleseed.org/2813) - Best practices for addressing state budget shortfalls have been identified by a group of ten nonprofit organizations today in a report entitled "Smart Choices in Hard Times: Best Practices for State Budgets." "When budgets are tight, families are counting on smart budget choices that protect what matters most. We have to look at the budget - [Filling the Skills Gap in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/2823) - In 44% of low-income Nebraska families, neither parent has any post-secondary education. In 2018, 66% of jobs in Nebraska will require post-secondary education. There is a skills gap in our state: too many folks lack high school and post-secondary credentials, and too many jobs require them. This is a problem for workers now, and for - [Jobs Jobs Jobs](https://neappleseed.org/3214) - Jobs: they're what's on everyone's mind as we work to build economic recovery. What job opportunities are available in Nebraska? What jobs are "good jobs"? What jobs have growth potential? What jobs pay wages that support families? Our "Nebraska Appleseed's Top Jobs for Families in 2010: Jobs that Contribute to Economic Recovery and Family Success" - [A Win for Kids](https://neappleseed.org/3331) - This week, the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 was signed into law. The bill is a win for children's health and well-being in Nebraska and nationwide. Watching the bill become a law in a signing ceremony that was (appropriately) held at Harriet Tubman Elementary School, I was proud of the work that Nebraskans - [A DREAM Denied](https://neappleseed.org/3334) - Despite majority support for the DREAM Act in the House, the Senate, and the American public, Nebraska's Congressional delegation, to a member, voted against the bill, which was procedurally blocked from moving forward by a filibuster in the Senate on Saturday. The DREAM Act would allow students who were brought to this country at a - [Injection of Funds into Faltering Child Welfare Privatization Raises Questions](https://neappleseed.org/3349) - Yesterday, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced, on the first day of the legislative session which is largely overshadowed by the projected budget deficit, that they “found” $19 million to inject into the state’s faltering child welfare reform effort. Nebraska Appleseed has said from the beginning that the reform is underfunded - [What it Really Means to “Make Ends Meet” in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/3357) - $16.39 per hour. That’s what it takes to “make ends meet” for a single parent with a preschooler in Omaha. It’s $15.38 in Lincoln, and $11.66 in Scottsbluff. These numbers are just a few examples of the wages needed by families in Nebraska based on the newly released “Self-Sufficiency Standard for Nebraska 2010” released by - [Prison Economics Help Drive Arizona Immigration Law](https://neappleseed.org/37248) - A disturbing story on NPR this morning describes a "quiet, behind-the-scenes effort to help draft and pass Arizona Senate Bill 1070 by an industry that stands to benefit from it: the private prison industry." Prison Economics Help Drive Arizona Immigration Law: The investigation uncovers how the AZ law was born in a hotel room with - [Appleseed & Hundreds of Advocates Urge Real Evaluation, Transparency & Oversight in Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/37249) - On Wednesday, Nebraska Appleseed and some of our partners organized a press briefing and roundtable discussion of child advocates regarding the current reform of the child welfare system. We also released a letter signed by over 800 individuals and organizations calling on the Governor and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to - [Helping Small Businesses](https://neappleseed.org/37250) - There was more proof last week that the health reform law is helping just as it was intended. One of the goals of the health care law was to provide tax credits to small businesses to help ease the burden of health care costs. It's working. According to a new survey, the number of small - [Free Screenings of Film About Arizona-style Law](https://neappleseed.org/37251) - "9500 Liberty" screenings warn Nebraskans about economic, social pitfalls of Arizona copycat law Student groups at the Kearney, Lincoln, and Omaha campuses of the University of Nebraska will host a free screening of the award-winning documentary 9500 LIBERTY on Thursday, December 2 at 7pm. The film chronicles the rise and fall of a Virginia county law that - [FAIR-y Tales: Ugly Roots of the Arizona Law](https://neappleseed.org/37252) - Here's a great article about the white-nationalist roots and fuzzy math of the national organization promoting Arizona's SB 1070 anti-immigration law, Fremont's ordinance, proposals to change the 14th Amendment, and other bills. http://www.villagevoice.com/2010-12-01/news/fairy-y-tales/ - [Opportunity: Points of View](https://neappleseed.org/3381) - A small business of her own. A chance to coach sports. A college degree. These are just a few of the American Dreams of Nebraskans profiled in “Opportunity: Points of View” a new photography exhibit supported by Nebraska Appleseed. The exhibit reflects the stories of hardworking Nebraskans who have overcome life obstacles, ranging from a - [Police Chief William Bratton Describes the Dangers of an Arizona-style Law for Community Safety](https://neappleseed.org/3425) - In today's Omaha World Herald, former Los Angeles police chief and former New York City police commissioner William Bratton outlines the perils of requiring local police to serve as immigration agents: "Keeping America’s neighborhoods safe requires our police forces to have the trust and help of everyone in our communities. My nearly 40 years in - [Refusing to Play Politics with Nebraskans' Health](https://neappleseed.org/3480) - Senate Republicans on Wednesday were unsuccessful in their attempt to repeal the recently enacted Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The repeal measure failed to receive the 60 votes it needed to pass, ultimately being defeated, 51 to 47. Repealing health reform – and its vital consumer protections – would have a devastating effect on - [Statement on Immigration by Catholic Archbishop](https://neappleseed.org/37253) - Archbishop Lucas and the Omaha Archdiocese have released a statement saying that "immigration is of extreme interest and concern to Nebraskans and the Catholic Church" and calling for "civility, respectfulness, and common decency" in the statewide discussion. The statement provides a number of useful teaching resources, saying that "the task of welcoming immigrants, refugees, and - [Omaha Senator Offers Alternative to Arizona-style Bill](https://neappleseed.org/37254) - Omaha Sen. Brenda Council today introduced a common-sense alternative to an Arizona-style bill -- a resolution for immigration reform "modeled after the Utah Compact, a statement of principles developed by a broad coalition of Utah politicians, businesses, civic groups, law enforcement and religious leaders" (Lincoln Journal Star 1/18/11). "It's very powerful," said Judiciary Chairman Brad - [Nebraskans Will Lose If Health Reform Is Repealed](https://neappleseed.org/37255) - Nebraskans will lose if efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act succeed. Today the House of Representatives will hold a vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Yet, the vote takes place at a time when less than 25% of people support total repeal and majority want to leave the law as is or do - [Nebraska Police Chief Describes Problems with Arizona-Style Bill](https://neappleseed.org/37256) - Since Arizona passed its divisive and unconstitutional immigration law last April, many top law enforcement officials have raised serious concerns about the approach. Police officials have argued that such laws are an unfunded mandate on local police, reduce officers, undermine community policing, and force local departments to allocate more officers to processing immigration status for - [Nebraskans Oppose an Arizona-Style Law, Support Common-Sense Federal Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37257) - Nearly 500 Nebraskans came to the state Capitol on Thursday, 01/27/2011, to say that Nebraska values do not support an Arizona-style law in this state. Participants and speakers from around the state, representing the League of Nebraska Municipalities, the Methodist Bishop, Catholics, Lutherans, Presbyterians, United Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ, other faith groups, veterans, - [Legislative Oversight of Child Welfare Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37258) - On Friday, January 28, 2011, the Legislature’s Heath and Human Services (HHS) Committee held a hearing on LR 37, a legislative resolution that would designate the HHS Committee to review, investigate, and assess the state’s faltering reform of the child welfare system. Nebraska Appleseed, Voices for Children, and many other partners held this press briefing - [Voices for Children’s Kids Count Report Illuminates Children’s Behavioral Health Needs](https://neappleseed.org/37259) - Last week, Voices for Children in Nebraska released their 2010 Kids Count in Nebraska report. This valuable report tracks the status of children in Nebraska using the best available data across several key indicators including educational, social, economic and physical well-being. This year’s Kids Count report includes a special feature on Children’s Behavioral Health in - [A Personal Reflection on Nebraska’s In-State Tuition Law](https://neappleseed.org/37260) - Alex Gibilisco is a Junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an intern this semester at Nebraska Appleseed. Alex immigrated with his family to the United States from Guatemala at the age of 10. Alex submitted the following testimony to the Legislature’s Education Committee Monday, February 7 in opposition to LB 657, which would repeal - [Smart Choices, Silver Linings](https://neappleseed.org/37261) - In good times and in bad, families and communities remain priorities for Nebraska. The economic downturn has had an impact on state budgets and on family budgets, and our state leaders are facing difficult choices in the 2011 legislative session. In spite of this challenge, several bills that are positive for families are gaining momentum. - [Committee Protects Nebraska's In-state Tuition Education Policy](https://neappleseed.org/3556) - The Lincoln Journal Star today reported that the Legislature's Education Committee voted down a bill that sought to repeal Nebraska's in-state tuition law. Dozens of educational, community, faith, and legal institutions testified in support of protecting Nebraska's in-state tuition policy at the committee hearing on February 7. Some of the testifiers included the University of Nebraska, - [Proposed Legislative Moratorium on Child Welfare Privatization](https://neappleseed.org/3820) - On Tuesday, the HHS Committee voted 7-0 to advance LB 95, a bill to require accreditation of lead contractors, with an amendment calling for a moratorium on returning to privatization in the central, northern and western service areas of the state until June 2012. Essentially, this would prevent the state from contracting with a new - [History Is Repeating Itself: Can You Tell the Difference?](https://neappleseed.org/3849) - Happy St. Patrick’s Day! They say today everyone is a little bit Irish. It wasn’t always like that, though. When the Irish first came to America they were met with persecution, ignorance and fear. They were denied jobs, accused of lawlessness and of destroying the United States. Immigration became a rallying point for the Know-Nothings, - [Health Reform Helping Small Businesses](https://neappleseed.org/3865) - One year ago on Wednesday, President Obama signed into law a historic package of health reforms that has already begun to improve the state of health care in Nebraska and all over the United States. In honor of this momentous achievement, we will be blogging on some of the most notable aspects of the Patient - [Affordable Care Act – One Year Later](https://neappleseed.org/3884) - Co-Authored by George Lyford Today marks the one-year anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). In that year, we have already seen thousands of Nebraskans begin to benefit from some of the reform measures that went into place last September. FamiliesUSA recently released some new data on how the ACA is already - [Good News for Nebraska Women](https://neappleseed.org/3896) - Lately it has seemed that we have gone down a surprising road in Nebraska where pregnant women and babies are fair game in the political arena. The heartbreaking decision by the state to terminate prenatal care for unborn children is having devastating consequences across the state. Doctors, nurses, and health clinics have repeatedly testified since - [Appleseed Testimony Opposing LB 48](https://neappleseed.org/37262) - March 2, 2011 Senator Brad Ashford Chairman, Judiciary Committee Room 1103, State Capitol Lincoln, Nebraska 68509 RE: Opposition to LB 48 Dear Chairman Ashford and Committee Members, My name is Norman Pflanz and I am a staff attorney with Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest. We are a non-partisan, non-profit, public interest law project - [Supreme Court to Decide Rights of Siblings in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/37263) - Yesterday, the Nebraska Supreme Court heard arguments in a case involving whether to place a child in foster care in Nebraska with her siblings in Minnesota. Appleseed filed an amicus curiae ("friend of the court") brief in this case because we think it has the potential to set an important precedent regarding the right of - [Half-A-World-Away: My Dream of Living and Working in Africa has Arrived!](https://neappleseed.org/37264) - At Nebraska Appleseed, we pride ourselves in our robust internship and clerkship program. When our former interns and clerks check in with us to let us know what they are doing, we like to share their amazing stories. Our latest comes from Katie Hile, who interned with Nebraska Appleseed in 2006-2007. Loving every moment of - [Nebraska Says No to Arizona-Style Law](https://neappleseed.org/37265) - On Wednesday, the Nebraska Legislature’s Judiciary Committee announced that it will not advance an Arizona-style bill or other unworkable state-level proposals to regulate immigration. (Other state-level immigration proposals before the committee included LB 569, a bill to require E-Verify for all Nebraska employers, and LR 28, a resolution to encourage all Nebraska law enforcement to enroll in - [Happy Birthday to Nebraska Appleseed!](https://neappleseed.org/37266) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed celebrates its 15-year anniversary! Fifteen years ago, our founders incorporated Nebraska Appleseed with the mission that, like Johnny Appleseed, we would "sow the seeds of justice" across the Great Plains - advocating fairness, opportunity, and equal justice for all people. These core values continue to drive our staff, interns, volunteers and supporters - [The Founding Fathers, the Constitution, and Health Care Reform](https://neappleseed.org/37267) - It’s not every day we get to talk about the Founding Fathers in our work at the Legislature. But, yesterday we had a rare opportunity to do just that as the Judiciary Committee held a hearing on LB 515, a bill that would attempt to nullify the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the ACA) - [Helping Seniors Manage Their Health](https://neappleseed.org/37268) - There are encouraging new statistics out today showing how provisions of the Affordable Care Act are helping Nebraska seniors access the medications they need. AARP released this statement late today: AARP: New Report Shows Progress of Health Care Law for Nebraskans in Medicare’s “Doughnut Hole” LINCOLN--New data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human - [Green Lights](https://neappleseed.org/3900) - At the capitol, in the legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. Yesterday, those lights turned green in overwhelming favor of LB 543, legislation to address hunger in our state. The bill passed - [Prioritizing Families in Nebraska’s State Budget](https://neappleseed.org/4085) - There are incredible children in my life. My little friends draw me pictures of reindeer and teach me how to do pirouettes. They remind me about what really matters – things like friends, family, good teachers, and afterschool snacks. The kids in my life don’t know what an appropriation is or what the term revenue - [Enforcing Court Orders in the Best Interests of Children](https://neappleseed.org/4103) - Yesterday, the Nebraska Supreme Court heard arguments in an appeal of a juvenile court’s order holding HHS in contempt for failure to provide counseling services as ordered for a child in an out-of-home placement. In this case, HHS also questioned the authority of juvenile courts to hold HHS responsible for payments by HHS’s lead contractor - [State Fostering Connections Bill Advances](https://neappleseed.org/4107) - Yesterday, the Legislature voted 40-0 to give first round approval to LB 177, a bill that would place key provisions of the federal Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act into state statute. This bill would strengthen the enforcement and local implementation of requirements to prioritize placement of children in foster care with their - [Appleseed Intern Reflects on Organizing Training](https://neappleseed.org/4116) - Last month, Nebraska Appleseed sent Rachel Gehringer-Wiar, Appleseed's organizing intern, to Chicago during spring break to attend the Midwest Academy's Organizing for Social Change training. The Academy provides training and consulting to equip organizers, community leaders, and organizations to think and to act strategically and to win justice for all. Rachel shared with us her - [“Opportunity: Points of View” Exhibit Now On-Line!](https://neappleseed.org/4123) - Opportunity is a value that is deeply woven into American culture. Opportunities to get an education, to earn a living, and to make a life for your self and your family are essential to developing “The American Dream” in our nation and in our state. It’s what the Low Income Economic Opportunity Program is all - [Moratorium Agreement Reached in Child Welfare Reform, But Oversight Legislation Delayed](https://neappleseed.org/4128) - Yesterday, following a letter from the Governor agreeing to hold off on contracting with a new lead agency to provide child welfare services in the rural areas of the state until June 2012, the Legislature voted to delay consideration of LB 95. (As a reminder, LB 95 would have placed the moratorium the Governor promised - [Legislative Bill 465 and Lawful Permanent Residents](https://neappleseed.org/4133) - In April 2011, the Legislature passed LB 465. This new law changes eligibility for some public benefit programs for certain lawful permanent residents. A lawful permanent resident (LPR) is an immigrant with a green card, who is legally admitted to the U.S. to live and work on a permanent basis. Below is a Q&A to - [State Fostering Connections Bill Passes Legislature!](https://neappleseed.org/4151) - On Thursday, the Nebraska Legislature passed LB 177 on a vote of 47-0-2. LB 177 places key provisions of the federal Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act (“Fostering Connections Act”) into state statute. Specifically, LB 177 provides increased oversight and strengthens local implementation of provisions to prioritize placement of foster children with their - [Health Reform Protects the “Young Invincibles”](https://neappleseed.org/37269) - Today’s blog post focuses on how young adults benefit from reforms in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), which was signed into law one year ago this week. As of September 2010, the ACA required all health plans that provide dependent coverage for children to allow parents to keep their adult children who - [Maintaining a Family's Health and Stability](https://neappleseed.org/37270) - At Appleseed we have long worked on programs that help people work. Often called "work supports," these are the things in our lives that make it possible for us to go to work and maintain our jobs. One clear example is child care. Having a safe place for our children to go while we work - [Nebraska Supreme Court Declines Opportunity to Strengthen Rights of Siblings in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/4242) - On Friday, the Nebraska Supreme Court issued a decision that, unfortunately, limits who can raise the issue of a child’s right to grow up with their siblings when a child has been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect. The decision, which dismissed an appeal of siblings challenging a juvenile court’s denial of - [Voices from Fremont: A Civil Rights Project by Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/voicesfromfremont) - Nebraska Appleseed is proud to unveil a new art exhibit "Voices from Fremont." The exhibit shares the stories of Fremont residents who have witnessed a growing sense of division, hostility, and suspicion in their community since the city passed a restrictive immigration ordinance in 2010. Special thanks to designer Justin Kemmerling for his hard work - [More Diplomas](https://neappleseed.org/4303) - I remember the feeling of satisfaction I had when I hammered a nail into the wall of my first “real” office and hung up my diploma – a feeling of satisfaction and pride. A feeling that my hard work had finally materialized into something concrete that I could hang on a wall. Across the state, - [Save the Date – September 22, 2011](https://neappleseed.org/4307) - Join us on September 22, 2011 for Nebraska Appleseed’s 15th anniversary event, the Good Apple Awards, and celebrate Appleseed's fifteen years of sowing the seeds of justice across the Great Plains. At the Good Apple Awards we will recognize outstanding Nebraskans’ contributions to equal justice and full opportunity for all and celebrate the stories of people’s lives positively - [Voices from Fremont Debuts to More Than 300 People](https://neappleseed.org/4311) - Last Friday, more than 300 people visited a first-look unveiling of the Voices from Fremont art exhibit at The Leekers’ studio at Parrish Studios. The one-night unveiling took place during Lincoln’s monthly First Friday gallery walk. The exhibit highlights Fremont residents’ thoughts and experiences, showing how a local immigration enforcement proposal can devastate a community. - [Advocates Advance Principles for an Effective, High Quality Health Insurance Exchange in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/4319) - As Nebraska gears up for planning and creating a health insurance exchange as required by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), nine Nebraska advocacy organizations representing consumer interests put forward a set of principles designed to help guide the conversation that will take place among legislators and state officials in the coming months. - [Additional Child Welfare Funding and Restructuring Raises Additional Questions](https://neappleseed.org/4330) - On Friday, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services announced that the state will be providing an additional $5.5 million in the current fiscal year ending June 30, 2011 and an additional $7.4 million in the next fiscal year starting July 1, 2011 to the state’s faltering child welfare privatization effort. Also on Friday, - [The Federal Budget Debate: Nebraska Appleseed's Perspective](https://neappleseed.org/4337) - Important discussions have been happening this summer as members of Congress debate how to balance the federal budget and address the national deficit. Many of the deficit reduction proposals would severely affect Nebraska’s most vulnerable populations and have a negative impact on our state's economy. Several proposals being considered would reduce the deficit by implementing - [An Undocumented Immigrant's Story](https://neappleseed.org/4359) - In this powerful story in the The New York Times Magazine, a journalist discusses his life as an undocumented immigrant. His experience shows the talents our country stands to lose by delaying reform of our outdated immigration system. He also describes “a sort of 21st-century underground railroad of supporters, people who took an interest in - [New Academic Research Shows Medicaid Good for Nebraskans and People Generally](https://neappleseed.org/4382) - Economists at Harvard and MIT recently examined the question of whether the expansion of Medicaid coverage under new health reform laws will translate into medical care that people need. The outcome? The results were encouraging, providing evidence that Medicaid does indeed make a very positive impact on the lives of recipients. Medicaid, a federal-state program - [Report Examines How Health Reform is Helping Young, Rural Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/4386) - Our good friends at the Center for Rural Affairs released a report this week that examines how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will revive and sustain small towns, farms and ranches. As Nebraska gears up for implementing the final crucial pieces of the ACA, this report provides valuable information concerning Nebraska's unique urban-rural makeup. The - [Organizations Urge a Balanced, Values Based Approach in Federal Budget Negotiations](https://neappleseed.org/4404) - Nebraska Appleseed joined organizations from across the state Tuesday to urge the President and Nebraska’s federal representatives in Washington to develop a budget that reflects Nebraska values. In a Statement of Principles, Nebraska organizations called on the President and Congress to address the federal deficit while also protecting vulnerable Americans and economic security. It is - [Public Assistance Programs DO Matter for Kids and Families](https://neappleseed.org/4407) - We all know that a lower income means more struggles for families. Families with greater economic resources are not only able to better provide important inputs into their children’s development such as nutritious meals, safe neighborhoods, and higher-quality educations, but higher incomes have also been shown to improve parent’s psychological well-being and parental interactions with - [Kids Can’t Wait](https://neappleseed.org/4424) - Recently, state officials and national experts have commented that privatization can take a number of years to see results. But, as Appleseed and other advocates have said – and this cartoon in Tuesday’s Omaha World Herald points out: children in the system don’t have years to wait. Over the past year and a half since - [Advocates Advance Principles for Governance & Oversight within a Nebraska Health Insurance Exchange](https://neappleseed.org/4543) - As a follow-up to a report released in early June, eight Nebraska advocacy organizations representing consumer interests put forward a set of principles concerning governance and oversight within a Nebraska health insurance exchange. These principles are designed to help guide the conversation that will take place among legislators and state officials in the coming months.The - [Celebrating Nebraska’s Unsung Grassroots Heroes](https://neappleseed.org/4553) - Earlier this spring, a number of us at Appleseed got to talking about how fortunate we’ve been these past fifteen years to work alongside so many great community volunteers who push for a more just and equitable Nebraska. Many of our best community education and legislative efforts have succeeded in concert with grassroots volunteers all - [Janet Goodman-Banks to Receive the Roots of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/4558) - Nebraska Appleseed is excited to announce that Pastor Janet Goodman-Banks of Lincoln will receive the inaugural Roots of Justice Award. Janet, a nurse and former coal miner, has been one of Appleseed’s strongest community allies in the historic push for comprehensive health reform. Janet’s story of being diagnosed with stage II breast cancer and struggling - [A Little Perspective on Challenges to Health Care Reform](https://neappleseed.org/4563) - Our friends at Families USA have been fighting for quality, affordable health care for consumers for a long time. They understand how long the road was to the Affordable Care Act. More importantly, they have years of experience and the perspective to understand that court rulings like the one from the 11th Circuit on August - [Tony & Janina's American Wedding: FREE Screening](https://neappleseed.org/4569) - On Thursday, September 1st, the UNL Progressive Student Coalition is excited to partner with Nebraska Appleseed to host a FREE screening of the film "Tony & Janina's American Wedding." This film, about a Polish immigrant family, is a feature length documentary that gets to the heart of the broken, red tape ridden U.S. immigration system - [It's a SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/4585) - Have you ever wondered about whether or not you or your clients qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps)? Is your organization a Community Based Partner for ACCESS Nebraska, the new on-line public benefits application, and you are looking for tools and resources? If so, Nebraska Appleseed's new Guide to Supplemental - [Border Patrol Agent Turned Immigration Reform Activist](https://neappleseed.org/4650) - Read this honest and powerful testimony from a longtime Border Patrol agent turned immigration reform activist. In his words, "Common sense told me that the vast majority of the people who I caught were good, hard working people. I began to wonder why immigrants had to be chased like animals, and why I was being - [Midwest Organizations Appeal to International Forum Concerning Meatpacking Safety](https://neappleseed.org/4663) - The Midwest Coalition for Human Rights and Nebraska Appleseed have submitted a petition to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) requesting an October hearing to address serious human rights violations in meatpacking and poultry processing plants across the U.S. The IACHR is a permanent body mandated by the Organization of American States that promotes - [Building Nebraska’s Future: The D. Milo Mumgaard Young Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/4675) - In 1996, Nebraska Appleseed’s founder Milo Mumgaard developed a vision for a public interest law firm that could take on the toughest issues facing low-income and marginalized Nebraskans. He started small with a one person operation run out of his basement and through hard work, dedication and skill, grew the organization to twelve staff in - [Fighting for the Common Good: John Cavanaugh](https://neappleseed.org/4686) - It has become cliche to talk about the children as our future. It is more likely to conjure up a 1980s ballad rather than the obvious truism that underlies the statement. But John Cavanaugh and Building Bright Futures (BBF) have recognized the basic truth that if we create or leave in place barriers to a - [Creators of Strong, Vibrant Communities: Karen X. Gómez & Maria Dávila](https://neappleseed.org/4697) - Nebraska Appleseed is honored to announce that Karen X. Gómez & Maria Dávila of Columbus, Nebraska, will be one of the inaugural recipients of the Roots of Justice Award. Karen and Maria truly embody the vision of this award. Unsung grassroots heroes, these two are quietly working to build important nonprofit infrastructure in rural Nebraska and to do - [Enough Is Enough](https://neappleseed.org/4703) - Last week, the State Auditor released a report on the child welfare privatization, which detailed, among other things, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ gross mismanagement and lack of oversight of valuable taxpayer dollars intended for the state’s most vulnerable children. Appleseed is deeply troubled by the severity of the information in the - [Yet Another Health Care Challenge Rejected](https://neappleseed.org/4711) - On Thursday, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed two constitutional challenges to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), finding that both plaintiffs lacked the requisite standing to challenge the law. Out of the other four other circuits have that have ruled on ACA challenges, only one other (the 11th Circuit) has decided (in a 2-1 - [A Law Clerk's View: Medicaid & the Federal Budget Process](https://neappleseed.org/4725) - My time working as a summer law clerk at Nebraska Appleseed flew by. I was excited to work for an organization motivated by the values of justice and opportunity. By the end of the summer, I had a deeper understanding of both the challenges advocates face when addressing systematic inequality, as well as the creative - [A Law Clerk's View: Immersed in the Law](https://neappleseed.org/4742) - “Immersed in the law Help Nebraskans help others Clerk at Appleseed” When I realized at orientation that we law clerks would be introduced to Appleseed staff by haikus each of them had written describing their jobs and their passions, I realized that my summer clerkship would be one unlike I could have ever expected. Ever - [Supreme Court Reinforces Juvenile Court’s Authority to Enforce Orders when HHS Fails to Comply](https://neappleseed.org/4751) - On Friday, the Nebraska Supreme Court issued a decision that strengthens the authority of juvenile courts in Nebraska to hold HHS in contempt when the Department willfully fails to comply with orders designed to serve the best interests of children. The case involved an order by the Cheyenne County Court, sitting as a juvenile court, - [A Law Clerk's View: Tools to Work in a Public Interest Career](https://neappleseed.org/4755) - I started law school knowing that I wanted to go into public interest law, and working at Appleseed has provided me with excellent preparation for a public interest career. I can honestly say that working at Appleseed has been my favorite part of my law school experience. It has been great to be able to - [A Law Clerk's View: Addressing Gaps in Services for Children](https://neappleseed.org/4760) - My time at Nebraska Appleseed has been one of growth. I have taken the skills I learned during my first year of law school and applied them to help address gaps in services for children in the state. I was able to do something that matters and learn about how the law works in the - [Five Facts You Should Know about the U.S. Census Bureau Poverty Data](https://neappleseed.org/4846) - Last week, the U.S. Census Bureau released new data about the economic well-being of our nation and our state. Here are five facts you should know about poverty in Nebraska: More than one in five children (18.2%) in Nebraska experienced poverty in 2010. This is 3% higher than 2009. Minorities in Nebraska experience poverty at - [Step Up for Kids](https://neappleseed.org/4913) - Please join representatives from Nebraska Appleseed, A.S.K., Behaven Kids, Boys Town, Building Bright Futures, KVC, NAMI-Nebraska, NASW-Nebraska Chapter, Nebraska Families Collaborative Nebraska Family Support Network, and Voices for Children in Nebraska for the STEP UP FOR KIDS 2011 event. Tuesday, October 11, 2011 3:00-4:00 p.m. North Steps of the State Capitol Special Guest: Tom Osborne In these - [A Law Clerk's View: Bringing Health Care Reform Home](https://neappleseed.org/4918) - I spent a very enjoyable summer working as a law clerk for Nebraska Appleseed. I have always admired the values this organization holds, yet never completely understood the work they do until I was given the opportunity to be a part of it. I spent the summer working primarily on health care access issues; an - [Step Up for Kids](https://neappleseed.org/4929) - Do the new census figures reflecting that one child in five in Nebraska struggles with poverty worry you? Have you followed recent child welfare system developments with concern? Do you think that access to prenatal care should be available to all who need it to protect the health of mothers and babies? The newspaper headlines - [Health Insurance Exchange Legislation Must Go Forward](https://neappleseed.org/4935) - Reports indicate that Governor Heineman has decided that the state should wait to fully implement a state-based exchange until the United States Supreme Court has ruled on the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It is critical that the state pass enabling legislation during the next legislative session to allow the state - [Breaking – and Heartbreaking – News out of Alabama](https://neappleseed.org/4938) - Here is a powerful story from The New York Times documenting the early effects of Alabama’s shameful law: hundreds of students withdrawing from local schools; stores and restaurants noticeably less busy; people – including people with legal status – who had called Alabama home for 2, 5, 10 years, gone in a matter of days. - [Talking Jobs: The Importance of the Building Nebraska’s Future Workforce Forum](https://neappleseed.org/4966) - I talked with a group of working parents at the Center for People in Need this week. The hot topic there, as in the rest of the nation, was JOBS. The good folks I spoke with talked about daily schedules shuttling kids, trying to study, and working long hours. They talked about the need for - [Build A Stronger Nebraska Together](https://neappleseed.org/4997) - This summer, I met up with Omaha graphic designer Justin Kemerling of The Match Factory to discuss an idea for an Appleseed art exhibit. We’ve worked with Justin on a number of Appleseed projects – most recently our Voices from Fremont poster exhibit chronicling how residents witnessed a sense of division, hostility, and suspicion in Fremont since the town passed a restrictive - [The Myth of Chain Migration](https://neappleseed.org/5016) - Written for and originally Posted at Forbes A common criticism of the U.S. immigration system is it tilts toward family admissions. This criticism rests, in part, on the mistaken notion that any close relations sponsored by U.S. citizens come to America quickly as permanent residents. However the wait times for sponsoring a close family member - [Near Miss for Nebraska’s Hungry Families](https://neappleseed.org/5051) - Last night the Senate considered taking action that would limit states’ flexibility in serving struggling families during difficult times and would cut food assistance to 19,000 Nebraska families. Thankfully, this bad amendment to the Agriculture Appropriations bill was voted down on a 41-58 vote. The amendment, proposed by Senator Sessions, would have eliminated state flexibility - [Appleseed Presents Results of Survey of Attorneys’ Perceptions of Child Welfare Privatization to Legislative Committee](https://neappleseed.org/5058) - On Tuesday of last week, the Health and Human Services Committee of the Nebraska Legislature continued its investigation of the effects of privatization on the state’s child welfare system through the LR 37 interim study process. As part of the LR 37 process, Nebraska Appleseed conducted a survey of juvenile court attorneys across the state - [NPR Releases a Three-part Investigative Report on the Current State of the Indian Child Welfare Act in Nebraska and South Dakota](https://neappleseed.org/5195) - Last week National Public Radio (NPR) released a three-part, yearlong, investigative report focusing on Native American children in the child welfare systems of South Dakota and Nebraska. Specifically, the piece dealing with Nebraska follows the story of Dwayne Stenstrom who is now a history professor at Sinte Gleska University on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in - [Health Reform Victory Reinforces Need to Continue Implementation](https://neappleseed.org/5203) - On Thursday, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which is the comprehensive health reform law signed into law by President Obama in March 2010. The 2-1 Court of Appeals decision joins dozens of other lawsuits challenging the ACA that have been - [Huskers Fighting Hunger](https://neappleseed.org/5208) - Confronting Food Insecurity in Our Communities Keynote Speaker: Dr. Mariana Chilton, Center for Hunger-Free Communities FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, STUDENTS, STAFF AND FACULTY November 16, 2011 5 PM—7:30 PM Henzlik Hall, Room 124, University of Nebraska-Lincoln city campus Millions of Americans experience hunger and food insecurity on a daily basis. Hunger has long-term - [Supreme Court Takes up Challenge to Health Reform Law](https://neappleseed.org/5212) - As the New York Times reported on Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court announced that it will decide the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in this current term, with a decision probably due by June 2012. The central issue that will be decided by the Court is whether Congress had the authority to create - [Nebraska Appleseed Leads a Community Discussion about the Child Welfare System and Privatization](https://neappleseed.org/5221) - On Wednesday of last week, a community discussion was hosted by the Lancaster County Democratic Party at Gere Library in Lincoln. Nebraska Appleseed’s Sarah Helvey was invited to speak at the event which focused on Nebraska’s child welfare system and the progress of LR 37. LR 37 is an interim study which provides for the - [Thousands Gather for Civil and Human Rights in Alabama](https://neappleseed.org/5229) - Today thousands of Alabamians are gathering to launch the "One Family, One Alabama" campaign to challenge state lawmakers to repeal the nation’s most vicious anti-immigrant law. Members of Congress will hear from people whose lives have been damaged by the law. Local leaders and civil rights leaders from around the country will speak at the historic - [It's That Time of Year...](https://neappleseed.org/5245) - The holidays are a time of year when our thoughts turn to people who are struggling in our communities. It's a time of year when we are not only thinking of the needs of our friends and neighbors, but also of the reasons behind their difficulties, and hoping for a year ahead with new possibilities - [Hearing on Health Insurance Exchanges Show Need to Push Forward](https://neappleseed.org/5251) - Yesterday, the message from consumer advocates, providers, and insurance carriers/producers was clear: we should move forward next legislative session and consider legislation to create a state-based exchange. Several groups, including Nebraska Appleseed, testified in front of the Nebraska Legislature’s Banking, Commerce, and Insurance Committee, along with some members of the Health and Human Services Committee, - [New Report Shows (Again) Alarming Problems in Detention Facilities](https://neappleseed.org/5317) - As America continues to call on Congress to bring our immigration system into the 21st century – with workable solutions that uphold our values and move us forward – a new report released today by two Midwest human rights organizations highlights alarming problems in immigrant detention facilities as well. The report, Not Too Late for Reform, authored by the - [Waiting for Midnight](https://neappleseed.org/5322) - "Waiting for Midnight" has nothing to do with Cinderella. Instead, NBC’s Rock Center recently drew attention to a different kind of “mad dash.” Hungry families across America are waiting for midnight at the first of the month when funds under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) become available. With our - [Busy Weeks in Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/5326) - Last week was a busy one for child welfare advocates and this week promises to be the same with the final LR 37 report scheduled to be released on Thursday. Below is a brief recap: On Monday, December 5th, the Legislature’s Children’s Behavioral Health Oversight and HHS Committees held a hearing on LB 603 regarding - [Legislature’s HHS Committee Releases LR 37 Report and Recommendations on Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/5330) - Yesterday, the HHS Committee of the Legislature released its report as part of LR 37, an interim study investigation of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) child welfare reform and privatization. Among the 18 recommendations were the following: Return case management to the state by July 1, 2012 Create the Nebraska Department - [Thousands March in Alabama](https://neappleseed.org/5356) - Freedom Riders Meet with DREAMers in Dr. Martin Luther King’s Church [thethe-image-slider name="IICP Blog 12/22/2011"] Last weekend, thousands came together in Montgomery, Alabama, to protest that state’s notorious immigration enforcement law. Carrying “One Family, One Alabama” and “Not in My America” signs, Civil Rights leaders from across the country and thousands of Alabamians called for - [Gains Seen on Child Welfare Reform](https://neappleseed.org/5374) - Last month, the Nebraska Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee released its Legislative Resolution 37 report and 18 recommendations that we believe chart a positive new path forward for child welfare reform. In response to the report, a Dec. 18 World-Herald editorial, "State must get this right," rightly noted that needed fixes to the state's - [Appleseed Initiative Part of National Campaign](https://neappleseed.org/5381) - What says “welcome” and “I am glad to know" you more than opening your home to 45 strangers, most from another country? Last evening, in an Omaha house laden with colorful Christmas lights and amid glass snowmen and snow globes, an Omaha family offered their home and hospitality to generations of immigrants from Guatemala so - [The Session of Children](https://neappleseed.org/5390) - Today the Unicameral convenes the first day of the second session of the 102nd Legislature. As the session begins, media reports have quoted a number of state lawmakers as saying that child welfare will be a top priority for this session. Here are some of today’s headlines: “As session begins, child welfare a priority” – - [Statement on KVC Contract Amendment & Additional $1.8 MILLION Infusion](https://neappleseed.org/5397) - Yesterday, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services announced that it entered into another contract amendment with KVC on December 24th to infuse an additional $1.8 million into the state’s failing child welfare privatization effort even as the the Legislature’s HHS Committee had just the week before released recommendations to make significant changes to - [Lobby Day for Voting Rights](https://neappleseed.org/5416) - “I’m here … because I think that voting rights are the basis of our democracy. When I see voting rights come under attack I feel personally attacked and my heart goes out to people this bill will affect,” said Claire Hillan when asked why she gathered with over 70 other Nebraskans at the State Capitol - [It's Time to Build Welcoming Communities](https://neappleseed.org/5423) - Yesterday, the New York Times published a forward-thinking opinion piece that highlights immigrant contributions to the U.S. and - in the context of impending Baby Boomer retirement - underscores the importance of shifting our nation's attitude to a welcoming one. We wanted to share this insightful piece, which also highlights Welcoming America www.welcomingamerica.org -- a national network of locally-led efforts - [Immigrants and the Child Tax Credit by the Numbers](https://neappleseed.org/5471) - Denying the Credit to Some American Children Doesn’t Make Sense By Marshall Fitz , Sarah Jane Glynn of The Center for American Progress As the February deadline for Congress to extend the payroll tax holiday through 2012 approaches, members of Congress continue to come up with inhumane and counterproductive ways to offset the loss of tax revenue. Rather than - [Nebraska Can't Afford LB970's Tax Cuts](https://neappleseed.org/5479) - Yesterday, Nebraska Appleseed's Executive Director Becky Gould testified at the Nebraska Legislature's Revenue Committee in opposition to LB970. The bill would cut state income taxes and corporate taxes in Nebraska. The bill would significantly decrease revenue to the state's general fund and hinder the state's ability to invest in the future - a strong child welfare - [Return Foster Care Case Management to the State](https://neappleseed.org/5493) - Sarah Helvey, Child Welfare Director at Nebraska Appleseed, testified last Thursday at the Unicameral's Health & Human Services Committee in support of LB961. The bill would return foster care case management to the State of Nebraska. Case management is a core government responsibility. While there is a role for private-public partnerships, and for private agencies - [Testimony supporting LB957 to Adopt the Office of Inspector General for the Nebraska Child Welfare Act](https://neappleseed.org/5495) - Senator Kathy Campbell Chair, Health and Human Services Committee Room 1402, State Capitol Lincoln, NE 68509 Chairwoman Campbell and members of the Health and Human Services Committee, On behalf of the Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest, I am here to testify in support of LB 957. We support LB 957 because - [HHS Budget Should Invest in Children and Families](https://neappleseed.org/5510) - On Monday, Nebraska Appleseed's Executive Director testified at the Appropriations Committee in response to the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services' appropriation request. Appleseed believes that DHHS's budget must invest in and protect low-income children and families' needs. [DDET Appleseed Testimony] Senator Lavon Heidemann Chair, Appropriations Committee State Capitol, Room 1004 Lincoln, NE 68509 - [Nebraska Workers' Compensation System Should Help, Not Drive Away, Workers](https://neappleseed.org/5523) - LB 1012 undermines the wise purpose of the Nebraska Workers' Compensation system by tipping the scales against injured employees. Upholding the system is important for all of us. We have a public interest in ensuring that employers maintain safe workplaces. We also have a public interest in preventing the cost of workplace injuries from spilling - [Improve Service Delivery and Efficiency in the Department of Health & Human Services](https://neappleseed.org/5527) - On February 1, the Health and Human Services Committee held a hearing on LB 1041 and LB 1016. Both of these bills are intended to address problems with the ACCESS Nebraska system. Appleseed supports both of these bills. LB 1041 would streamline HHS systems to make them more efficient and effective for everyone. LB 1016 - [Help Children Access the Food They Need to Learn & Grow](https://neappleseed.org/5531) - LB 1090 will help children access the food they need in the summertime to learn and grow. Providing access to healthy, nutritious foods is important for children’s health. The Summer Food Service Program provides federally funded meals to sites at nonprofit organizations, schools, and other locations to reach hungry children in the summer when free - [Appleseed Supports the Creation of a Children's Commission](https://neappleseed.org/5537) - [DDET LB 821 Testimony] Senator Kathy Campbell Chair, Health and Human Services Committee Room 1402, State Capitol Lincoln, NE 68509 Chairwoman Campbell and members of the Health and Human Services Committee, On behalf of the Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest, I am here to testify in support of LB 821. We - [An Opportunity for Investment in the Futures of Youth in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/5557) - Yesterday, the HHS Committee held a hearing on LB 1150, a bill, introduced by Senator McGill with input from Project Everlast youth members, that would extend foster care services on a voluntary basis up to age 21 in Nebraska. For years, adolescents aging out of foster care have struggled with the transition into adulthood. Typical - [Appleseed at the Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/5595) - The 2012 Legislative session is off to a fast and furious start. We are already a third of the way through this short (60 day) session and Nebraska Appleseed is working on more bills than ever before. We’d like to highlight some of the key issues we are working on in our programs and give - [Addressing the Skills Gap and Building Our Future Workforce](https://neappleseed.org/5599) - We fully support LB 1079 and believe it will both build opportunity and effectively leverage resources for positive impact. Improving the education and skills of our current workers is essential to our future workforce competitiveness. Nebraska faces a skills gap in the future and working families are a part of the solution. [DDET LB 1079 - [Ensure Foster Parents Receive the Resources to Meet Children's Basic Needs](https://neappleseed.org/5610) - LB 926 ensures that foster parents in Nebraska will be provided with the resources necessary to meet children’s basic needs. We thank Sen. Dubas and the other co-sponsors for their commitment to improving the child welfare system and ask that you vote to advance LB 926. [DDET LB 926 Testimony] Senator Kathy Campbell Chair, Health - [Address Fiscal Oversight Problems in Nebraska’s Child Welfare System](https://neappleseed.org/5626) - LB 949 would create a separate budget program for appropriations of funds for child welfare in Nebraska. LB 949 would also require regular financial reporting by the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services to the Legislature's HHS and Appropriations Committees. We also strongly support that LB 949 would require that the Department's appropriations request - [Strengthen Transparency, Accountability and Oversight of Nebraska’s Child Welfare System](https://neappleseed.org/5630) - We support LB 1160 because it would establish much needed oversight of what is really happening to children and families in the child welfare system. We fully support that the data collected as part of LB 1160 is targeted to provide accountability in individual cases but also seeks to use the information for ongoing systemic - [A Timely Path to Permanency Requires True System Reform](https://neappleseed.org/5633) - LB 1172 requires the County Attorney to file a petition to terminate parental rights when a child under the age of five is in an out-of-home placement for twelve months. We thank Sen. Pirsch and the judiciary committee for their commitment to increase permanency for younger children in foster care, but believe that reducing case - [LB 1063 Aims to Fill Medicaid Gaps & Help Parents Keep Their Kids](https://neappleseed.org/5658) - The state’s child welfare system is in great need of reform. A vital piece of ensuring reform is effective is to prevent children from entering the system unnecessarily. LB 1063 is intended to address gaps in Medicaid services for children, which needlessly push children into the system to obtain the mental health services they need. Indeed, LB 1063 makes certain - [Legislation Leads to Higher Education for Parents](https://neappleseed.org/5661) - Legislation passed by the Nebraska Unicameral in 2009 is opening the doors to higher education for low-income parents, according to a report released today by the Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest entitled “Choosing Education.” The report indicates that 13.3% of Nebraska’s cash welfare caseload is currently engaged in education that could lead to - [Panel Responds to Youths' Questions about Child Welfare System Privatization](https://neappleseed.org/5695) - Last Wednesday, Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey spoke at a Reform Roundtable event sponsored by Project Everlast. About 35 youth with foster care experience attended to eat pizza, learn about privatization, and get answers from a panel of representatives from DHHS, KVC, NFC, Nebraska Appleseed, and Voices for Children. Questions ranged from how a Title - [A Win-Win for Business Growth and Work Experience](https://neappleseed.org/5703) - Nebraskans have a strong work ethic, and our labor force is one of our most important economic strengths. Nebraska businesses, especially small businesses, rely on our workers to help create economic growth and success. LB 1136 would utilize existing funds to provide employers opportunities to bring on additional employees with time-limited wage subsidies to help - [Ensure Low-Income Parents Can Access Education As a Path Out of Poverty](https://neappleseed.org/5706) - The Aid to Dependent Children program provides critical support to very low-income families and has the goal of helping families achieve economic security as quickly as possible. A key part of the program is that all adults must participate in a work activity for at least 30 hours a week. Currently, parents participating in Nebraska’s - [More Support for Restoration of Prenatal Care](https://neappleseed.org/5715) - There is a great editorial this morning from the Lincoln Journal Star calling for the restoration of prenatal care coverage and the passage of LB 599. The editorial notes the irrefutable moral and fiscal reasons for restoring coverage and, we believe, rightly notes that it is time to debate this issue. It is time that - [Half Way Point at the Legislature & Priorities are Set](https://neappleseed.org/5726) - This is the inaugural edition of Nebraska Appleseed's Legislative Update, our regular look at the Unicameral’s work on issues impacting working families, immigrant Nebraskans and the communities where they live, children in foster care, access to health care, voting rights, and more. We are sending you this edition because you have already subscribed or we hope you - [Join Us for a FREE Screening of abUSed: The Postville Raid](https://neappleseed.org/5739) - Nebraska Appleseed, the NAACP, Lincoln Chapter, the Progressive Student Coalition and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute for Ethnic Studies are sponsoring a free showing of the film abUSed: The Postville Raid at the Mary Riepma Ross Theater located at 313 North 13th Street in Lincoln at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 29th. The free screening will be followed by a - [Fremont Ordinance: Unconstitutional and Unproductive](https://neappleseed.org/5743) - The court's decision Monday to strike down the core of the Fremont immigration enforcement ordinance is no surprise. Every such ordinance with a rental component has been found unconstitutional -- but not before creating great cost, division, and sense of loss in the local community. Even though the Fremont ordinance never went into effect, it - [A Father’s Perspective on Prenatal Care for All](https://neappleseed.org/5764) - My name is Brian Schnieder, and I’m part of the ambassador family for the March of Dimes in Omaha, Nebraska. Seven years ago, my son Jackson was born prior to twenty-five weeks. My wife had a medical condition that was undetected until she was further along in her pregnancy. He was born weighing one pound, - [Saying Hello to New Neighbors & Building Strong, Healthy Communities](https://neappleseed.org/5767) - How can we welcome new neighbors? Over twenty-five young people met last week in Omaha to get to know each other and to talk about just that. They laughed together, ate together and found they have a lot in common. Some of the students were born in Sudan or Ethiopia, others were born in Texas - [Statement on General File Debate on Child Welfare Bills](https://neappleseed.org/5771) - Rebecca L. Gould, Executive Director of the Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest, issued the following statement today in response to the advancement of a package of five bills to reform the state’s child welfare system: “Today and yesterday, the Nebraska Legislature voted to advance a package of five bills designed to - [Nebraskans Increasingly Experiencing Food Hardship](https://neappleseed.org/5778) - Nearly one in five Americans and one in seven Nebraskans had difficulty affording food in the last year according to a report, “Food Hardship in America 2011,” released by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC). “It’s concerning that food hardship continues to increase in our state, as does participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance - [No Tearful Reunions, No Happy Endings](https://neappleseed.org/5783) - “When it was over, we all sat there in silence for a moment, shocked by what we had seen, waiting for the happy ending ” said Rebecca Gonzales. Last Wednesday night, Appleseed, along with the NAACP Lincoln Branch, the Ethnic Studies Department of UNL and the UNL Progressive Student Coalition hosted a free screening of Luis Argueta’s film "AbUSed: The Postville Raid" at the Ross Theater. - [An Opportunity to Pursue Higher Education](https://neappleseed.org/5787) - On Monday, the Nebraska Legislature voted 36-0 to approve LB 842 on general file. The bill will ensure that Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) recipients can continue to pursue an Associates Degree for up to 36 months to meet their work requirements under the program. The policy prior to 2009 only allowed ADC recipients to - [Marching Forward in the Ongoing Struggle for Civil Rights](https://neappleseed.org/5796) - Today, Gabrielle Liwaru, Benito Sanchez, Kevin Lytle and I will be joining thousands of others Americans in the historic Selma to Montgomery Civil Rights March. It commemorates the 1965 voting rights marches which were a key moment in the civil rights movement and led to the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act. But the - [Youth Share Their Experiences and Perspectives with Senators](https://neappleseed.org/5805) - During last week’s first round of debate on the package of child welfare bills, Lincoln Senator Bill Avery noticed the apparent absence of the usual lobbyists in the State Capitol’s rotunda. As noted by Senator Avery, there “are no highly paid lobbyists working on behalf of kids.” While Nebraska Appleseed, Voices for Children, and some - [Educate, Innovate to Compete](https://neappleseed.org/5809) - It's March Madness. If your office is anything like Nebraska Appleseed's, the intense water cooler conversations have begun. Competition can bring out the best in us. It can push us to stretch our boundaries, find new ways to get things done, and do our best. It's time for Nebraska to educate and innovate to compete. - [“Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Us Around”](https://neappleseed.org/5813) - “Ain’t gonna let nobody turn us around” - I woke up with this song in my head Saturday morning. Last week I had the opportunity to take three people to Montgomery to participate in the 47th Selma to Montgomery March. Every year, people gather to commemorate the 1965 Voting Rights Marches and march fifty-seven miles - [Prenatal Care Is a Moral Imperative](https://neappleseed.org/5818) - It is also wise health and fiscal policy, as highlighted by Nebraska faith and health voices in this week's Omaha World Herald. LB 599 would restore Nebraska's longtime policy of ensuring prenatal care for all Nebraska children -- and preventing the high costs of premature birth and low-birthweight health and educational outcomes. - [Kids Crusin’ Kitchen Food Truck Visits Capitol](https://neappleseed.org/5822) - The “Kids Crusin’ Kitchen” mobile summer food truck visited the Nebraska State Capitol today to draw attention to childhood hunger problems and solutions. The truck, operated by the Food Bank for the Heartland, The Salvation Army, and Hunger Free Heartland, serves meals to children in low-income communities during the summer. “One in six children in - [Rally to Protect Your Right To Vote](https://neappleseed.org/5828) - THURSDAY, March 22, 2012 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Douglas County Election Commissioner's Office 225 N. 115th Street & Davenport, Omaha The Douglas County Election Commission has announced it will close almost half of the longtime polling places in Omaha which will have a disproportionate effect on North and South Omaha, the elderly, the disabled, and - [Nebraska Organizations Urged to Sign SNAP Support Letter to Senators Nelson and Johanns](https://neappleseed.org/5841) - Every five years, Congress reauthorizes the Farm Bill, a comprehensive piece of legislation that includes, among other items, SNAP/Food Stamps. This year, the Farm Bill is up for reauthorization. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senators Nelson and Johanns are key players in the Farm Bill reauthorization effort. As Farm Bill deliberations heat - [5 Ways Health Reform Helps Address Disparities](https://neappleseed.org/5845) - This list comes from our friends at The National Health Law Program - securing health rights for those in need. 1. ALREADY IN PLACE: Prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, and disability The ACA extended the nondiscrimination protections of Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act - [Hello world!](https://neappleseed.org/37271) - Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging! - [Two Years Later: The Benefits of Health Reform](https://neappleseed.org/5850) - March 23, 2012, marks the second anniversary of the enactment of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. In response, Rebecca L. Gould, Executive Director of Nebraska Appleseed issued this statement: “The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was an historic step forward in addressing the inequalities and inefficiencies in our health care system. Over - [Happy Birthday, ACA!](https://neappleseed.org/5853) - Two years ago today, President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law, representing a significant step toward health care reform. The purpose of the ACA was to make healthcare accessible and affordable for the millions of Americans without health insurance, and many Nebraskans are already benefitting from the reform measures - [And So It Begins...](https://neappleseed.org/5863) - On Monday, March 26, the United States Supreme Court will begin to hear oral arguments on the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010. This case is one of the most important to be heard in recent memory, and the Supreme Court has set aside an unprecedented amount of time over - [Time, Patience, Justice](https://neappleseed.org/5867) - Here at Nebraska Appleseed, we have heard a lot about ACCESS Nebraska, the new system for managing Health and Human Services programs using on-line applications and call centers instead of caseworkers. We've heard from intake callers, folks who participated in listening sessions this fall, and people who testified at the interim study hearing and bill - [Day 1 (Monday): Should This Case Be Considered Later?](https://neappleseed.org/5874) - Yesterday was the first day of arguments at the Supreme Court on the challenge to the Affordable Care Act. (The transcript and audio recording are available.) Monday’s argument involved the question of whether the Supreme Court could even rule on the case at this point. There is a federal law called the Anti-Injunction Act which says you - [Day 2 (Tuesday): Is the Individual Responsibility Provision Unconstitutional?](https://neappleseed.org/5883) - Our apologies for not getting this post up sooner, but as you can see, it’s been busy around here! As you’ll recall, challengers of the Affordable Care Act are claiming that the federal government does not have the power to require people to purchase health insurance. Today, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on this - [Day 3 (Wednesday): Can the Court Uphold or Strike Down Only Part of the ACA and Is Medicaid Expansion Unconstitutional?](https://neappleseed.org/5889) - Wednesday was the third and final day of arguments at the Supreme Court on the Affordable Care Act. There were two main questions: If the Court were to find the individual responsibility provision (which was the focus of Tuesday’s arguments) unconstitutional, does that mean the entire ACA law must be struck down or does it - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/5892) - There has been a good deal of activity at the Legislature on Appleseed’s priority issues since the last update. Here is a quick summary: “Green Lights” In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name - [Our Courts in Crisis](https://neappleseed.org/5897) - A lecture presented by Federal District Court Judge Joseph Bataillon A discussion on the judicial nominations crisis. Listen to Judge Bataillon's presentation: [powerpress url="http://neappleseed.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/judge_bataillon_0411121.mp3"] Download the audio When: Wednesday, April 11th at 12:10 Where: University of Nebraska College of Law Hamann Auditorium The judicial branch has a significant and wide-ranging impact on the lives of Americans. But roughly - [Political Rhetoric Obscures Rational Dialogue on the Affordable Care Act and Its Benefits for Children](https://neappleseed.org/5910) - Originally posted by our friends at The Juvenile Law Center The historic legal arguments for and against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) have concluded. The future of the ACA now rests in the hands of the United States Supreme Court. Tragically, the legal and political wrangling over the Act's provisions has largely - [Appleseed and Nebraskans for Civic Reform Call for Secretary of State to Investigate Douglas County Election Commission](https://neappleseed.org/5913) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed and Nebraskans for Civic Reform wrote a letter to Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale formally requesting an investigation concerning the practices and procedures of Douglas County Election Commissioner Dave Phipps. Earlier this year, Phipps announced he will eliminate half of Omaha's polling locations in spite of the closings having a disproportionate impact - [Statement on the Passage of Child Welfare Reform Legislation](https://neappleseed.org/5921) - Rebecca L. Gould, Executive Director of the Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest, issued the following statement today in response to the passage of a package of legislation to reform the state’s child welfare system: “Today, the Nebraska Legislature gave final approval to the remainder of the package of five bills designed - [Timeline of Prenatal Care Coverage in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/5924) - The Nebraska Legislature is on the verge of passing LB 599, a bill to restore prenatal care to all low-income children. For decades the State of Nebraska maintained the wise and fiscally smart health policy to provide prenatal health coverage and ensured that all children had a chance at having a healthy start to life. - ["Hunger Hits Home" Documentary Viewing & Summit](https://neappleseed.org/5932) - Hunger Free Heartland Anti-Hunger Summit Join Hunger Free Heartland and partners to talk about what is being done to end childhood hunger here in in the metro area (Douglas, Sarpy and Pottawattamie counties) and across Nebraska. View: "Hunger Hits Home", a new documentary from Share Our Strength. Learn from advocates and local legislators what you can do to affect change and - [JOIN US TODAY, 5pm Vigil to Restore Prenatal Care!](https://neappleseed.org/5937) - VIGIL TO RESTORE PRENATAL CARE TODAY: Wednesday, April 11, 5pm Help ensure that all Nebraska babies have the chance at a healthy start in life. Join us! Wednesday, April 11 5pm-6pm State Capitol, Lincoln (West side of the capitol building - at the statue of Lincoln - 14th Street & Lincoln Mall.) The effort - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/5960) - This was a very good week at the Legislature for children in Nebraska and several of the other issues we have prioritized at Nebraska Appleseed. The bill to restore prenatal care, LB 599, passed its final round vote and was presented to the Governor yesterday. And several of Appleseed’s priority bills became law this week. - [April 17 Film & Discussion: When We Stop Counting](https://neappleseed.org/5978) - Here's a great opportunity to see the powerful local film "When We Stop Counting" with a panel discussion by Nebraska educators. Sponsored by Nebraskans for Peace, First Plymouth Congregational Church, and National Association of Social Workers. Film Screening & Panel Discussion: April 17, 7-9 p. m. "When We Stop Counting": Education, Poverty, and Culture. - [THANK YOU! Prenatal Care Restored!](https://neappleseed.org/5994) - Yesterday was a great day for Nebraska’s children. The Legislature voted 30-16 to override the Governor’s veto of LB 599 and restore Nebraska’s decades-long policy of providing prenatal care and prioritizing the health of Nebraska children. Thank you for calling and emailing throughout this debate. Being engaged in this process truly made a huge difference! We also - [My Experience at Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/6035) - Appleseed is a place full of movers and shakers, and over the course of my internship here, I have been moved and shaken. I am constantly shown that people are changing things. Appleseed is uprooting the distressing and unacceptable life conditions that some consider permanent. But here, we know that nothing is permanent except change. - [Arizona Law: Socially Toxic and Economically Self-Defeating](https://neappleseed.org/6039) - Tomorrow the United States Supreme Court will hear arguments regarding the constitutionality of Arizona’s “show me your papers” law, S.B. 1070, in the case Arizona v. United States. As the Court considers aspects of the law’s legality, it is also important to consider its functionality. Ever since this extreme law passed in 2010, its stated - [Today at the Supreme Court: Can a State Create Its Own Immigration System?](https://neappleseed.org/6043) - Earlier today the United States Supreme Court heard arguments regarding the constitutionality of Arizona’s notorious state-level immigration enforcement law, S.B. 1070, in Arizona v. United States. Yesterday we described the socially toxic and economically self-defeating outcomes that have resulted from Arizona-style laws. Today, we will outline the legal arguments of the case, in which the - [Extending Foster Care to 21: Next Steps](https://neappleseed.org/6047) - In October 2010, the Fostering Connections Act made federal funding available to assist states in extending foster care services to youth until age 21. At least 12 states have taken advantage of this unique opportunity to date, and many more are continuing to express interest. Senator Amanda McGill introduced LB 1150 this legislative session in - [While Studies Show Line Speed Is Crippling Poultry Workers, USDA Proposes Doubling the Allowable Speed](https://neappleseed.org/6051) - As we have heard from hundreds of people who work in meat and poultry processing, "the speed kills you." Relentless work speed and thousands of repetitive motions cause workers' hands to swell with pain and later lead to permanently crippling injuries. Workers are told they have to "learn to live with the pain," and many - [Remaining Uninsured](https://neappleseed.org/6055) - A new study released on April 19, by the Commonwealth Fund underscores the necessity of having insurance, and the difficulties of navigating the individual market: Approximately one-quarter of adults between the ages of 19 and 64 experienced a significant gap in their health insurance coverage in 2011, and compared to those who had continuous coverage, they - [How the System Fails Youth, Part 1: Aging Out of Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/6061) - Every day this week, we will provide a in-depth look into the needs of youth in foster care. Teens heading out on their own for the first time are bound to make a few blunders along the way, like spending money on something frivolous or prioritizing fun over study time. Most young people have someone - [How the System Fails Youth, Part 2: Former Ward Denied Services on a Technicality](https://neappleseed.org/6078) - Every day this week, we will provide a in-depth look into the needs of youth in foster care. Oscar describes himself as the “average teenager.” He is 19 years old and takes college courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. However, Oscar has faced numerous challenges in his life. He was placed in the - [How the System Fails Youth, Part 3: Too Late to Apply for Former Ward](https://neappleseed.org/6093) - Every day this week, we will provide a in-depth look into the needs of youth in foster care. At the age of 18, Janteice was struggling to support herself, attend school, and work full-time when her case closed without warning. Janteice is now completely on her own and unable to qualify for the Former Ward - [How the System Fails Youth, Part 4: Former Ward Services Too Narrow](https://neappleseed.org/6099) - Every day this week, we will provide a in-depth look into the needs of youth in foster care. Nadia was 12 years old when she was adopted from Russia. At the age of 17, she was removed from her adoptive parents’ home and placed in the foster care system. When Nadia aged out, she was - [How the System Fails Youth, Part 5: Missouri’s Extended Foster Care Program](https://neappleseed.org/6105) - Ashley is a walking example of how extending foster care services could positively impact youth in care. Ashley aged out of Missouri’s foster care system when she was 21, so she can talk explicitly about “…the difference between aging out at 19 and aging out at 21.” Ashley was able to receive all the support - [Puzzling over the Supreme Court Argument in the Arizona Case](https://neappleseed.org/6125) - Linda Greenhouse, a former New York Times reporter on the Supreme Court, offers this excellent piece puzzling over the recent Supreme Court argument on Arizona's notorious "show me your papers" law, S.B. 1070: I found last week’s Supreme Court argument in the Arizona immigration case utterly depressing, and I’ve spent the intervening week puzzling over my reaction. - [Honoring Senator Kathy Campbell](https://neappleseed.org/6141) - Save the Date! Nebraska Appleseed’s 2012 Good Apple Awards Thursday, October 4, 2012 Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom 4920 S. 30th Street Omaha, NE Cocktails & hors d’oeuvres: 6pm Program & ceremony: 7pm honoring Senator Kathy Campbell Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award This year, Appleseed is proud to recognize Senator Kathy Campbell with the Jim Wolf - [Access to Health Care Is Becoming More Problematic](https://neappleseed.org/6152) - The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recently released a report that measured state-level changes in access to health care between 2000 and 2010. The report looks at the likelihood of having unmet medical needs due to cost, the likelihood of receiving a routine checkup, and receiving a dental visit, and it found that there had been a - [The ACA - Putting Money Back in Our Pockets](https://neappleseed.org/6165) - Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, millions of people are expected to receive checks from their insurance companies this year. Kaiser Health News estimates that insurance companies will be sending $1.3 billion back to consumers under a provision in the Affordable Care Act that requires insurance carriers to spend 80-85% of premium dollars on actual health - [Micah Wullschleger, Former Nebraska Appleseed Intern, Goes to Haiti](https://neappleseed.org/6168) - I have had the great opportunity to work at Nebraska Appleseed this past semester as an intern for the immigration and racial justice program. As a student at UNL, I had some familiarity with Appleseed and their involvement in the Lincoln community, but as an intern, I came to understand the full extent of Appleseed's - [Lawsuit Filed to Protect the Rights of Nebraska Children with Autism and Developmental Disabilities](https://neappleseed.org/6187) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed and the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) filed a class action lawsuit in Lancaster County District Court against two officers of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on behalf of two children who have been denied necessary behavioral health treatment recommended by their doctors. The suit challenges an HHS - [The Day is Here: Challenging Restrictive Behavioral Health Policies](https://neappleseed.org/6203) - All Nebraska children should have the support they need to be healthy and productive as they grow up. Early behavioral health services are proven to be most effective for children, save money, and are required by Medicaid under federal law. On Friday, Nebraska Appleseed, with our partners at the National Health Law Program (NHeLP), filed - [Lilly Ledbetter to Speak in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/6236) - How Federal Courts Impact Our Lives: One Woman’s Battle for Justice Tuesday July 10, 2012, 7-9pm REGISTRATION CLOSED For 10 years, Lilly Ledbetter fought to close the gap between women’s and men’s wages, sparring with the Supreme Court, in a historic discrimination case against Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. Ledbetter won a jury verdict of - [Being Sick Inside the Healthcare System](https://neappleseed.org/6240) - NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Harvard School of Public Health recently conducted a poll to get a sense of what being sick inside the U.S. healthcare system is really like. You can read the story or listen to the report, or view the poll results. Notably, three-quarters of those surveyed who had - [The Spring 2012 Edition of “At the Core”](https://neappleseed.org/6247) - The end of the 2012 Nebraska legislative session finished with a flurry of activity on prenatal care, child welfare, and a number of Appleseed’s priority bills passing. You can read about these successes and other recent efforts in the latest edition of our bi-annual newsletter “At the Core.” Download a printable copy of "At the - [Nebraska Is Home to Summer Festivals Celebrating Many Cultural Traditions](https://neappleseed.org/6277) - Nebraska is alive through the summer with festivals where arts and traditions that give us pride in our heritage can be shared with friends and neighbors. Last weekend's Omaha Heritage Festival offered a way for neighbors to meet one another and share music, food, and friendship from countries around the world. For generations, Omaha and - [The Importance of a Manageable Caseload](https://neappleseed.org/6290) - Recently, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued a news release announcing a change in caseload standards in response to the passage of LB 961. As our readers may know, five bills targeting Nebraska’s foster care system were passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor this session. Among other things, - [Analysis of Omaha Polling Place Closures Reveals Troubling Disparities](https://neappleseed.org/6294) - On Wednesday, The Reader published an in-depth feature story detailing the Omaha communities impacted by the decision to close 166 polling places in Douglas County. The Reader conducted weeks of comprehensive analysis that was reviewed independently and confirmed by Nebraskans for Civic Reform. The findings are startling. The data shows that the closures had a - [Free CLE Credit - Affordable Care Act Webinar](https://neappleseed.org/6306) - Nebraska Appleseed is offering a free webinar on June 13th, from 12 to 1 pm, on the Affordable Care Act and the Supreme Court. The webinar is approved for 1 CLE credit through the Nebraska Bar Association, and will address the basic provisions of the Affordable Care Act, including the consumer protection provisions, the Medicaid - [Private Prison Industry Profits from Immigrant Detentions at Taxpayer Expense](https://neappleseed.org/6310) - Another disconcerting investigative report - this time from Chris Kirkham at the Huffington Post - reveals rising profits in the private prison industry from immigrant detention: "the industry has seen its revenues swell at taxpayer expense." The article explores the industry's new business model and the profit motive to support laws like Arizona's, showing that - [Anticipating the Supreme Court’s Decision](https://neappleseed.org/6314) - The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to release its decision on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act later this month, which means that now is a good time to review the questions and possible outcomes. Kaiser Health News has an excellent chart, released last November, describing the questions, how they’re related, and potential outcomes. - [Summer Meals Progress Report](https://neappleseed.org/6318) - During the school year, thousands of Nebraska children benefit from the National School Lunch Free and Reduced Price Meals program. This program assures that low-income kids have access to nutritious meals in schools so that they can learn and grow. Unfortunately, hunger rates increase in the summer, especially for kids. In Nebraska, we reach just - [Ground Shift Implications](https://neappleseed.org/6327) - A recent Health Affairs blog post discusses possible implications for the Supreme Court decision on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. Each of the Court’s possible rulings was given a Richter Scale rating based on how great a “ground shift” it would cause. Read the full post at Health Affairs The Richter Scale is - [To Earn a Living Wage, Nebraskans Need More Education & Skills Training](https://neappleseed.org/6331) - It is not easy to find a job that will pay sufficient wage to support a family. Indeed, in today’s economy, education and skills are needed by all - young and old. That is just part of what I learned last week in Chicago at the Working Poor Families Project (WPFP) training, where advocates from - [Award-winning Journalist Shares Story of Being an Undocumented Immigrant](https://neappleseed.org/6339) - “I want to give back to a community that has given me so much.” “For me, U.S. citizenship would be an outward manifestation of an inward truth.” Many of America’s undocumented came to the United States as young children and grew up not knowing they didn’t have the right immigration papers. They seek an education - [Hope for DREAMers, a Sensible Immigration System, and Time for Action...](https://neappleseed.org/6345) - On Friday, June 15th, President Obama announced an encouraging new policy that will grant relief from deportations for undocumented youth who are known as DREAMers. These young immigrants grew up in United States and dream of using their education and skills to contribute to society. They are American in all ways except for one—paperwork—but last - [Former Intern's Views of Haiti](https://neappleseed.org/6359) - Micah Wullschleger is a former Nebraska Appleseed intern currently working in Haiti. "Whenever the name of Haiti is mentioned in the international media, it is immediately followed by what seems to be a title, a last name or a claim to fame: The poorest country in the western hemisphere. It is the only country whose - [More Benefits to Nebraskans From the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/6363) - Yesterday, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that 12.8 million Americans will benefit from $1.1 billion in rebates from insurance companies this summer, because of the Affordable Care Act’s 80/20 rule. Nebraskans are expected to receive $4.8 million in rebates. More than 46,000 people will get a rebate, with an average of - [As a Supreme Court Decision on Arizona’s SB 1070 Looms, States Reflect on Rippling Effect Felt Throughout the Nation Since the Law’s Passage in 2010](https://neappleseed.org/6369) - With the U.S. Supreme Court expected to rule on Arizona’s notorious immigration law any day now, states are reflecting on the devastating social and economic effects witnessed in Arizona and Alabama that have caused localities to turn away from the approach. A federal judge temporarily blocked portions of Arizona’s law, including its “Show me your - [Supreme Court Strikes Down Most of Arizona’s Immigration Law](https://neappleseed.org/6374) - Nebraskans emphasize toxic social and economic outcomes Today the Supreme Court issued a first ruling on Arizona’s immigration enforcement law. In response, Nebraska Appleseed issued this media release: Today, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down three of the four provisions of Arizona’s notorious “show me your papers” law, a state-level immigration policy that Nebraska and - [The High Stakes of the ACA](https://neappleseed.org/6384) - A recent article in The New York Times features several Lincoln residents, among others, who have a lot to lose if the Affordable Care Act is struck down by the Supreme Court on Thursday. Many insurance companies refuse to sell to those who have pre-existing conditions. Pre-existing conditions can be anything from a chronic illness to - [A Great Day for Nebraskans: Nebraska Appleseed Applauds Supreme Court Ruling on the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/6388) - Nebraska Appleseed applauds the U.S. Supreme Court ruling today finding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act legal and constitutional. “Today is a great day for Nebraskans and the future health of our country, our families, and our friends and neighbors,” said Rebecca Gould, Executive Director at Nebraska Appleseed. “This is the right legal result - [World Refugee Day and "You’re Welcome" in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/6391) - “We are not so different.” The boy writing on the dry-erase board had asked about You’re Welcome, a new collaborative effort in Omaha to promote a welcoming, inclusive community. The idea is that immigrants resettling in a community have a far better chance of integrating if the others in that community are receptive to including their new neighbors. - [What Does the Supreme Court’s Decision Really Mean?](https://neappleseed.org/6407) - That seems to be the big question, although the bottom line is clear: the Affordable Care Act is constitutional, and health reform will continue to be implemented. But as with many Supreme Court cases, there are a lot of details to work out. The opinion, written by Chief Justice Roberts generally upholds the Affordable Care - [You’re Welcome! Photo Anthology](https://neappleseed.org/6410) - Nebraska’s summer cultural festivals create a perfect opportunity to recognize and appreciate the diversity in our state. By sharing music, food, and art -- as we have for generations -- communities come together and begin to create a culture of inclusiveness. Throughout the summer, we’ll be presenting photos of Nebraskans sharing why they believe Nebraska - [Defending the First Line of Defense Against Hunger](https://neappleseed.org/6423) - The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps), is frequently referred to as the nation’s first line of defense against hunger. Since the beginning of the program, SNAP has helped millions of Americans avoid hunger and malnutrition, especially children, the elderly, and people with disabilities (for a historical perspective on SNAP, watch - [Health Care, Immigration, Fair Pay & You’re Welcome!](https://neappleseed.org/6428) - In this edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Health Reform: Quality, affordable and constitutional health care for all; Arizona’s SB1070: Socially toxic and unconstitutional; Lilly Ledbetter in Omaha: One Woman's Battle for Justice; You’re Welcome in Omaha!; Take Action: Opportunity for DREAMers - [Inspiring Young Activist Gaby Pacheco Shares the DREAM with Students in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/6452) - There were plenty of people talking the talk about the recent shift in immigration policy granting relief from deportation for young immigrants eligible for the DREAM Act. But activist Gaby Pacheco was one to walk the walk, literally. - [My Weekend at Camp](https://neappleseed.org/6456) - Camp Catch-Up, through the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation (NCFF), is a one-of-a-kind, annual camp that brings together siblings separated by foster care or adoption for three days of pure, unbridled childhood fun. - [Ledbetter’s Story Shows Why Courts Matter](https://neappleseed.org/6472) - Lilly Ledbetter unknowingly lived in injustice for almost 20 years. But when she finally discovered she had been paid far less than her male co-workers as a supervisor at a Goodyear tire plant in Alabama, she had to wait nearly a decade for the justice system to reach a final verdict. While her case went - [Register Today for CFRA's Grassroots Advocacy Training](https://neappleseed.org/6492) - Here's a great opportunity to learn more about engaging in advocacy on issues you care about from the great folks at the Center for Rural Affairs. We have a few spots left - RSVP today. You can help us spread the word by forwarding this email to friends, family and neighbors who might be interested. - [OpenSky Policy Institute Report Shines Light on Nebraska State Budget](https://neappleseed.org/6496) - “The salvation of the state is watchfulness in the citizen.” These words are engraved over the entrance to Nebraska’s state capitol. They have added meaning here in Nebraska, the only state in the nation with a Unicameral Legislature. Today, a new report from the OpenSky Policy Institute, “Looking for Clarity: An Overview of Nebraska Budget - [Nebraska Among States that Would Benefit Most from Medicaid Expansion](https://neappleseed.org/6501) - 54% of Nebraska’s uninsured population with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level could gain access to health insurance through an expanded Medicaid program. - [Joseph Bakura, a South Sudanese Refugee, Says Nebraska is Welcoming State](https://neappleseed.org/6505) - Seeking political asylum, refugee Joseph Bakura came to the United States in December of 2000. Having initially lived in Maine for six years, he says Nebraska is a very welcoming place. “Nebraska has a large number of Sudanese,” he said. “That’s a good indication that Nebraska is a welcoming place.” Bakura moved to Nebraska for - [A Great Opportunity and a Real Solution](https://neappleseed.org/6516) - Nebraska advocates urge expanding health care coverage under Affordable Care Act Today, representatives of several Nebraska organizations, including Nebraska Appleseed came together in support of the opportunity under the Affordable Care Act to increase access to health care coverage. The ACA creates a new program that will provide coverage to persons under the age of - [Omaha Community Leaders Know Diversity is Strength](https://neappleseed.org/6528) - This evening, more than 20 community organizations, numerous Omaha artists, and other welcoming Omahans will gather for You’re Welcome at House of Loom starting at 8:00pm for a night of art, music, and inclusion. This evening’s kick-off event marks the beginning of You’re Welcome’s work to celebrate Omaha as a diverse and connected community through - [Former Appleseed intern examines The Pursuit of Happyness](https://neappleseed.org/6532) - Last month, former Nebraska Appleseed intern Hung Vo, a current student at Lincoln High School, had a blog post published in HuffPost Teen, a teen-focused offshoot of The Huffington Post. Hung took a look at the other side of the popular 2006 movie The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith - a classic rags-to-riches story - [You’re Welcome Kick-Off Event Huge Success](https://neappleseed.org/6545) - Thanks to everyone who made it out to House of Loom Friday night for Omaha’s You're Welcome kick-off event! The evening started off with DJ Brent Crampton mixing some tunes as early arrivers viewed vibrant, original screen-prints and art created by Omaha artists. Christa Yoakum, coordinator of You’re Welcome and Nebraska is Home, welcomed the - [Many Voices Are Stronger Together](https://neappleseed.org/6559) - One voice shouting on a street corner may be easy to ignore, but a large group speaking together is a voice that will be heard. This week, many community groups gathered in Omaha to discuss the power of unity at “Stronger Together,” a retreat facilitated by the Leadership Conference Education Fund. At the “Stronger Together” - [Leaving Money on the Table](https://neappleseed.org/6563) - Now that the furor immediately surrounding the Supreme Court’s decision upholding the Affordable Care Act has died down, the battle for healthcare coverage has moved to the individual states. According to this infographic from MSNBC, only four states have said outright they will refuse to take up the Medicaid expansion, but nine states have stated - [Join Nebraska Appleseed Saturday at Loom Weaves in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/6593) - Just a reminder to come by and see Nebraska Appleseed at “Loom Weaves,” House of Loom’s annual multicultural festival at the Joslyn Art Museum Sculpture Garden in Omaha (2200 Dodge St.) tomorrow starting at 2 p.m. Appleseed will have a booth where you can get free Appleseed keepsakes and have your picture taken with your - [ACCESS Nebraska Update](https://neappleseed.org/6609) - Nebraska Appleseed has been watching carefully the implementation of ACCESS Nebraska, our state's new way of managing public assistance programs like food stamps and Medicaid. Some of you may be wondering: how is it going? This article from the Omaha World Herald provides an update on ACCESS Nebraska from multiple perspectives: "Nebraska's Food Stamp Errors - [We Are Still Fighting the War on Poverty](https://neappleseed.org/6621) - Milo Mumgaard is the founder and former Executive Director of Nebraska Appleseed. Peter Edelman recently wrote an on-point opinion piece in The New York Times on the challenge of ending poverty. This article is sobering stuff with the release of the annual poverty figures coming out next month, which will show the highest percentage of - [A Summer of Youth Focus Groups](https://neappleseed.org/6626) - You may remember past blogs about an exciting new program that would extend services and support for youth who age out of foster care to the age of 21. These services and supports would include, among other things, Medicaid coverage, housing assistance, and youth-directed case management. State Senator Amanda McGill introduced LB 1150 in January - [Take Action on Medicaid, Appleseed at Maha, & The Good Apple Awards!](https://neappleseed.org/6641) - The temperature hasn’t been the only thing heating up in Nebraska the past few weeks. The debate on whether Nebraska will take the Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion - and expand health care coverage to at least 50,000 uninsured Nebraskans - has been heating up as well. In spite of the heat, Appleseed has been - [Join Appleseed at the Maha Music Festival](https://neappleseed.org/6630) - We have some exciting news to share: Appleseed is going to the Maha Music Festival on August 11! Each year, the nonprofit and volunteer-led Maha Music Festival in Omaha brings the community together around great local and national music. As Maha puts it, “It’s about being in Omaha and loving every second of it. In - [Preventive Care for Women Now Available Without Cost-Sharing](https://neappleseed.org/6650) - The Affordable Care Act requires certain women’s preventive health services to be made available without cost-sharing for plan years beginning on or after August 1. There has been a lot of media coverage on this provision, but the National Health Law Program has a great Q&A to answer all your questions on what services are - [The Economic Dividends of Welcoming Immigrants](https://neappleseed.org/6654) - You’re Welcome celebrates diverse communities that welcome both immigrant and non-immigrant neighbors. But it’s not just our communities that are enriched when all people are welcome, it is also true that local businesses and economies thrive when all people are able to work together. Forbes magazine recently published an article discussing the business opportunities that - [Lincoln Journal Star Editorial Calls for Greater Efficiency in ACCESSNebraska](https://neappleseed.org/6661) - The Lincoln Journal Star discussed ACCESSNebraska in a staff editorial that ran in Wednesday’s paper. Nebraska Appleseed joins the Journal Star in calling for greater efficiency and accountability in providing these essential services that so many of our lowest-income Nebraskans depend on. - [Good News for Those With Pre-existing Conditions](https://neappleseed.org/6665) - Now that the Affordable Care Act has been upheld by the Supreme Court, there’s good news for those with pre-existing conditions that might have previously kept them from getting health insurance. Starting in 2014, insurance companies can no longer refuse to issue policies because an adult has a pre-existing condition, or issue a policy that - [Important Information on New Prenatal Care Law](https://neappleseed.org/6681) - A few months ago the Nebraska Legislature passed Legislative Bill 599 (LB599), which restores coverage of prenatal care to all unborn children, regardless of the immigration status of the mother. The law went into effect on July 19, so women can start applying for and receiving coverage for prenatal care services as long as they - [The High Cost of Being Uninsured](https://neappleseed.org/6684) - In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there has been a lot of talk about the high cost of health care reform in dollars and cents. But the costs of not changing our health care system are even higher, and not just in a financial sense. Dr. Dave - [A Step Forward for Aspiring U.S. Citizens](https://neappleseed.org/6688) - Tomorrow, applications for the important new deferred action policy for DREAMers will be released. This worthwhile policy grants temporary relief from deportation for DREAMers - young, aspiring citizens who have grown up in the United States - and allows applicants to apply for a two-year work permit. Most important, it reaffirms that these youth are - [Nebraska Medicaid Expansion - By the Numbers](https://neappleseed.org/6694) - A new report released recently by the Urban Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation breaks down exactly which demographics will benefit from the Medicaid expansion. The state-by-state analysis suggests that 15.1 million Americans could gain coverage if the Medicaid expansion is fully implemented. In Nebraska, that’s 78,000 people that make less than 138% of - [Public Meeting “A Positive Step” in Health Insurance Exchange Implementation](https://neappleseed.org/6700) - This morning the Governor announced a series of meetings regarding a health insurance exchange in Nebraska. The exchanges under the Affordable Care Act are a great opportunity to create a marketplace that provides consumers with clear information and choices and will result in access to health care for thousands of Nebraskans and a stronger future - [Maha Music Festival and You’re Welcome in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/6711) - This past weekend marked the fourth annual MAHA Music Festival in Omaha. The nonprofit music festival brings local and national music groups together in the spirit of arts celebration and community building. One symbol that was hard to miss the day of the festival was the MAHA bird. The logo pays tribute to Chief Blackbird - [Racial Profiling Forum in Omaha Seeks to Take Action! in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/6721) - On Saturday, you are invited to join us at the Malcolm X Foundation to discuss strategies and solutions to the problem of racial profiling in Nebraska. - [Across-the-Board Budget Cuts will Hurt Crucial Nebraska Programs](https://neappleseed.org/6732) - Nebraska and all the states will face devastating cuts to their federal funding beginning January 1, 2013, if no action is taken by Congress to address the automatic cuts required by the Budget Control Act. The Budget Control Act required a committee to come to a deal regarding budget cuts to make for deficit reduction. - [UNMC Report Reveals Medicaid Opportunity We Can't Miss](https://neappleseed.org/6740) - Today, the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Center for Health Policy released a report examining the potential economic impact the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) new Medicaid program would have on Nebraska. The results paint a clear picture that the state would receive significant returns on an investment made in the good health and well-being of - [Public Hearings on Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/6753) - As Nebraska moves forward in implementing the Affordable Care Act, a crucial part is in the creation of an Exchange, and it is imperative that your voice is heard! The Exchange will serve thousands of Nebraskans, and will be the place many access health insurance and get premium tax credits. As a result, it is - [Investments in Americans Pay Great Dividends](https://neappleseed.org/6756) - Yesterday, a guest column appeared in the Lincoln Journal Star written by James C. Roumell titled “What I built - with government help.” Mr. Roumell is, by the classical definition, a self-made man. He grew up in a working-class neighborhood in Detroit. He went to college. He started a small business that has grown into - [Who Does the Affordable Care Act Help?](https://neappleseed.org/6762) - At Nebraska Appleseed, we’ve become familiar with countless stories that illustrate the many ways the Affordable Care Act will help individuals and families. Georgetown’s Center for Children and Families posted the first story in a series, profiling everyday people whose situations illustrate how important health reform is. In Josh’s case, the ACA will help his - [Journal Star Editorial Reveals “Silent Tax,” a Huge Cost to Health Care Consumers](https://neappleseed.org/6769) - In the discussions about how to fix our broken health care system, much has been made on how much it would cost the state to take up the Affordable Care Act’s new Medicaid guidelines. But an editorial in today’s Lincoln Journal Star shines a light on the huge cost of uncompensated care that hospitals and - [In Advance of Labor Day, Advocates Appeal to International Body Regarding Meatpacking Workers’ Rights](https://neappleseed.org/6773) - Worker health and food safety compromised in modern meat and poultry processing plants Chicago and Minneapolis – As the Labor Day holiday celebrating workers approaches, the Midwest Coalition for Human Rights and Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest filed a petition with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) requesting a hearing to address - [SAVE Asks Organizations to Sign On to Protect Vital Services from Budget Cuts](https://neappleseed.org/6782) - As we discussed last week, Nebraska and every state is facing devastating cuts to important programs beginning January 1, 2013. That is, unless Congress replaces these cuts with a different approach. Recently we encouraged our Congressional delegation to replace these across-the-board cuts with a balanced approach to deficit reduction, one that would include significant new - [Consumer Advocates Weigh in on Nebraska State Health Exchange](https://neappleseed.org/6785) - This morning, Governor Heineman invited a broad range of consumer advocates to give testimony on the creation of a state-based health insurance exchange in Nebraska. Nebraska Appleseed was one of the organizations that offered testimony - expressing our hopes that a state exchange will be focused on the consumer and increase access and affordability of - [Nebraska ICWA Coalition to be honored with Appleseed’s “Seeds of Justice” Award](https://neappleseed.org/6790) - Over the next few weeks we will be telling you about this year’s recipients of our Good Apple Awards, which will be honored at the Good Apple Awards on October 4, 2012 in Omaha. This year, we are proud to present our Seeds of Justice Award for outstanding legal contributions to public interest law to - [Join Us for a Child Welfare Forum Sept 13, 2012](https://neappleseed.org/6796) - Please JOIN US for a child welfare forum on evidence-based practice related to prevention and early intervention! DATE: Thursday, September 13th TIME: 1:00-4:00 p.m. LOCATION: The Cornhusker Hotel, The Lancaster 123 Room, 333 S. 13th St., Lincoln, NE RSVP: online at http://neappl.es/sparcrsvp or to Cynthia Davis at cynthia@neappleseed.org The forum will be structured in three parts: - [Talk about Poverty: Jessica’s Story](https://neappleseed.org/6804) - Jessica Bartholow is one of the brightest and most hard working anti-poverty advocates out there, and I’m proud to know her. She shares her story, and her questions for President Obama and Governor Romney regarding how they would ensure economic security in this article from “The Nation.” Jessica is a testament to the idea that - [Senator Kathy Campbell honored for her leadership improving the lives of Nebraska children](https://neappleseed.org/6811) - Over the next few weeks we will be telling you about this year’s recipients of our Good Apple Awards, which will be honored at the Good Apple Awards on October 4, 2012 in Omaha. This year, we are proud to present the Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award for lifetime achievement to Senator Kathy Campbell. The - [Photography project shows the true faces of homeless youth](https://neappleseed.org/6818) - Craig Blankenhorn is an award-winning photographer, whose work is part of the permanent collection at the Museum of the City of New York. His recent project titled “Child Homeless” is a collection of photos that document some of the 1.6 million homeless children in the U.S. Blankenhorn spent time with homeless families in New Jersey, - [Health Insurance Exchange Meeting in Omaha Tonight - Make Your Voice Heard](https://neappleseed.org/6828) - The Department of Insurance is holding a public meeting tonight in Omaha where you will have the chance to weigh in on what a health insurance exchange - or marketplace - would look like in Nebraska and how it would work for consumers. This is your opportunity to make your voice heard and to ask - [Community Organizations Work Together to Provide Hundreds of Young Nebraskans with Information about New Policy for DREAMers](https://neappleseed.org/6831) - Omaha, Lincoln, and Columbus — A wide variety of community and faith organizations worked together on Sunday to provide approximately 500 young Nebraskans and family members with information about a new immigration policy for DREAMers. The new Department of Homeland Security policy (DACA – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) provides relief from deportation for law-abiding, - [More groups take stances opposing Fremont’s oppressive anti-immigrant ordinance](https://neappleseed.org/6835) - Last week, several civil rights organizations filed amicus briefs in the federal case opposing Fremont’s anti-immigrant ordinance. It is encouraging so many groups are standing against this measure that is clearly damaging to the fabric of the community. Nebraska Appleseed filed our own amicus brief in opposition to the ordinance in July. In our brief, - [Child Welfare Forum brings national experts to work with Nebraska stakeholders](https://neappleseed.org/6844) - Where: The Cornhusker Hotel (Lancaster 123 Room), 333 S. 13th St., Lincoln When: Thursday, September 14, 1:00-4:00 p.m. National child welfare experts will join more than 100 local stakeholders on Thursday for a Child Welfare Forum at The Cornhusker Hotel from 1:00-4:00 p.m. in an event designed to provide information and generate discussion around evidence-based - [Public programs help millions living in poverty](https://neappleseed.org/6849) - On Wednesday, the U.S. Census Bureau released its latest poverty, income, and health care statistics. The data indicate that while the number of Americans living in poverty has stabilized from increases since the start of the economic recession, more must be done to help the millions of Americans still suffering under the crushing weight of - [September News from Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/6861) - In this September edition of “Appleseed in Action”: New data on poverty in America UNMC report reveals Medicaid expansion would cover 90,000 uninsured Deferred Action Forum: a new opportunity for DREAMers Appleseed files petition for hearing on meatpacking worker health & safety Join us at the Good Apple Awards on October 4 New data on - [You’re Welcome in Omaha Celebrates National Welcoming Week](https://neappleseed.org/6864) - This week, You’re Welcome in Omaha will join Welcoming America affiliates across the country to celebrate the first National Welcoming Week. Across Omaha, throughout schools, public places and businesses, posters designed by local artists will spread a message of “Welcome” in many languages. Other community activities will be posted at NebraskaIsHome.org More than 20 Omaha - [Appleseed Testifies at Interim Study Hearing on Poverty and Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/6876) - On Thursday morning, Nebraska Appleseed participated in an interim study, LR529, on the “front door” or entries to Nebraska’s child welfare system. Appleseed’s Executive Director, Becky Gould, testified about the role anti-poverty programs can play in supporting families and preventing children from ending up in the child welfare system. “We believe that effectively addressing poverty - [Child Welfare Forum brings national experts to Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/6883) - Last Thursday, six national child welfare experts met with nearly 100 local stakeholders for a Child Welfare Forum focusing on evidence-based practice in prevention and early intervention. After testifying at the Legislature interim study in the morning, the team of experts provided information in an afternoon session on best practices and what is working across - [Roots of Justice Awardees build multi-ethnic alliances to fight for justice](https://neappleseed.org/6888) - In just two weeks Appleseed will host the Good Apple Awards on October 4 in Omaha. We wrote recently about some of our honorees including Senator Kathy Campbell and the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Act Coalition. This year, Appleseed is proud to present our Roots of Justice Award to a trio of Omaha community leaders who work together to build multi-ethnic alliances - [Coalition Urges USDA to Withdraw Poultry Slaughter Proposal Due to Food Safety, Worker Safety Concerns](https://neappleseed.org/6902) - A coalition of 23 groups and 16 individuals today urged the Department of Agriculture to withdraw a proposal that increases poultry processing line speeds and removes hundreds of federal inspectors from poultry processing plants. The proposal, which would modify USDA’s poultry slaughter inspection program, increases the poultry line speed to an unsafe level and allows - [Join us at the Good Apple Awards on October 4](https://neappleseed.org/6908) - In just two weeks, Appleseed will celebrate Nebraskans who stand up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2012 Good Apple Awards Make your reservations today. Individual tickets are $50. Young professionals tickets are $35. Tickets for students, seniors, and fixed-income are $20. 100% of your purchase directly supports Appleseed’s efforts fighting for justice - [Interim study to assess state’s compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act](https://neappleseed.org/6923) - An alarming figure illustrates that Nebraska has the second-highest imbalance in the country when it comes to the number of Native American children in the state’s foster care system. Though Native Americans make up roughly one percent of Nebraska’s population, native children represent eight percent of the total number of children in foster care. Nebraska - [Omaha Celebrates National Welcoming Week](https://neappleseed.org/6936) - During Omaha Diversity Week and the first ever National Welcoming Week, activities in Omaha and around the country recognized efforts of inclusivity and inspiring others to welcome immigrant neighbors into the workplace and the community. Throughout Omaha, in business, in city government, and in community celebrations and social groups, Omahans recognized the contributions of immigrant - [Rachel Jacobson to Receive the Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/6946) - Appleseed’s annual Good Apple Awards is less than one week away and Appleseed is excited to highlight our final honoree. The Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award, named after Nebraska Appleseed's founding executive director, recognizes young, emerging leaders who have a vision for the best of what Nebraska can be and, through initiative, hard work, and - [Ruth Marimo, an Immigrant from Zimbabwe, Tells her Harrowing Story](https://neappleseed.org/6954) - Ruth Marimo is a thirty-one-year-old single, lesbian, African mother of two. While awaiting deportation almost two years ago, she began her incredible memoir, Freedom of an Illegal Immigrant. Her story begins in Zimbabwe. At five years old, she lost her mother to suicide, and her sibling died the same year. She was raised by her - [Five Things the U.S. Census Bureau Tells us About Poverty in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/6959) - The U.S. Census Bureau recently released a study regarding poverty nationwide and in Nebraska. What does this data tell us about how we are faring as a state? Five key points become clear: 1. Nebraska’s poverty levels are not improving: The number of people nationwide living in poverty remained essentially unchanged from a year ago, - [The Heavy Toll of Extreme Immigration Laws](https://neappleseed.org/6965) - Rev. H. Julian Gordy, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Southeastern Synod, wrote a powerful guest column in Sunday’s Montgomery Advertiser, the newspaper of record in Alabama’s capital. His piece is a reminder of the heavy toll extreme immigration laws continue to take on several Southern states. He describes the “economic fractures and - [Outstanding contributions to justice recognized at Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/6970) - Nebraska Appleseed recognized several courageous Nebraskans Thursday night whose work has contributed to the fight for justice and opportunity for all at the 2012 Good Apple Awards. More than 300 people attended the Good Apple Awards at the Omaha Livestock Exchange Building ballroom. Thursday’s event was the fourth such awards celebration for Nebraska Appleseed and - [Center For Rural Affairs Report says new program under the Affordable Care Act is critical for rural Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/6984) - The Center For Rural Affairs released a new report Monday that examines the effect a new Medicaid program would have on Nebraska’s rural communities. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) gives states the opportunity to provide coverage to low-income residents under age 65 through a new Medicaid program with significant federal assistance. The report, New Medicaid - [The Power of a Voice - Sen. McGill thanks youth for sharing their perspectives on the foster care system](https://neappleseed.org/7147) - “Your voice does matter to state senators, and your voice CAN make a difference.” These powerful words were spoken by Senator Amanda McGill in her modernized version of a thank you card to the more than 100 youth who participated in statewide focus groups and/or responded to surveys about an extended services and support to - [October 2012 News & Events](https://neappleseed.org/7167) - In this October edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Affordable Care Act community forums in Omaha & Lincoln Nebraska Student Organizing Conference: Oct. 20-21 Meet our law clerks! Nebraska’s emerging public interest leaders More than 325 people celebrate at the Good Apple Awards Stand Up For Justice: A Poster Show Benefiting Nebraska Appleseed Affordable Care - [Upcoming Community Forums explain Health Care Reform in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/7181) - Nebraska Appleseed is out and about in the community this week to participate in a pair of community events about the Affordable Care Act. On Wednesday night, join us for either a presentation in Lincoln or a panel discussion in Omaha. OMAHA Wednesday, October 17 from 7-9pm “Myth & Reality: Explaining the Affordable Care Act - [An Insider’s Perspective on the Proposed USDA Poultry Rule](https://neappleseed.org/7184) - Last week, we wrote about our concerns with the proposed new USDA rule for poultry processing. The new rule would drastically increase the speeds on the production line at which plants are allowed to run, which would make an already dangerous workplace even more unsafe. It would give inspectors only one-third of a second to - [Student Organizing Conference to train young advocates](https://neappleseed.org/7191) - Nebraska Appleseed is excited to have the chance to work with the next generation of young advocates and leaders this weekend at the Nebraska Student Organizing Conference at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center. The Nebraska Student Organizing Conference is an interactive leadership workshop where students will learn to develop and initiate progressive - [Crucial improvements necessary for ACCESS Nebraska system](https://neappleseed.org/7197) - Tuesday, the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee held an interim study on the progress made by ACCESS Nebraska, the state’s new public benefit delivery system. ACCESS Nebraska was designed to modernize the public benefits system and improve efficiency, but there have been many problems that have occurred as a result of the transition. At - [New report highlights dangerous working conditions in Midwest meat and poultry plants](https://neappleseed.org/7205) - A coalition of more than 50 Midwest human rights organizations, including Nebraska Appleseed, released a new report today that confirms dangerous conditions still exist for food and worker safety in meat and poultry processing plants. The report, titled “Always Working Beyond the Capacity of Our Bodies: Meat and Poultry Processing Work Conditions and Human Rights - [How the Affordable Care Act helps Nebraskans in a nutshell](https://neappleseed.org/7208) - The Affordable Care Act is already helping thousands of Nebraskans, and will help even more with full implementation of the law in 2014. Nebraska Appleseed has created a new fact sheet that explains the basics of the law, including the current consumer protections in effect, how you’ll be protected in the future, and the ways that - [Choosing Education](https://neappleseed.org/7229) - At a time when the highest-paying occupations and fastest-growing fields in Nebraska all require some type of academic credential or training, job-seeking adults with limited educational backgrounds are often at a disadvantage. Fortunately, parents in the Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) program have the right to take part in meaningful work activities that help them - [Wage subsidy bill would help put more Nebraskans to work](https://neappleseed.org/7235) - The great work ethic of Nebraska’s labor force is one of the most important drivers of our economy. Nebraskans work hard, and our businesses - especially small businesses - count on that hard work for success and economic growth. At the same time, Nebraska’s working people need new opportunities to earn family supporting wages. That’s - [Appleseed testifies for Nebraska to offer additional support for youth after foster care](https://neappleseed.org/7239) - As the Nebraska Legislature moves forward with reform of our broken child welfare system, much focus has rightly been on the “front door” of the system. One group that hasn’t been talked about as much are the young people who age out the “back door” of the system and how they fare as they make - [Community Conversations on the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/7253) - The Affordable Care Act, the new health care law, has been in effect for more than two years now and many of the consumer protections in the law are already in place. Yet, some confusion remains about the details of what the ACA really does. How could it help you better afford medical care? And - [Appleseed editorial: ‘Nebraska cannot waste chance to build exchange’](https://neappleseed.org/7261) - “The simple fact is everyone in Nebraska is going to get sick at some time in their life and require medical care. But, not all Nebraskans are able to afford the cost of a trip to the doctor.” This is the start of an editorial in today’s Lincoln Journal Star written by Jennifer Carter, director - [Community Conversations on the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/7273) - The Affordable Care Act, the new health care law, has been in effect for more than two years now and many of the consumer protections in the law are already in place. Yet, some confusion remains about the details of what the ACA really does. How could it help you better afford medical care? And - [Homeless After Foster Care: Young, Vulnerable, and On Their Own](https://neappleseed.org/7277) - On a chilly night in January 2012, the Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless’ (MAACH) Youth Task Force conducted short interviews with 267 young people who were experiencing homelessness. More than three-quarters were 18 or younger. A total of 35 percent had dependent children; 54 percent had not yet graduated from high school. - [Why more immigration is key to U.S. economic growth](https://neappleseed.org/7281) - Immigrants who have moved here care deeply about American values such as hard work and entrepreneurship and have always been strong contributors to the economy. A pair of recent articles are worth a read on how immigrant Americans have made essential contributions to our economy - and particularly to innovation - in past and present, - [New study says only half of small-business employees get health benefits](https://neappleseed.org/7287) - A new study from the Commonwealth Fund, an independent health care policy foundation, confirms an alarming, decade-long decline in the number of employees working in small businesses who receive health insurance from their employers. The report found that in 2010 only 49 percent of workers in small businesses with fewer than 50 employees were offered - [Getting Out the Vote with New Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/7302) - It’s Election Day, and Nebraska Appleseed is celebrating with community leaders who have been helping to ensure that new American voters across the state had the voting process information they needed to fully participate in the democracy. We worked with community leaders in six communities - Columbus, Crete, Grand Island, Lexington, Schuyler, and South Sioux - [Every voice matters - protecting each Nebraskan’s right to vote](https://neappleseed.org/7306) - Tuesday, nearly 800,000 Nebraskans cast a vote in the general election. We are proud that so many people in our state made their voices heard and exercised one of the fundamental rights in our country. However, there were many people in our state that found difficulty when it came to casting their ballot. Confusion around - [Quilted Conscience screenings November 13 & 15](https://neappleseed.org/7332) - Quilted Conscience is a documentary about the welcoming of cultural diversity in Grand Island. This documentary portrays a remarkable bond formed between a group of 16 Sudanese-American girls and a quilter’s guild, coming together to create something spectacular. Join us at one of two special screenings with John Sorensen, the film’s director, and artist Peggie - [Bridge programs train high-skilled workers for a stronger economy](https://neappleseed.org/7342) - Nebraska Appleseed does a lot of work to encourage more educational opportunities for people with lower incomes because we believe education is the best ladder for people to climb out of poverty. Better education means better, higher-paying jobs that can support families and allow hard-working Nebraskans to be self-sufficient. By 2018, 66 percent of all - [Join Us for Community Conversations on the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/7346) - Do you have questions about the Affordable Care Act - the new federal health care reform law? Wonder how it is already helping Nebraskans and what it could mean for our state in the coming years? If you live in or near York and Seward, you’ll have the chance to get those questions and more - [Bridging the Coverage Gap](https://neappleseed.org/7363) - The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the Affordable Care Act this summer was unexpected in that it made one important provision of the law - the ACA’s new Medicaid program - optional for states. This means if Nebraska decides not to implement the Medicaid program, it could create a coverage gap that leaves tens of - [Opportunity Scorecard reveals struggles, suggests solutions for working families in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/7367) - Economic security for Nebraska families is key to making our state great. But, despite working hard, too many Nebraska families struggle. A new assessment from Nebraska Appleseed released today examines how Nebraska stacks up in key economic indicators for working families. The Nebraska Opportunity Scorecard measures economic security, economic mobility, and economic opportunity in the - [Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Nebraska’s health insurance exchange plan](https://neappleseed.org/7371) - Today, Governor Heineman announced that the state would default to a federally facilitated exchange in Nebraska. Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca L. Gould issued the following statement in response: “Now that Nebraska has decided the federal government will facilitate our exchange, Nebraska Appleseed looks forward to working with federal and state officials to ensure the - [Take Action! 1/3 of a Second Isn’t Long Enough to Keep Food and Workers Safe](https://neappleseed.org/7381) - As Thanksgiving preparations begin, take just a moment to help stop a proposed new rule that would make food and workers less safe next year. A new rule proposed by the USDA would increase line speed in poultry plants, giving inspectors only 1/3 of a second to inspect each chicken — risking your food and - [Summer Food Programs keep hungry kids fed year-round](https://neappleseed.org/7387) - As we get ready for Thanksgiving this week and our thoughts are turning to the upcoming holiday season, summer seems far away. But it’s not too soon to imagine great possibilities for summer feeding programs for our kids, thanks to new funding from the Nebraska Department of Education Nutrition Services Division. Many people are surprised - [How the new Medicaid program would fuel the Nebraska economy](https://neappleseed.org/7392) - Last week, we talked about the coverage gap that about 78,000 Nebraskans would fall into if the Legislature chooses not to implement the new Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act. These are Nebraskans that don’t qualify for the current Medicaid program, but don’t make enough to be able to get tax credits to buy - [How can Nebraska close the skills gap?](https://neappleseed.org/7401) - We know that hard work is one of the values Nebraskans take the most pride in. But, how do we match up the Nebraskans who want to go to work with well-paying jobs that can help them succeed? 60 Minutes recently ran a story on what is called “the skills gap.” According to the story, there are - [First Friday poster benefit for Appleseed in Lincoln December 7](https://neappleseed.org/11302) - Appleseed is excited to announce that its benefit poster show Stand Up For Justice will be on display at Tugboat Gallery’s group exhibition Triple Threat this Friday for the December First Friday artwalk! Friday, December 7 7pm to 10pm Tugboat Gallery 116 North 14th St, 2nd Floor Lincoln, NE 68508 Appleseed partnered with Omaha graphic designer Justin Kemerling and Lincoln screen - [The Cost and Coverage Implications of the New Medicaid Program](https://neappleseed.org/11307) - Linda Manns from Bellevue had health insurance all her life, until she recently lost her job as a certified nurse assistant. Linda has diabetes, which kept her from working mandatory overtime her employer required, which she said resulted in her being let go. Recently, Linda got an infection in her toe. Without health insurance, she couldn’t - [Extra Credit: Resources for Non-Traditional, Parenting, and Low-Income Students](https://neappleseed.org/11315) - Getting a degree is one of the best long-term pathways out of poverty for low income families. Degree completion is also important to colleges and universities, especially important now as more non-traditional students are seeking post-secondary education. Research shows that access to public assistance programs, such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, can - [Welcoming Conference looks to create friendly communities for new Americans](https://neappleseed.org/11320) - A growing number of communities are recognizing the economic and social benefits of welcoming and engaging immigrant residents. Last week, 20 Welcoming America affiliates from communities in states near and far met to discuss diverse strategies for creating welcoming communities. Detroit is creating opportunities for immigrant and long-term neighbors to get to know one another in neighborhoods. - [Circuit Court of Appeals hears arguments on Fremont’s anti-immigrant law](https://neappleseed.org/11374) - Earlier Today, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments over Fremont’s anti-immigrant ordinance, a draconian law that established significant barriers to housing and employment in an attempt to make life for immigrants in Fremont nearly impossible. Although the core of the housing ordinance was found to be unconstitutional by the district court, a - [Children harmed by current immigration policies](https://neappleseed.org/11386) - When Katherine Figueroa went off to her school in Arizona each day, the same fear lingered in her head. “Every time when I went to school I kept thinking that maybe I wouldn’t see my parents when I came home,” she said. “I would also have bad dreams, like the deputies were taking my family and me - [Appleseed 2012 Year in Review - Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/11419) - This is part of a series looking back on Nebraska Appleseed’s work in 2012. Repairing Nebraska’s Broken Child Welfare System In 2012, Nebraska Appleseed responded to the crisis condition of Nebraska’s child welfare system. During the 2012 Legislative session, Appleseed worked with state senators and partners to support a package of five bills designed to stabilize and - [Appleseed 2012 Year in Review - Expanding Opportunities for Nebraska’s Low-Income Families](https://neappleseed.org/11435) - This is part of a series looking back on Nebraska Appleseed’s work in 2012. Protecting right to treatment for young children with developmental disabilities In May, Nebraska Appleseed filed a lawsuit on behalf of two children with developmental disabilities who were denied Medicaid coverage of medical treatments despite the treatments being deemed medically necessary by - [Nebraska’s Children’s Commission Releases Strategic Plan for Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Reform](https://neappleseed.org/11440) - Late last week, the Nebraska Children’s Commission, created by LB 821, released its Phase I Strategic Plan for Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Reform. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee of the Legislature will likely rely heavily on this strategic plan as they continue to work on improving Nebraska’s foster care system this coming Legislative Session. - [Appleseed 2012 Year in Review - Welcoming new Nebraskans for stronger, united communities](https://neappleseed.org/11446) - This is part of a series looking back on Nebraska Appleseed’s work in 2012. Nebraska Appleseed believes communities in which all people are welcome and engaged become stronger and more enriched. Our work in 2012 pursued the goals of creating a stronger Nebraska by fighting for the rights of new Americans. Promoting Common-Sense Immigration Laws - [Appleseed 2012 Year in Review - Health Care Access](https://neappleseed.org/11459) - This is part of a series looking back on Nebraska Appleseed’s work in 2012. Health care legislation took a prominent place in the news in 2012, and Nebraska Appleseed was on the front lines of the fight to ensure all Nebraskans have access to affordable, quality health care. Restoring prenatal care for all low-income Nebraska - [New immigration policy change will help preserve American families](https://neappleseed.org/11520) - How we treat immigrants should reflect our commitment to the values that define us as Americans. We all believe families should stick together and yet, our current immigration policies, unfortunately and too often, tear families apart instead of strengthening them - including U.S. citizens and immigrant family members. On Wednesday, however, Secretary of Homeland Security - [103rd Legislature presents chances to better lives of all Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/11624) - On Wednesday, the 1st session of the 103rd Nebraska Legislature will be convened at the state Capitol. In the session, our lawmakers will hear debate and vote on bills that address a number of vital issues in our state. Nebraska Appleseed is excited for the chance to work with our leaders to fight for equal - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - January 2013](https://neappleseed.org/11699) - In this Happy New Year edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Keep up with Nebraska Appleseed during 2013 Legislature session Appleseed Child Welfare reform recommendations Children’s Health Summit Welcoming America conference Extra Credit report Thanks for a great 2012! Keep up with news at the legislature and Appleseed in 2013 The Nebraska Legislature reconvenes today, and - [The Rural Implications of Health Insurance Coverage in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/11743) - The Center for Rural Affairs recently released a new report on health insurance coverage in Nebraska. The report highlights the need for full implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Nebraska, including the new Medicaid program. Our rural counties have higher rates of uninsured, as well as poorer health outcomes, than our cities. The new - [Nebraska Appleseed issues response to State of the State Address](https://neappleseed.org/11791) - Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Becky Gould issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State Address today. “This morning, Governor Heineman laid out his priorities for the next year in his State of the State Address. We agree that the State of Nebraska is strong and a great place to live. - [Nebraska Appleseed issues statement on the introduction of the Young Adult Voluntary Services and Support Act (LB 216)](https://neappleseed.org/11799) - Today, Senator Amanda McGill introduced LB 216, a bill to extend services and support to young people who transition, or “age out,” of the foster care system to age 21 as allowed by the federal Fostering Connections Act. Nebraska Appleseed Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey made the following statement in response: “LB 216, the Young - [Working Poor Families Report shows more families working low-paying, unstable jobs](https://neappleseed.org/11805) - Despite more families holding jobs, the ranks of the working poor are increasing according to a new report from the Working Poor Families Project. The report, “Low-Income Working Families: The Growing Economic Gap,” shows nearly one-third of the nation’s working families are paid wages so low they struggle to meet their basic needs. Indeed, according - [New Medicaid program gaining momentum as states recognize benefits](https://neappleseed.org/11874) - As state Legislatures come back into session this month and budget discussions begin, the new Medicaid option under the Affordable Care Act is gaining momentum. In the past week alone, the governors of Arizona and North Dakota, who both had previously spoken out against the ACA, included the new Medicaid plan in their budgets because - [Free screening of Precious Knowledge highlights importance of cultural education](https://neappleseed.org/11887) - On Tuesday, January 22, Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle and several Omaha organizations will sponsor a FREE showing of Precious Knowledge, a film that highlights one of the final years of the highly successful Mexican-American Studies Program at Tucson High School and the fight to abolish the program after Arizona lawmakers abolished ethnic studies classes in 2011. Following the - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/11895) - News and Updates from the Nebraska Unicameral Every week during the 2013 Legislative session, Nebraska Appleseed will publish a Legislative Update. In these updates we will keep you informed on the progression of bills Appleseed is interested in, including Legislative testimony given by Appleseed staff, as well as ways you can get involved and make - [LB 577 is a great opportunity & real solution to improve the health of all Nebraskans & our state economy](https://neappleseed.org/11902) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould made the following statement on LB 577, the legislative bill that would implement the Affordable Care Act’s new Medicaid program in Nebraska. “LB 577 is a tremendous step toward ensuring the future health of Nebraskans. The bill ensures that we take advantage of the opportunity to provide access to health - [Statement on bill to repeal prenatal health care](https://neappleseed.org/11907) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould issued the following statement on LB 518, a repeal of prenatal health care for all Nebraska women. “We are very disappointed to learn of this effort to undermine the health of Nebraska children by denying access to prenatal care. Last year, the Legislature had a thoughtful and deliberate discussion on - [Statement on the introduction of bills establishing more adequate ADC & foster care rates](https://neappleseed.org/11912) - Today, Senator Kathy Campbell introduced LB 508, a bill to incrementally increase the Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) rate in Nebraska to a more adequate level. Also today, Senator Annette Dubas introduced LB 530, a bill which, among other things, directs the Nebraska Department of Health and Human services to implement the recommendations of the - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/11940) - Last week was a busy week in the Nebraska Legislature as bill introduction finished up Wednesday, January 23. Several significant bills that Appleseed sees as priorities were introduced, as well as other bills Appleseed has a great interest in. ACA’s Medicaid program provides for a healthier Nebraska workforce and economy LB 577 - Wednesday, Senator Kathy - [Nebraska Appleseed welcomes focus on citizenship and momentum for reform](https://neappleseed.org/11950) - With this week’s major announcements on immigration from a bipartisan group of Senators and President Obama, momentum has never been stronger for immigration reform. We welcome the announcement that Republican and Democratic Senators are prepared to move forward with legislation that includes a roadmap to citizenship for 11 million aspiring Americans currently residing in the United States. - [New Report shows SNAP strengthens families in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/11955) - A new Nebraska Appleseed report shows how Nebraska’s working families are strengthened by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). “Policies That Work: How the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Can Help Working Families,” provides an overview of the challenges many working Nebraska families face to pay for their basic needs, and illustrates how policy change to - [A Successful Ascent to Adulthood](https://neappleseed.org/11987) - Nebraska is a state where we take care of our kids and want them to have a real opportunity to be productive, healthy, and engaged members of our community as adults. To that end, Appleseed took to the Capitol on Thursday with members of Project Everlast and other partners to advocate for LB 216 - - [Appleseed testifies in support of bill to better enable kinship homes in foster care](https://neappleseed.org/12019) - On January 31, Appleseed Child Welfare Director Sarah Helvey testified before the HHS Committee in support of LB 265. LB 265, introduced by Senator Colby Coash, would enable children in foster care to be placed with a family friend or person with whom the child has a previous, significant contact - known as a “kinship - [Appleseed testifies in support of bills to protect hardworking Nebraska employees](https://neappleseed.org/12024) - Monday, Nebraska Appleseed staff testified in front of the Legislature’s Business and Labor Committee on several bills aimed at encouraging honest employment practices and protecting hardworking Nebraskans. Darcy Tromanhauser, Director of the Immigrant Integration and Community Participation Program, testified in support of LB 560 which seeks to prevent wage theft in Nebraska and ensure that - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12031) - Child Welfare takes center stage on January 31 Nebraska Appleseed’s Child Welfare team took to the Capitol on Thursday, January 31, along with other partners, stakeholders, and young people with foster care experience in support of several bills that would continue to improve our state’s child welfare system. LB 216 - Thursday morning, Appleseed joined - [Regressive tax plan would threaten “The Good Life”](https://neappleseed.org/12060) - We oppose LB 405 because it would result in a regressive tax structure that puts that good life at risk. By depleting a significant portion of revenue for the state, this proposal reverses the investments we have made for generations in the very things that make Nebraska strong - great public education, safe communities, and - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - February 2013](https://neappleseed.org/12067) - In this February edition of “Appleseed in Action” A busy start to the 2013 legislative session Take Action: Oppose regressive tax proposals Appleseed responds to State of the State Address A roadmap to citizenship for aspiring Americans New reports show struggles for working families “Precious Knowledge” screening A busy start to the 2013 Legislative session - [Appleseed joins dozens of testifiers opposing regressive tax plan](https://neappleseed.org/12075) - Yesterday, Appleseed joined dozens of testifiers from around the state - farmers and business leaders, college students and faith groups, health care administrators and advocates - in opposing the regressive tax plan laid out in LB 405. In a hearing that went for nine-and-a-half hours, Nebraskans from all over the state waited well into the - [The beginning of a real conversation on immigration](https://neappleseed.org/12080) - NPR’s interview with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Service Employees International Union this week shows the beginning of a real conversation on immigration. As the two groups noted in the interview, “While we may disagree on a number of other issues, on this one we are lock step and working on fixing this - [Nebraska Appleseed Receives Grant to Further Anti-Hunger Efforts in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/12088) - Nebraska Appleseed is pleased to announce it has received a new grant from the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) to support its anti-hunger work. FRAC is a lead advocacy organization working to end hunger in America through stronger public policies. These new funds will support Appleseed’s work to raise awareness about the extent of - [Nebraska Cattlemen Promote Immigration Reform](https://neappleseed.org/12163) - Momentum around immigration reform continues to grow as new voices come forward to promote common-sense immigration laws at the federal level. An article in today’s Lincoln Journal Star highlights the Nebraska Cattlemen’s announcement of their support for positive reform. Leigh cattleman Chuck Folken describes how he has never forgotten the large-scale immigration raid in Grand Island before Christmas 2006: - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12174) - Last week, Appleseed testified on several bills at the Legislature Appleseed Opposes Harmful Tax Policy LB 405 and LB 406 - Two harmful bills that would create a regressive tax structure by eliminating the state income and corporate taxes and eliminate sales tax exemptions. Appleseed joined the overwhelming opposition to these two bills. Appleseed encourages a thorough, thoughtful - [What we all stand to gain from updated immigration laws](https://neappleseed.org/12180) - The inspiring young immigrant Americans in the audience of last night’s State of the Union address show both what we stand to gain from common-sense immigration laws and what we stand to lose from continued inaction. Their dreams, talents, and commitment to this country are enormous assets. Alan Aleman, a student of biological science, was a guest of Michelle - [How Do You Define ‘American’?](https://neappleseed.org/12188) - How do you define “American”? Journalist Jose Antonio Vargas asked this important question at the end of his testimony Wednesday to members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, who held a hearing over modernizing our federal immigration laws. Like Jose, we believe being American runs deeper than documentation. It’s about working hard, providing for your family, - [LB 235 protects voting rights for all Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/12200) - Last year, the decision to close 166 polling places in Douglas County impacted the ability to vote for thousands of Nebraskans. At the time, Nebraska Appleseed joined with several groups to call on the Douglas County Election Commissioner to restore the closed polling places and take steps to ensure voters are not disenfranchised in future - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12220) - Appleseed testified on a number of bills in committee last week Foster Care Reimbursement Rates LB 530 - A bill that increases reimbursements for foster families to better meet the needs of children in foster care, establishes a pilot project for a new method of determining rates, and extends the Children’s Commission and its subcommittees - [Come see the new NEAppleseed.org!](https://neappleseed.org/12227) - We are very excited to launch our newly re-designed web site at NEAppleseed.org! Not only does our new site have a sleek, updated look, but we’ve taken steps to make the site much more friendly for our supporters to learn more and take action on Appleseed’s issues, and for our clients to find the help - [New Video: Medicaid program a win-win for Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/12239) - We know Medicaid already works in Nebraska, helping children and low-income working families to see a doctor when they get sick. It works for our state’s economy too, with studies estimating every dollar spent on Medicaid eventually produces at least seven dollars for our local economy. Now, we have a great opportunity to embrace a - [Oscar’s Story: How a Voice Can Make a Difference](https://neappleseed.org/12267) - Oscar is 20 years old and works full-time at an Omaha customer service center, part-time at a local Walgreens, and on the side with a multimedia company. He lives with a roommate and two cats and enjoys sleeping in what little free time he has. By all appearances, he is a typical 20-year-old. When you - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12285) - Because of the snow storm Thursday, the Legislature canceled hearings for Feb. 21. Those hearings have been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 5 at 9:15 a.m. Appleseed did testify on a number of bills in committee last week Health Care Access LB 568 - In its original form, this bill would have required a restrictive licensing - [Accessible public records important for government accountability](https://neappleseed.org/12299) - Nebraska’s Open Records Act is an important safeguard for ordinary Nebraskans that helps to ensure that our government remains transparent, accountable and accessible. Indeed, it is important for government agencies to comply with requests to view public records with reasonable speed and at reasonable cost. That is why Appleseed is supporting LB 363, a bill - [Appleseed proud to support LB 577 for greater health care access for Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/12327) - If you’ve been a follower of Appleseed for very long at all, you will have gathered one of our biggest priorities is making sure every Nebraskan has the ability to see a doctor when they or their families become sick or injured. Yesterday, Appleseed was proud to testify in support of LB 577, Senator Kathy - [Join us for Appleseed’s 17th birthday!](https://neappleseed.org/12335) - This month, Appleseed turns 17 years old. And to celebrate 17 years of fighting for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans, I want to invite you to join us for a happy hour reception at Zen’s Lounge for cocktails and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. When: Wednesday, March 13 - 5pm to 7:30pm Where: Zen’s Lounge (122 - [Child care assistance bill would strengthen Nebraska families](https://neappleseed.org/12340) - Affordable child care is vital to allow families to work and to keep children safe. In Nebraska, the Child Care Subsidy Program provides assistance to low-income families that are working their way toward independence by helping cover the costs of childcare. Unfortunately, Nebraska ranks at the bottom of the country in income eligibility for the - [Grassroots Advocacy Training Friday in North Platte](https://neappleseed.org/12346) - The Nebraska Legislature is in session, and Nebraska Appleseed is partnering with the Center for Rural Affairs and Community Action of Nebraska to make sure you know about proposed legislation that impacts hard-working, low-income Nebraskans. We need you to stand up for affordable health care, small businesses and fair taxes in our state! Join us! - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12404) - A Good Opportunity and a Real Health Care Solution LB 577 - February 27 was a big day in the Legislature for health care when LB 577 - the bill that would implement the Affordable Care Act’s new Medicaid program in Nebraska - went in front of the Health and Human Services Committee. Appleseed testified - [Wage subsidy bill LB 368 a win-win for Nebraska businesses & employees](https://neappleseed.org/12411) - The great work ethic of Nebraska’s labor force is one of the most important drivers of our economy. LB 368, introduced by Senator Sue Crawford, would create opportunities for Nebraska businesses to hire new employees and grow the state’s economy through wage subsidies. “LB 368 creates a subsidized employment pilot program that creates new job - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - March 2013](https://neappleseed.org/12419) - In this March edition of “Appleseed in Action” Take Action on three important bills at the Legislature Appleseed at the Unicameral You can support Federal Immigration Reform Celebrate Appleseed’s 17th birthday Meet our new staff members Take Action on Three Important Bills at the Legislature Now is an important moment for YOU to take action - [Aid to Dependent Children rate must be raised to strengthen our families](https://neappleseed.org/12426) - Effectively addressing poverty is not only fundamental to the well-being of children and families in our community, it is also one of the keys to preventing the unnecessary entry of children into the foster care system. That is why Appleseed is proud to support LB 508, a bill introduced by Senator Kathy Campbell that would - [Voter Suppression Bill LB 381 undermines Nebraskans’ right to vote](https://neappleseed.org/12442) - LB 381, a voter suppression bill that restricts voting access, will be heard by the Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee today. Voting is an American right – and making voting harder is neither Constitutional, nor a Nebraska value. This bill mandates a restrictive and unnecessary voter identification system, puts a greater burden on our - [“It’s a house of pain in there.” A major new report on worker and food safety](https://neappleseed.org/12448) - Today, the Southern Poverty Law Center and Alabama Appleseed released Unsafe at These Speeds, a major new report that exposes the dangers poultry plants pose to consumer and worker health -- dangers likely to intensify under proposed regulatory changes for the industry. Modeled after Nebraska Appleseed’s 2009 meatpacking safety study, The Speed Kills You, this - [Voter suppression bill undermines Nebraskans’ right to vote](https://neappleseed.org/12459) - Voting is an American right – and making voting harder is not a Nebraska value. LB 381 mandates a restrictive and unnecessary voter identification system, puts a greater burden on our already overburdened election workers, and undermines our democracy by creating barriers to voting for many older Nebraskans who no longer drive, young voters and - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12483) - Here is your weekly Legislative Update from Nebraska Appleseed. Wage subsidy program a win-win for Nebraska businesses and workers LB 368 - This bill, introduced by Senator Sue Crawford, would create a subsidized employment pilot program within the Department of Health and Human Services, which would allow employers to grow their businesses and allow low-income - [Bill would combat Nebraska’s high level of food hardship](https://neappleseed.org/12486) - Recently, the Food Research Research and Action Center (FRAC) released a new report examining the national percentage of households facing a food hardship - not having enough money to buy the food they or their families need. According to the report ”Food Hardship in America 2012” Nebraska has a food hardship rate of 13.8 percent. - [TAKE ACTION: National call-in days for immigration reform!](https://neappleseed.org/12499) - Join the national call-in days for immigration reform! Make your call today or tomorrow! Call Congress at 877-848-8289 or text “NOW” to 787753. Join supporters across the country, and flex your muscle for common-sense immigration laws with a clear and direct roadmap to citizenship that support Nebraska families, businesses, and communities! As always, your message - [LB 309: Creating a more efficient public service delivery system](https://neappleseed.org/12506) - When the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) started the initiative called ACCESS Nebraska, the goal was to modernize service delivery in public programs by moving to a system with increased reliance on technology and fewer personal caseworkers. But, since its creation, clients have experienced many problems with the new system, including lost documents, - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12525) - Bills Coming out of Committee LB 577 - It was wonderful news for the health of Nebraska’s people and economy when this bill, which would implement the Affordable Care Act’s new Medicaid program in our state, was advanced out of the Health and Human Services Committee this week. LB 577 is a good opportunity and - [AARP survey shows majority of Nebraskans support new Medicaid program](https://neappleseed.org/12560) - A new survey released today conducted by AARP Nebraska shows the majority of Nebraskans support the new Medicaid program, implemented by LB 577, which would provide health care access to at least 54,000 uninsured people in our state. AARP Nebraska released the results of the survey at a press conference today at the State Capitol. - [Unsafe at These Speeds - Part 1](https://neappleseed.org/12569) - Note: For the next few weeks, we will be taking an in-depth look at the powerful new report from Southern Poverty Law Center and Alabama Appleseed, Unsafe at These Speeds, that exposes the dangers poultry plants pose to workers and consumers. This post will examine the first section of the report, which focuses on the - [Join Appleseed for free webinar on the ACA and Youth Formerly in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/12584) - On January 1, 2014 several important provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will start being enforced. Some of these provisions directly benefit former foster care youth so it is important for advocates and professionals working with youth in foster care to understand the pertinent eligibility criteria so they can successfully help youth access health - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12594) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. With action picking up on the floor - [Immigrants bring hard work, creative ideas to U.S. economy](https://neappleseed.org/12598) - Last week Marketplace Money, a public radio program focusing on business and the economy, highlighted the positive effects immigration has on our nation and our economy. Two immigrants, Mario Escobar, originally from El Salvador, and Jose Luis Zelaya, from Honduras, described the trials they have gone through in their pursuit of the American dream. Escobar, - [Young People ask State Senators to Extend Voluntary Services and Support to 21](https://neappleseed.org/12616) - On January 31, young people from Project Everlast joined Senator Amanda McGill and other advocates to speak out in support of LB 216 - the Young Adult Voluntary Services and Support Act. LB 216, introduced by Senator McGill, would remove barriers facing young people who age out of foster care by extending voluntary services and - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12623) - Take Action to Support Important Bills in Legislature Last week the Legislature did not debate any of Appleseed’s priority bills. But this week a key child welfare bill is on the agenda. So your senators need to hear from you on a number of important bills this week. Vital transition services for youth aging out - [More than 40 Nebraska organizations say now is the time for common-sense immigration laws](https://neappleseed.org/12630) - Creating a clear and inclusive path to citizenship is good for Nebraska families, communities, economy, and future As Nebraska’s members of Congress get ready to return to Washington, D.C., more than 40 Nebraska organizations gathered today to urge common-sense immigration laws that create a clear and inclusive path to citizenship for aspiring Americans. The organizations - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - April 2013](https://neappleseed.org/12633) - In this April edition of “Appleseed in Action” Take Action on Three Important Bills at the Legislature March Activity at the Unicameral Nebraska Organizations to Call for Immigration Reform Match Your Donation to Appleseed! Marcus Chaffee Joins Appleseed Take Action on Important Bills that Expand Opportunities for Nebraskans Now is an important moment for YOU - [Donate and match your gift!](https://neappleseed.org/12653) - Appleseed’s Development Director Nic Swiercek is running his first half-marathon on May 5 in the Lincoln Marathon and he could use your support! Nic set a goal of raising $1,300 ($100/mile) to support Appleseed’s mission fighting for justice and opportunity for all and to raise awareness about Appleseed’s campaign to expand access to health care - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12658) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. Services and Support to 21 advances to - [Wide variety of Nebraska perspectives call for immigration laws with path to citizenship](https://neappleseed.org/12666) - Last week, more than 40 Nebraska organizations gathered at the Nebraska State Capitol to urge common-sense immigration laws that create a clear and inclusive path to citizenship for aspiring Americans. These 40 institutions represented a wide range of Nebraska perspectives, including faith, business, labor, immigrant, civic, civil rights, rural, children and families. Appleseed was proud - [Nebraska delegation to attend A10 immigration rally in Washington](https://neappleseed.org/12676) - On Wednesday, thousands of people from across the country will come together in Washington, D.C., for the A10 Rally for Citizenship to call on Congress to pass modern, common-sense immigration laws that include a clear and inclusive concept of citizenship. Appleseed will accompany a Nebraska delegation of eight staff, partners, and friends to add our - [Medicaid Covers People in a Cost-Efficient Way](https://neappleseed.org/12709) - The new Medicaid program offers Nebraska a way to provide health care to tens of thousands of people in our state who need it most. Next week, lawmakers will debate LB 577, which would implement the new Medicaid program in Nebraska. But why Medicaid? Basically, because Medicaid is the most cost-effective means of insuring low-income - [U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Indian Child Welfare Case](https://neappleseed.org/12713) - Written with Lyndley Schlepp Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl. This will be the second time the U.S. Supreme Court has heard a case on the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) since the law’s enactment in 1978, and the decision is critically important for - [Unsafe at These Speeds - Part 2](https://neappleseed.org/12724) - For the next few weeks, we will continue to take an in-depth look at the powerful new report from Southern Poverty Law Center and Alabama Appleseed, Unsafe at These Speeds, that exposes the dangers poultry plants pose to workers and consumers. This post will examine the second section of the report, which focuses on how - [Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Senate Immigration Bill](https://neappleseed.org/12728) - Darcy Tromanhauser, Director of Nebraska Appleseed’s Immigrants & Communities Program, issued the following statement on today’s Senate immigration reform bill. “This is a historic moment as our country takes a long-overdue step toward modernizing our immigration laws,” Tromanhauser said. “This bipartisan bill would finally create a process for millions of aspiring Americans -- people who - [Project Everlast Takes on the Capitol](https://neappleseed.org/12744) - The last Sunday in March was no ordinary day. That morning, I arrived bright and early at a 4-H camp in the middle of a forest. Only one thing could possibly have been worth pulling myself out of bed at 7:30 a.m. on the weekend and driving down I-80 in semi-blizzard conditions: Project Everlast’s very - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12754) - New Medicaid program bill debated in Legislature LB 577, the bill to implement the Affordable Care Act’s new Medicaid option, took center stage in the Legislature this week. Senators engaged in day-long debate on April 16 and 17. LB 577 would provide affordable health care access to 54,000 Nebraskans while saving the state $2.4 million - [Harper’s Magazine goes undercover at Nebraska meatpacking plant](https://neappleseed.org/12759) - Over the weekend, the Lincoln Journal Star published an article about Tom Conover, an award-winning journalist, who went “undercover” as a USDA inspector in a Nebraska meatpacking plant and has recounted his experience in the May 2013 cover story for Harper’s Magazine. (Conover’s article, “The Way of All Flesh”, is available online with a Harper’s - [Free webinar on supportive services available for Nebraska students](https://neappleseed.org/12767) - Nebraska Appleseed invites you to attend our upcoming webinar regarding supportive services for students in Nebraska, Extra Credit: A Guide to Resources for Non-Traditional, Parenting, and Low-Income Learners on Thursday May 2 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. James Goddard, director of Appleseed’s Economic Justice and Health Care Access programs will give you the information - [Grassroots Advocacy Training – Friday, April 26th, 2013](https://neappleseed.org/12771) - Nebraska Appleseed and our friends at the Center for Rural Affairs are holding a Grassroots Advocacy Training in Syracuse tomorrow and we hope you can make it! Join us on Friday, April 26th from 10am-2:30pm. There will be a free lunch served at noon. The Nebraska Unicameral is discussing bills that will impact you. We - [Understanding how the new Medicaid program is a firm commitment](https://neappleseed.org/12774) - There was much hand-wringing earlier this week from opponents of LB 577, the bill that would implement the new, extended Medicaid program in Nebraska, when it was announced the federal government would be reducing its funding for our state’s existing Medicaid program by $8 million next year. Opponents would love to use this reduction as - [Every Young Person Deserves the Chance to Boomerang](https://neappleseed.org/12779) - Young adults returning to their parents’ home after living on their own is a pretty common occurrence nowadays. This back-and-forth movement has particularly increased in recent years - so much so that it’s spurred a new generational nickname: “The Boomerang Kids.” Although I would certainly no longer call myself a “kid,” I am not ashamed - [On Arbor Day, plant the seeds of justice](https://neappleseed.org/12782) - Today is a proud day for Nebraska, the home of Arbor Day and the notion that when we all work together planting and nurturing trees, we can truly create dramatic, positive changes to our landscape. At Nebraska Appleseed, we share that belief. When a group of Nebraskans comes together to plant and nurture the seeds - [Take Action to support accessible and high quality child care](https://neappleseed.org/12787) - Every Nebraska child should be safe while their parents are working, so affordable, quality child care is vital to allow our state’s families to be strong. You have a chance today to take action to strengthen working Nebraska families. Please call your senator and ask them to support LB 507, “The Step Up to Child - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12794) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. LB 240 - A bill introduced by - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - May 2013](https://neappleseed.org/12805) - In this May edition of “Appleseed in Action” Take Action to support Health Care and Child Welfare Bills April Activity at the Unicameral Federal Immigration Reform Save the Date for the 2013 Good Apple Awards Match your donation on May 16 for Give to Lincoln Day! Take Action on Important Bills that Expand Opportunities for - [CBPP paper shows Medicaid saves lives and dollars](https://neappleseed.org/12819) - A new policy paper from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities offers an excellent overview of Medicaid, the state-federal partnership program that provides health care coverage to millions of low-income children and adults. The data is clear - Medicaid is a cost-effective program that saves lives and money. Some of the highlights from the - [Debunking the ACA Rate Shock Myth](https://neappleseed.org/12830) - One of the myths that has been circulating about the impact of the Affordable Care Act is that it will force insurance rates to go up sharply. A new fact sheet from Community Catalyst dispels those myths. Some things to remember when considering the impact that the ACA will have on private insurance premiums: Because - [Take Action - Support Lincoln City Charter Amendment](https://neappleseed.org/12834) - Our public officials are best able to serve the public when there is a bond of trust between decision-makers and the people affected by those decisions. Limiting the possibility of conflicts of interest is important to protecting that relationship. The Lincoln City Charter Amendment on the ballot May 7 would foster trust and ensure integrity - [Success Beyond 18 launches to give young people a better path to success](https://neappleseed.org/12839) - Monday, young people with experience in foster care teamed up with legislators and child welfare experts from across the country to head to Washington D.C., and help launch Success Beyond 18, a national campaign of the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative to create a better path for young people transitioning from foster care to adulthood. - [Take Action - Help Medicaid bill get a vote!](https://neappleseed.org/12844) - A crucial piece of legislation is being obstructed in the Legislature. We need your help! LB 577, the bill that would extend Medicaid coverage, would help 54,000 uninsured, working Nebraskans get access to health care. It would provide security to our rural hospitals, our working families, and our veterans. It is beneficial to our economy, - [Make your voice heard on Facebook and Twitter to help bring Medicaid bill to a vote](https://neappleseed.org/12851) - Today, we’re asking all our supporters to take a moment to help bring LB 577 to a vote and help 54,000 uninsured, working Nebraskans to get health care coverage while returning $2.3 billion to our state’s economy. A small group of state senators are preventing this bill from coming up for a vote. That is - [Rally at the Capitol! We deserve a vote on LB 577.](https://neappleseed.org/12858) - With a small group of opponents obstructing a bill in the Legislature that will help our working families get access to health care and boost our state’s economy, it’s time to make your voice heard! Join us on the west steps of the Nebraska State Capitol on Wednesday, May 15 at 5:30 for a public - [Free public presentation on the Affordable Care Act in Omaha - May 10](https://neappleseed.org/12873) - Join us in Omaha on Friday, May 10 for a free presentation on the Affordable Care Act and the new Medicaid program being debated in the Legislature. This program is hosted by First United Methodist Church - Omaha. Nebraska Appleseed attorney Jerusha Hancock will answer your questions, tell you how the new health care reform - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12881) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. LB 195 - (the mainline budget bill) - [Match your gift to Appleseed on May 16!](https://neappleseed.org/12884) - At Appleseed, we believe justice isn’t just for some of us. It’s for all of us. Whether we’re in the courthouse, at the statehouse, or in the community we don’t stop working for justice and opportunity for all. I invite you to join us in our efforts and make a donation to Appleseed this Thursday, - [Rally at the Capitol tomorrow! We deserve a vote on LB 577.](https://neappleseed.org/12892) - The politics of obstruction is not the way we make policy in Nebraska. But, a small group of senators is preventing a vote on a bill in the Legislature that will help our working families get access to health care and boost our state’s economy. Make your voice heard tomorrow! Join us on the west - [Rally at the Capitol today! We deserve a vote on Medicaid bill.](https://neappleseed.org/12898) - Today is the day to make your voice heard and stand with 54,000 uninsured Nebraskans! Join us on the west steps of the Nebraska State Capitol today at 5:30 for a public rally to show state senators you believe LB 577 deserves a vote! A small group of state senators is blocking a vote on - [Match your gift to Appleseed TODAY!](https://neappleseed.org/12905) - Today is the day! Give a gift to Appleseed at this link any time before midnight and your gift will be matched to a $200,000 challenge match pool! This is one of the best opportunities to join us and amplify our efforts fighting for justice and opportunity for all! Give to Lincoln Day, organized by - [Crowd rallies at Capitol to urge senators to bring Medicaid bill to a vote](https://neappleseed.org/12921) - There are days when we at Nebraska Appleseed are especially proud of the work we do and the wonderful friends, partners, and supporters who we stand with. Yesterday was one of those days when 300 supporters gathered at the State Capitol to show their support for LB 577, the bill that would extend Medicaid to - [Educational opportunity bill signed into law, will help low-income families become secure](https://neappleseed.org/12931) - Education is one of the best paths out of poverty. Indeed, literacy, GED credentials, and other basic education skills are absolutely essential for economic independence. The Nebraska Legislature made strides towards making education more accessible by passing a bill that helps improve educational opportunities for low-income families. LB 240, a bill sponsored by Senator John - [Optimism from House announcement of immigration bill](https://neappleseed.org/12935) - Appleseed is very encouraged by news that a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives has reached an agreement in principle on immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship for aspiring Americans. While we await the details of the agreement, the announcement marks yet another major breakthrough. Combined with the progress being - [Senate and House Farm Bills Include Drastic, Harmful Cuts to SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/12941) - Right now, the U.S. Congress is making important decisions about funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Funding for SNAP is included in the Farm Bill, a comprehensive piece of federal legislation authorizing and regulating funding for most federal farm and food policies. Congress reauthorizes the Farm Bill every five years. Last week, the - [Take Action TODAY: Remove barriers facing youth who age out of foster care](https://neappleseed.org/12946) - Nebraska’s current foster care system results in poor outcomes for too many young people who age out of foster care. We miss out on their human potential and a stronger workforce because of the barriers they face in becoming successful adults. But we have a chance to remove those barriers TODAY when the Legislature is - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12951) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. LB 99 - This bill, sponsored by - [One Step Closer to a Bright Future](https://neappleseed.org/12958) - Groups of young Nebraskans waiting in the Capitol lobby to speak with senators has become a regular occurrence this legislative session when LB 216, the bill to extend voluntary services and support to age 21 for young people who age out of foster care, is a topic of discussion. Tuesday was no different, with members - [Senate Judiciary Committee advances immigration bill with path to citizenship](https://neappleseed.org/12966) - This week the Senate Judiciary Committee put America one step closer to a modern, common-sense immigration system by advancing S. 744 out of committee with bipartisan support on a vote of 13-5. From the Washington Post: Senate panel approves sweeping immigration reform bill In the words of committee chairman Sen. Patrick Leahy who led the - [Legislative Update](https://neappleseed.org/12969) - Green Lights In the Capitol’s legislative chamber, there is a large sign listing each Senator’s name. When a Senator votes in favor of a bill, a light next to their name turns bright green. “Green Lights” highlights the passage of bills that advance justice and opportunity in Nebraska. LB 216 - The “Young Adult Voluntary - [Take Action: Thank senators for passing LB 216](https://neappleseed.org/12973) - Today, the Legislature passed LB 216, the bill to extend voluntary services and support to age 21 for young people who age out of foster care. The bill passed 44-2 on Final Reading. This is wonderful news and will impact hundreds of young Nebraskans. Thank you for all you have done to make this happen! - [Diverse Nebraska groups urge Congressional delegation to support common-sense immigration reform](https://neappleseed.org/12978) - Deliver flower baskets during recess week saying “Help Nebraska Flourish” With Nebraska’s members of Congress back home during this week’s recess, a wide variety of Nebraska organizations are telling our U.S. senators and representatives now is the time for a modern immigration system that creates stability for families and businesses, includes a clear process for - [LB 216 will make a difference – thank you](https://neappleseed.org/12982) - Yesterday, the Nebraska Legislature passed LB 216 on a vote of 44-2. LB 216 will allow Nebraska to join more than a dozen other states in taking an option under the federal Fostering Connections Act to create a program of voluntary services and support to age 21 for young people who age out of foster - [Day of Action - FB, tweet & call for immigration reform TODAY](https://neappleseed.org/12988) - Nebraska’s U.S. senators and congressmen are back at home this week for the Memorial Day recess. Next week, they'll return to DC where the bipartisan immigration reform bill (S.744) will be debated and voted on in the Senate, and discussion is also expected to begin in the House. Today is a day you can help - [Child Welfare Team tunes in and reviews new foster care TV show](https://neappleseed.org/13003) - This week, the television network ABC Family aired a new show called “The Fosters” about a same-sex couple and their family of biological, adopted, and foster children. Nebraska Appleseed’s child welfare team tuned in to watch the episode and were curious about how the show would portray some of the issues that children in foster - [Summer Food 101 - What you can do to fight childhood hunger in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/13011) - Making sure Nebraska’s children have enough to eat all year round is one of the biggest responsibilities we have as a community. Many people are surprised to learn 42 percent of Nebraska children access the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program. However, many kids can’t access these meals in the summer when they’re not in - [Reviewing “The Fosters” - Playing by the (unwritten) rules](https://neappleseed.org/13016) - As mentioned in our last blog, this week’s premier of the new ABC Family television show “The Fosters” covered a diverse range of topics, including same-sex parenting, multi-ethnic family dynamics, unreported foster home abuse, placement/school instability, the strength of sibling relationships, and an unhealthy meeting with a biological parent. Basically everything but the kitchen sink. - [In Falls City, feeding children in the summer is a labor of love](https://neappleseed.org/13020) - Note: Thousands of children in Nebraska are food insecure and struggle to get enough to eat in the summer months when they are out of school. Summer Food Service Program sites across the state do amazing work helping feed kids each year to make sure they don’t go hungry. During “National Summer Food Service Program - [Two bills passed this session encourage government transparency and accountability](https://neappleseed.org/13034) - During the last couple weeks of the legislative session, the Nebraska Legislature passed two bills that seek to increase the accountability and transparency of Nebraska’s state government. While these bills haven’t received as much public attention as some other bills, we wanted to highlight them because we think they will go a long way to - [2013 Legislative Session Year-in-Review](https://neappleseed.org/13038) - The 2013 session of the Nebraska Legislature came to a close on June 5. All of our program staff worked hard to further policies that will build a stronger Nebraska. While we will still have to fight to insure 54,000 Nebraska’s with the new Medicaid program, we are grateful that several of Nebraska Appleseed’s priority - [Lincoln summer food organizers have high goals for feeding kids](https://neappleseed.org/13062) - Note: Thousands of children in Nebraska are food insecure and struggle to get enough to eat in the summer months when they are out of school. Summer Food Service Program sites across the state do amazing work helping feed kids each year to make sure they don’t go hungry. During “National Summer Food Service Program - [Nebraska Participation in Summer Meals for Children Continues to Fall Short](https://neappleseed.org/13066) - When the school year ends, many hungry children lose access to the school breakfasts and lunches they receive during the school year. Meals provided through the Summer Food Service Program play an important role in making sure these children have access to nutritious food once the school year ends. This program is federally reimbursed by - [Partnership puts summer food site on wheels in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/13087) - Note: Thousands of children in Nebraska are food insecure and struggle to get enough to eat in the summer months when they are out of school. Summer Food Service Program sites across the state do amazing work helping feed kids each year to make sure they don’t go hungry. During “National Summer Food Service Program - [Take Action - Path to citizenship for immigrants protects children](https://neappleseed.org/13095) - Nationwide, an estimated 4.5 million children who are U.S. citizens live in families where one or more of their parents are undocumented. As Nebraska children’s, family, and health advocates highlighted in a recent press conference (see below), these children will grow up to be our future family members, neighbors and co-workers – and their health - [Farm bills contain SNAP cuts that will harm working families](https://neappleseed.org/13098) - On Monday, June 10, the U.S. Senate passed its Farm Bill by a vote of 66-27. The Senate bill, a comprehensive piece of legislation setting many of our nation’s farm and food policies, includes a huge cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Specifically, the Senate bill cuts $4.1 billion from SNAP over ten - [Nebraska immigrant documentary screening in Lincoln Sunday](https://neappleseed.org/13107) - Meet The Quilted Conscience director Sunday at the Ross Documentary also airs statewide Friday on NET A locally produced documentary about the welcoming of cultural diversity in Nebraska will air this weekend in Lincoln with a chance for you to participate. The Quilted Conscience will be screened at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Mary Riepma - [How to start a Summer Food Service Program site to feed children in your community](https://neappleseed.org/13112) - Note: Thousands of children in Nebraska are food insecure and struggle to get enough to eat in the summer months when they are out of school. Summer Food Service Program sites across the state do amazing work helping feed kids each year to make sure they don’t go hungry. This is the conclusion of our - [The Fosters and the Sibling Placement in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/13116) - As promised, the child welfare team tuned in for The Fosters again this week, and for a second consecutive week we were fairly impressed by the show (and equally so by the show’s soundtrack, Missy Higgins and Brandi Carlile anyone?). Although I was occasionally distracted by the unmistakable likeness of Callie’s brother Jude to Freaks - [Omaha women still struggle in poverty](https://neappleseed.org/13132) - A recent Women’s Fund research report “How Are Women Doing in Omaha?” highlighted several concerning statistics about women in poverty here in Nebraska. The report found women are more likely to have incomes below the Federal Poverty Level and African-American women were four times as likely as Caucasian women to live in poverty. Nearly two-thirds - [Appleseed exhibit featured in Marketplace of Community Values](https://neappleseed.org/13141) - Nebraska Appleseed was honored when we were offered the opportunity several months ago to participate in a new art exhibit at the Sheldon Museum of Art on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. The “Marketplace of Community Values” is a unique opportunity for 12 local nonprofit organizations to partner with nationally acclaimed artists to create displays - [Reviewing “The Fosters” - Educational Stability in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/13151) - On The Fosters this week, there were several intriguing plotlines that arose throughout the episode. We are going to narrow it down a bit and focus on Jude and the big test he had to take to remain enrolled at Anchor Beach. At the beginning of this week’s episode, Lena was informed that Jude would - [Your voice critical TODAY on historic immigration reform](https://neappleseed.org/13157) - Thanks to those who already tried to call! The original phone number was not connecting with Nebraska senators. Please use the corrected phone number below! Last night, the bipartisan Senate immigration bill passed a first critical test and vote. There will be a final vote on the bill by the Senate as early as Thursday. - [Civil Rights Groups Urge Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to Examine Dangerous Work Conditions in U.S. Poultry, Meatpacking Plants](https://neappleseed.org/13160) - USDA Secretary Vilsack on Notice to Protect Workers WASHINGTON – A coalition of civil rights groups urged the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights today to address human rights violations in U.S. poultry and meatpacking plants – violations that are the result of federal policies failing to protect the workers responsible for making the United States - [Nebraskans call for U.S. Senators to vote YES on immigration bill](https://neappleseed.org/13171) - Today, a large, diverse collection of Nebraskans gathered at the Roman L. Hruska Federal Court House in Omaha to urge Nebraska U.S. Senators Mike Johanns and Deb Fischer to vote “Yes” on S.744 -- the historic bipartisan Senate immigration bill -- to create a clear and attainable process for residency and eventual citizenship for aspiring - [Senate Immigration Bill Passes with Bipartisan Support, One Step Closer to Common-Sense Laws for the Future](https://neappleseed.org/13184) - Today is a historic day for all of us. Immigration is an important part of the fabric of our families, communities, and economy,” Gould said. “Passage of this bill at long last moves us toward modernizing our antiquated immigration laws to create a strong foundation for Nebraska’s families, our communities, our economy and our future. - [Nebraskans celebrate historic Senate immigration reform bill with path to citizenship](https://neappleseed.org/13190) - Thursday, the U.S. Senate passed a historic immigration reform bill with a path to citizenship that marks a huge step toward fixing our outdated immigration system in a way that reflects Nebraska values and strengthens our state’s families and businesses. The bill passed with large bipartisan support by a vote of 68-32. Appleseed joins thousands - [Voting rights at issue in Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder](https://neappleseed.org/13198) - The History The Voting Rights Act was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 (during the Jim Crow era) to protect minority voters against discrimination and practices meant to make voting more difficult, such as poll taxes, literacy tests, and intimidation at the ballot box. The legislation gave the federal government, and - [Take Action: Senate passes immigration reform bill. Now, it's the House's turn.](https://neappleseed.org/13228) - The U.S. Senate took a great step toward fixing our outdated immigration laws last week when it voted overwhelmingly to pass a historic immigration bill with a path to citizenship for aspiring Americans. The bipartisan vote was 68-32! Unfortunately, Senator Johanns and Senator Fischer voted against the bill. On the same day, more than 40 - [Support Appleseed in July with your morning cup of coffee](https://neappleseed.org/13236) - It’s not every day that your cup of coffee can support justice for all, but it can during the month of July! Our friends at Urban Abbey, a nonprofit coffee shop, bookstore, and faith community in Omaha, selected Nebraska Appleseed to be its nonprofit community partner of the month for the month of July! Stop - [Supreme Court recognizes importance of diversity in Fisher ruling](https://neappleseed.org/13240) - Last week, in its decision in Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin, the U.S. Supreme Court reaffirmed the critical principle that universities may use racial and ethnic diversity as one factor of many to select qualified candidates as part of a carefully crafted admissions policy. This ruling is a victory for diversity, equal opportunity, - [“The Fosters” - Issues of Race and Culture in Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/13248) - On The Fosters this week, the two common themes that arose throughout the episode were race, ethnicity, and culture. This week, we are going to focus on Marianna’s quinceañera, a Latin American celebration of a girl’s transition into womanhood at age 15. During this week’s show, Steph and Lena were preparing to throw a quinceañera - [U.S. Supreme Court Issues Opinion in Indian Child Welfare Act Case](https://neappleseed.org/13264) - Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a 5-4 decision in the case Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl. This marks only the second time the U.S. Supreme Court has heard a case involving the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) since the law’s enactment in 1978. The opinion, authored by Justice Samuel Alito, focuses on - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - July 2013](https://neappleseed.org/13270) - In this jam-packed July edition of “Appleseed in Action”: Nebraskans celebrate passage of Senate immigration reform bill Civil rights groups call for investigation into meatpacking plants Recap of 2013 Nebraska legislative session Lincoln recognized as official “Welcoming City” Summer Food programs feed children out of school Announcing our 2013 Good Apple Awards Honorees! Appleseed events - [Picnics, Fireworks and Phone calls: This Independence Day, Stand Up For Justice](https://neappleseed.org/13287) - Like many of you, Nebraska Appleseed is taking this Independence Day to celebrate our country with our friends and family. There will be picnics, enjoying the outdoors, and fireworks. We will be taking time to remember what makes the United States a great place to live: the freedom and opportunity afforded to us, the sacrifices - [Join us for an Immigration Reform Advocacy Night Thursday in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/13296) - The U.S. Senate recently passed a bill to fix our outdated immigration system and create a clear process for citizenship for aspiring Americans. Debate now moves to the House of Representatives, which is expected to unveil its own bill this summer. We’re closer than ever to creating a workable immigration system. But we need your - [Take Action! Protect SNAP for Nebraska children and families!](https://neappleseed.org/13305) - SNAP is at risk - We need your help! No Nebraskan should go hungry. However, nearly 14 percent of Nebraskans were food insecure in 2012. This means about 250,000 people in our state struggled to get enough to eat, including 80,000 children who received SNAP benefits. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital - [You’re Invited - What to Expect from the Affordable Care Act](https://neappleseed.org/13337) - Do you work with an organization that serves low-income families? Do you have questions about how the Affordable Care Act will affect the people you serve and how they can enroll in health coverage this fall? Join Appleseed and Enroll Nebraska on Thursday, July 25 at Urban Abbey for a Q&A on the Affordable Care - [Split of Food Assistance from House Farm Bill a serious concern for thousands of Nebraskans facing hunger](https://neappleseed.org/13348) - In response to the passage of the House’s version of the Farm Bill, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould, issued the following statement: "It is unfortunate that today the House passed a Farm Bill that did not include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provisions. This raises serious concerns about the future of SNAP, which - [Nebraskans show passion for Immigration Reform at Urban Abbey](https://neappleseed.org/13370) - Appleseed is always striving to engage people to take action in their community to make Nebraska a better and stronger place to live. We know many Nebraskans are passionate in their support of immigration reform to fix our outdated immigration laws, but it was exciting to see the enthusiasm at our recent Immigration Reform Advocacy - [Immigrants breathe new life into communities](https://neappleseed.org/13385) - A recent article by Immigration Impact gives a telling portrayal of the benefits that immigrants bring to their new homes - while highlighting new local efforts across the country to focus on “welcoming” initiatives that create strong communities. New immigrants “breathe new life into communities” and help create a vibrant social, economic, and cultural environment. - [Celebrate a child welfare success story Thursday](https://neappleseed.org/13390) - The passage of “The Young Adult Voluntary Services and Support Act” - LB 216 - was a huge victory this year for young people who age out of foster care, as well as child welfare advocates and supporters. This Thursday, you’re invited to join Appleseed and other child welfare advocates at Urban Abbey to learn - [Appleseed CWT takes on D.C. for national children’s conference](https://neappleseed.org/13400) - Last Thursday, Nebraska Appleseed’s Child Welfare Team (AKA Sarah, Robbie, and Amy) took to the skies and headed to Washington, D.C., for the American Bar Association’s 15th Bi-Annual National Conference on Children and the Law. The two-day conference focused on emerging policy and systemic reform related to child welfare and offered workshops in the areas - [An immigrant’s search for the American Dream in Grand Island](https://neappleseed.org/13500) - Years ago, author Philip Caputo stood in one corner of the United States and marveled at the great expanse of our country. America is filled with people from every part of the world, and Caputo was inspired to set out across the U.S. to find out what unites our vast and diverse nation? That question - [You’re Invited: “What to Expect from the Affordable Care Act”](https://neappleseed.org/13539) - Do you work with an organization that serves low-income families? Do you have questions about how the Affordable Care Act will affect the people you serve and how they can enroll in health coverage this fall? Join Appleseed and Enroll Nebraska this Thursday morning at Urban Abbey for a coffee and Q&A on the Affordable - [You’re Invited - Omaha Welcoming Community Dialogue](https://neappleseed.org/13548) - Omaha is a stronger, safer, and better community when we welcome people from all backgrounds and places of origin. You are invited Monday evening to join Nebraska Appleseed, Inclusive Communities, and You're Welcome in Omaha for a dialogue about making Omaha a more welcoming community for all people. What: You’re Welcome In Omaha Community Dialogue - [“The Fosters” - Immigration and Foster Care](https://neappleseed.org/13553) - Note: The new ABC Family series “The Fosters” portrays a same-sex couple and their family of biological, adopted, and foster children. Appleseed’s child welfare team will provide periodic reviews of episodes and discuss the real-life issues raised by the show. Hello everyone, our child welfare team is back from our recent trip to Washington D.C., - [Eleven Brothers helped immigrant children form new family on soccer field](https://neappleseed.org/13632) - Eleven Brothers was more than the name of their soccer team. “We are all brothers,” the coach says. “We are all one. We respect each other. We love each other as brothers.” The Lincoln Journal Star tells the inspiring story of how these young soccer players who came to Nebraska from Vietnam, Cambodia, Kosovo, Sudan, - [Appleseed joins Rebuild Nebraska to protect The Good Life](https://neappleseed.org/13649) - A critical debate is underway in Nebraska about our current tax system. The Legislature created the Nebraska Tax Modernization Committee to examine these issues. This group, composed of 14 state senators, will hold meetings the rest of the year to decide what, if any, changes need to be made to our state’s tax structure. As - [Federal courts strike down discriminatory, anti-immigrant laws](https://neappleseed.org/13668) - Last week, we were pleased to see that two federal courts of appeals -- the Fifth and Third Circuit -- ruled that discriminatory, anti-immigrant ordinances in Farmers Branch, Texas, and Hazleton, Pennsylvania, were unconstitutional. Both circuit courts found that the ordinance was preempted (overridden) by federal law because they were aimed at excluding immigrants within - [TAKE ACTION - Support immigration reform at Town Hall meetings with Nebraska congressional delegation](https://neappleseed.org/13691) - Now is the time to make your voice heard on a common-sense immigration system that keeps Nebraska families together, strengthens our economy, and reflects our values! Our members of Congress are back in Nebraska for five weeks of recess starting this week. They are holding a series of town hall meetings throughout August to hear - [New Study: Risky tax plan likely would raise taxes for most Nebraskans](https://neappleseed.org/13698) - Today, OpenSky Policy Institute, a nonpartisan Nebraska organization dedicated to fiscal research and analysis, released results of a new study on what a large cut in the state’s income tax could mean for our state’s economy. The results indicate Nebraska would send a large chunk of revenue out of state if it implemented a risky - [Medicaid expansion would cut number of uninsured Nebraskans in half](https://neappleseed.org/13719) - We’ve been saying for the last couple years how effective the Affordable Care Act will be at allowing more Nebraskans to get access to health care, and we continue to be a strong supporter of LB 577, the bill to expand Medicaid in our state. Last week, a pair of reports were released that validated - [Appleseed In Action - News and Events for August 2013](https://neappleseed.org/13724) - In this August edition of “Appleseed in Action” Take Action to support common-sense immigration reform Rebuild Nebraska pushes for sustainable tax structure Protect SNAP for Nebraska families and children Alex Gibilisco joins Immigrants & Communities Meet our Law Clerks and Interns Appleseed at the Maha Music Festival August is a crucial month to ask your - [Nebraska children ask Congressmen “Keep Our Families Together”](https://neappleseed.org/13757) - One of the most damaging consequences of our outdated immigration system is the havoc it wreaks on families. Nationwide, an estimated 4.5 million children who are U.S. citizens have a parent without immigration status, including thousands here in Nebraska. Kids are more likely to suffer physical and emotional health problems and not do as well - [Young Nebraska immigration advocates ask Rep. Jeff Fortenberry “Keep our Nebraska families together.”](https://neappleseed.org/13779) - One of the most damaging consequences of our outdated immigration system is the havoc it wreaks on families. Nationwide, an estimated 4.5 million children who are U.S. citizens have a parent without immigration papers, including thousands here in Nebraska. Today, Nebraska families, youth, and faith leaders delivered children’s drawings and constituent postcards calling on Rep. - [More ADC participants can now use Education Activities to meet Work Requirements](https://neappleseed.org/13790) - Last week, Nebraska took a major step forward in supporting the educational needs of adults making low incomes. With LB 240 now in effect, all parents in the Aid to Dependent Children (ADC) Program can meet their full work requirement by participating in GED, English as a Second Language, or Adult Basic Education programs. In - [Brief filed to 8th Circuit Court to reconsider Fremont anti-immigrant ordinance](https://neappleseed.org/13824) - Earlier this week, an amicus brief written by Jenner & Block and Latino Justice on behalf of a number of national Latino organizations and Nebraska Appleseed, was filed to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals asking the court to reconsider its ruling on Fremont’s anti-immigrant ordinance. The brief details the discriminatory and devastating effects the - [You're Invited - Bibles, Badges, and Business Immigration Talk](https://neappleseed.org/13829) - August is a crucial month for fixing our country’s antiquated immigration system in a way that’s best for Nebraska’s families, communities, economy, and future! You’re invited this Wednesday, August 21 to attend an immigration roundtable discussion in Omaha held by the Bibles, Badges, and Business for Immigration Reform (BBB) Network. BBB is a nationwide - [Nebraskans support fixing immigration system at Maha Music Festival](https://neappleseed.org/13835) - Saturday, Appleseed was proud to take part in the Maha Music Festival Community Campus for the second straight year. The Community Campus gives Nebraska nonprofits a chance to meet festival goers and educate them on the important work being done in the state. At Appleseed’s table, concert goers were able to play our immigration board - [Update on Services and Support for Young Adults](https://neappleseed.org/13848) - As you may recall, the Young Adult Voluntary Services and Support Act was passed by the Nebraska Legislature and signed into law in June. This law creates a young adult-driven, age-appropriate system of services and support to age 21 for young people who age out of foster care. Although the program won’t be officially begin - [The ACA has good news for young people and rural residents](https://neappleseed.org/13851) - Two new reports released this week promise relief from high premiums and the anxiety that comes from being uninsured once all provisions of the Affordable Care Act take effect January 1, 2014. The Center For Rural Affairs points out that rural Nebraskans will especially benefit from the premium tax credits and cost sharing subsidies that - [“Bibles, Badges, and Business” brings diverse perspectives to immigration discussion](https://neappleseed.org/13855) - Wednesday morning, a crowd of attendees in Omaha was treated to a well-informed discussion of how fixing our outdated immigration system would strengthen Nebraska’s communities and businesses. Faith, legal, and business leaders took part in a community forum organized by Bibles, Badges, and Business For Immigration Reform - a nationwide network of leaders from a - [Nebraska youth and families ask Rep. Lee Terry “Keep Nebraska families together.”](https://neappleseed.org/13886) - OMAHA -- One of the most damaging consequences of our outdated immigration system is the havoc it wreaks on families. Nationwide, an estimated 4.5 million children who are U.S. citizens have a parent without immigration papers, including thousands here in Nebraska. Today, Nebraska families, youth, and faith leaders delivered children’s drawings and constituent postcards calling - [House bill expected to propose damaging SNAP cuts, will harm Nebraska families](https://neappleseed.org/13903) - Hunger impacts many of our friends and neighbors here in Nebraska. According to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, 13.3 percent of households in our state are food insecure. This population includes working families, children, senior citizens, disabled individuals, and even low-income veterans. Thankfully, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides a vital support - [Take Action - Support path to citizenship at immigration events in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/13909) - Our country’s outdated immigration laws are separating Nebraska families while creating instability and uncertainty for businesses and communities. Next week is the last week of recess and an important time to take action as our members of Congress get ready to return to Washington. Take action next week by attending several events in Omaha. Lend - [Civil Rights Groups Urge OSHA, USDA to Protect Poultry, Meatpacking Plant Workers](https://neappleseed.org/13916) - Workers Suffer Injuries, Illnesses Due to Punishing Processing Line Speeds A coalition of civil rights groups filed a formal petition today urging the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to better protect workers in poultry and meatpacking plants where federal policies allow workers to operate in hazardous - [New USDA data show 1 in 7 Nebraska households struggle with hunger](https://neappleseed.org/13927) - According to new data released Wednesday, 1 in 7 Nebraska households struggle against hunger. The statistics, compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service, show 13.4 percent of Nebraska households struggled with hunger on average in the years 2010-2012 according to the USDA’s annual report on food insecurity. More than 48.9 million - [Details emerge about dangerous House proposal to drastically cut food assistance](https://neappleseed.org/13936) - Last week, we told you about newly released data that shows 1 in 7 Nebraska households struggle with hunger, while at the same time, the House of Representatives will introduce a bill this month that will slash $40 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps thousands of working families and children in - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - September 2013](https://neappleseed.org/13946) - In this September edition of “Appleseed in Action” Nebraskans urge congressmen “Keep Our Families Together” during recess Drastic SNAP cuts threaten Nebraska families and children Appleseed petitions OSHA to protect meatpacking and poultry workers Enroll Nebraska prepares to help thousands enroll in health care coverage Legislature Tax Modernization Committee to hold public meetings 2013 Good - [Take Action - Add your voice to Nebraska tax discussion](https://neappleseed.org/13947) - Our state’s tax system affects every Nebraska family, and changes in tax policy can have big implications especially to families that make low incomes. To make sure our tax system is fair for our state’s lowest-earning families, Appleseed is keeping a close eye on the discussion about possible changes to Nebraska’s tax system made by - [Health insurance marketplace provide more options for seniors](https://neappleseed.org/13950) - As a New York Times article points out, the new health insurance marketplaces created by the Affordable Care Act offer those who are nearing retirement age more options. Currently, someone who might be contemplating retirement might choose to delay until they are eligible for Medicare at age 65. Those who retire prior to age 65 - [2013 Good Apple Awards Honorees - Introducing Justin Kemerling: the Milo Mumgaard Emerging Leader Award](https://neappleseed.org/13953) - Appleseed’s annual Good Apple Awards allow Appleseed to recognize people who do outstanding work advancing justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans, and over the next few weeks, we will be introducing you to our 2013 honorees. This year’s event on October 10, 2013 at the Livestock Exchange Building in Omaha is just a month away, - [You’re Invited - Take Your Place at the Table](https://neappleseed.org/13960) - In the 1970’s the United States had nearly wiped out hunger in our country. So, why are almost 50 million Americans struggling with hunger today? Why are more than 23.5 million kids and teenagers overweight or obese? What triggers and connects these trends? Come to a free showing of “A Place at the Table” and - [Take Action: Oppose dangerous House proposal to slash food assistance](https://neappleseed.org/13963) - No Nebraskan should have to go hungry. But, this week the House of Representatives will introduce a bill that would slash $40 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps), which helps nearly 180,000 people in Nebraska - a large proportion of them children - get enough to eat. We are urging - [Nebraskans to celebrate National Welcoming Week](https://neappleseed.org/13989) - A new and growing chorus of voices across the country - from mayors to business owners to everyday residents - recognize the contributions that immigrants bring to our communities and are developing comprehensive efforts to welcome them. This week, from September 15th to the 22nd, this chorus will grow as immigrants and U.S.-born individuals come - [Immigration Reform Summer: Now it’s time for House action](https://neappleseed.org/14055) - This was the summer of immigration reform in Nebraska and around the country. While our congressmen were back in Nebraska during the August recess, they heard loud and clear across the state Nebraskans are tired of seeing our families and communities harmed by outdated immigration laws. Community, faith, business, youth, and immigrant leaders attended town - [Nebraska Appleseed statement opposing damaging House bill to cut SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/14070) - Nebraska Appleseed Statement on Passage of House “Nutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act” LINCOLN -- Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the House of Representatives' “Nutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act,” (H.R. 3102) passed by the House on Thursday. “SNAP helps Nebraskans feed their families when they face hard - [Resources ready to help as we countdown to Health Insurance Open Enrollment](https://neappleseed.org/14076) - Open enrollment is just around the corner. Beginning October 1, many of those who are uninsured and don’t have access to health care coverage through their employer can purchase coverage in the new health insurance marketplace. And, in fact, a new study suggests almost half of those eligible for coverage in the new marketplace will - [Introducing the 2013 Good Apple Award Honorees - The Roots of Justice Award](https://neappleseed.org/14083) - On October 10, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2013 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 - [The End of the Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool](https://neappleseed.org/14129) - Beginning October 1, those who have been denied health insurance coverage because of a pre-existing condition will be able to sign up for coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s new health insurance Marketplace. That coverage will begin January 1, 2014. Until now, the Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool in Nebraska (or CHIP) has been the only - [Introducing the 2013 Seeds of Justice Award honoree - Justice for Our Neighbors](https://neappleseed.org/14132) - On October 10, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2013 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 - [Introducing the 2013 Jim Wolf Equal Justice Award honoree - Sen. John Harms](https://neappleseed.org/14135) - On October 10, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Nebraskans who have stood up for justice and opportunity for all at the 2013 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 Jim - [Know your options in the new health insurance Marketplace](https://neappleseed.org/14140) - The new health insurance marketplace opens on October 1 and will offer a great opportunity to understand new health insurance options, shop around for the best prices and benefits, and choose the plan that’s best for you and your family, even if you have health care coverage already. What You Should Know You don't have - [Appleseed intern learns rewarding lessons in Washington, D.C.](https://neappleseed.org/14146) - NOTE: Iliana Panameno is a former Nebraska Appleseed intern who is now a graduate student at the Boston University School of Social Work. This summer, I had the opportunity to intern for SCAN of Northern Virginia, through my participation in the Institute of Philanthropy and Voluntary Services. I always knew I wanted to work towards - [New USDA poultry rule poses great risk to food and workers’ safety](https://neappleseed.org/14152) - Last week, a coalition of worker and food safety advocates and allies gathered in front of the White House and rolled out a petition that contained over 500,000 names of people from all over the country who strongly oppose the USDA’s proposed poultry rule. This dangerous rule would increase the already high speed of the - [Government shutdown could have consequences for Nebraska families with low incomes](https://neappleseed.org/14155) - As you likely know by now, Congress has not been able to come to an agreement to continue to fund many activities and programs. That means on Tuesday, the federal government was shut down. Although many public benefits programs will be able to keep operating because they currently are able to access funding from the - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - October 2013](https://neappleseed.org/14161) - In this October edition of “Appleseed in Action” 2013 Good Apple Awards a week away! Government shutdown may affect public programs Health care Marketplace now open Oct. 12 immigration event House passes drastic SNAP cuts that threaten Nebraska families and children Tax Modernization Committee holds public hearings 2013 Good Apple Awards on Thursday, October 10 - ["Valiant Voices: Portraits of Strength" opens tonight in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/14165) - Tonight, you’re invited for a first look at the new exhibit “Valiant Voices: Portraits of Strength” at the First Friday art walk in Omaha’s historic Benson neighborhood. “Valiant Voices” is a special photo project that cuts through the clutter and stereotypes of what you think you might know about what it means to live an - [March and rally in Omaha Saturday for updated immigration laws](https://neappleseed.org/14174) - Saturday is a huge day for Nebraskans who think NOW is the time to fix our outdated immigration system! We want you to join hundreds of Nebraskans from across the state in Omaha Saturday afternoon as we march and gather to tell Congress now is the time to pass updated immigration laws that strengthen families, - [Crowd of 2,000 Nebraskans march and rally for common-sense immigration laws](https://neappleseed.org/14179) - Saturday, an estimated 2,000 Nebraskans from across the state gathered in Omaha to urge Nebraska’s members of Congress to pass updated immigration laws in 2013 that strengthen families, businesses, communities, and the future of our state. The “Families’ March and Rally for Dignity and Respect” was part of a nationwide push for immigration reform this - [2013 Good Apple Awards celebrates justice, opportunity](https://neappleseed.org/14183) - Last week, we hosted our favorite event of the year - the Good Apple Awards - and we were truly honored and humbled that more than 300 of our friends and supporters joined us to help celebrate progress made over the last year, amazing Nebraskans who have advanced justice and opportunity and the important work - [Take Action on the future of Nebraska’s tax system](https://neappleseed.org/14187) - This week, you have a great chance to have your say in the discussion about the future of Nebraska’s tax system. The Legislature’s Tax Modernization Committee will hold its final public hearings in Omaha and Lincoln this week, and they want to hear from you! Thursday, October 17 – Omaha - Metro Community College, South - [You’re Invited! Valiant Voices: Portraits of Strength](https://neappleseed.org/14191) - Ever wonder what barriers Omaha women face in breaking the cycle of generational poverty? Please join us for the opening of Valiant Voices: Portraits of Strength, Friday, October 25th at 12:00 p.m., at the First Floor Rotunda of the Capitol. This photo project, supported by the Women’s Fund of Omaha and in partnership with the - [Columbus business tour celebrates diversity of locally owned businesses](https://neappleseed.org/14195) - An article in Thursday’s Columbus Telegram highlighted a recent small-business tour that invited residents to get to know some of the diverse local businesses that help Columbus’ community thrive. From the article: “From long-standing businesses to newly opened stores, a tour through Columbus showcased a diversity among establishments in the city. A group of about - [“Valiant Voices” exhibit shows true stories of poverty and perseverance in Omaha](https://neappleseed.org/14200) - Since May, Appleseed has been partnering with Heart Ministry Center and a group of Omaha women who are fighting to break the cycle of generational poverty. A grant from the Women’s Fund of Omaha allowed us to provide these women with digital cameras to document the challenges they face on a daily basis. The result - [Nebraska Appleseed statement on fixing outdated U.S. immigration system](https://neappleseed.org/14208) - Today, Nebraska Appleseed Executive Director Rebecca Gould released the following statement on the effort to pass updated immigration laws to fix the outdated U.S. immigration system: “There is broad consensus in Nebraska and across the country that now is the time to update our immigration laws,” Gould said. “This morning, President Obama reiterated that Americans - [Affordable Care Act provides health care coverage opportunities for youth with foster care experience](https://neappleseed.org/14214) - There has been a lot of talk and excitement recently about the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which will be fully implemented starting January 1, 2014. While the ACA goes a long way in providing Nebraskans with access to affordable and comprehensive coverage, there are a few lesser-known provisions. In particular, youth who age out of - [Federal child welfare news](https://neappleseed.org/14217) - While Nebraska Appleseed continues to work with state lawmakers and local stakeholders to improve our state’s child welfare system, we also have been following several efforts to address child welfare issues at the federal level. Last week, I attended a gathering of policy advocates in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and - [November 1 reduction in SNAP funding is about to hurt Nebraska families](https://neappleseed.org/14220) - At the end of this week, thousands of Nebraska families who receive food assistance will face even more uncertainty because of a nationwide reduction in payments from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. On November 1, there will be a nationwide reduction in payments from SNAP, formerly called ‘food stamps’, which helps about 180,000 Nebraskans - - [Take Action - Prayer vigil for new immigration law Thursday](https://neappleseed.org/14325) - This year, thousands of Nebraskans have shown their support for Congress to pass updated immigration laws that keep families together, make our economy stronger, and move us forward as a state and country. Join us Thursday, November 7, for a prayer vigil for immigration reform outside Congressman Lee Terry’s Omaha office. A host of Omaha - [Updating immigration laws would boost U.S. economy](https://neappleseed.org/14331) - We know updating our immigration laws to include a pathway to citizenship for people living in the U.S. would go a long way toward keeping families together, improving health outcomes for Nebraska children, and reflect our state’s values of compassion and dignity. But, there are bottom-line, dollar-and-cents reasons to fix our outdated immigration system as - [News and Events from Nebraska Appleseed - November 2013](https://neappleseed.org/14333) - In this November edition of “Appleseed in Action” Health care Marketplace now open 2,000 Nebraskans march and rally for updated immigration laws Nationwide SNAP cuts will harm Nebraska families Federal child welfare news Tax Modernization Committee finishes public hearings Toward a Just Society: Poster prints benefiting Nebraska Appleseed Open enrollment begins, provides affordable coverage for - [Ensure health care coverage for Nebraska veterans](https://neappleseed.org/14341) - Today, Veterans Day, we honor the women and men of our armed forces who have sacrificed much to defend our country. Not only should we honor these men and women, we must support them too. That means ensuring they have access to opportunities and security after their time of service ends. Currently, 1 in 10 ## Pages - [Home](https://neappleseed.org/) - We fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. We take a systemic approach to child welfare, immigration, affordable healthcare and poverty. - [Community Assistance Line](https://neappleseed.org/gethelp) - Our services most often include referrals, legal information, and supportive advice. We do not typically handle individual representation cases. - [Neec Bowyer Good Trouble Fellowship](https://neappleseed.org/neecbowyer) - There are many ways to get involved with us, and we welcome all passionate individuals who are interested in learning more about becoming engaged in our work. - [Our Team](https://neappleseed.org/team) - Appleseeders are resilient, inspiring, and fully committed to a more-just Nebraska. We believe in working with communities to create positive change. - [Workers' Rights](https://neappleseed.org/workersrights) - Nebraska workers contribute their skills and talents to our communities and deserve safe, secure, and well-paying jobs and be treated with dignity and respect. - [Financial Information](https://neappleseed.org/financials) - IRS Form 990S, financial audits, IRS determination letter, annual reports, and foundation and grant support information. - [North Platte Healthcare Lunch & Chat](https://neappleseed.org/nphealth) - Join us for an open house about affording Healthcare and the Medicaid work requirements. Enjoy a provided lunch and a chance to win one of two $25 gift cards. - [Grand Island Healthcare Lunch & Chat](https://neappleseed.org/gihealth) - Join us for an open house about affording Healthcare and the Medicaid work requirements. Enjoy a provided lunch and a chance to win one of two $25 gift cards. - [Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/goodapple) - Join us for our annual Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. - [Summer Food](https://neappleseed.org/summerfood) - Summer Food Service Program (SFSP): SFSP offers kids ages one to 18 free meals in high-needs locations that are supervised, safe, and welcoming. - [Donate for the Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/goodappledonate) - Join us for our annual Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. - [Medicaid Expansion Work Requirements](https://neappleseed.org/medicaidwr) - For the past 3 years, most people were able to keep Medicaid even when their situation changed due to COVID protections. The protections are ending, learn more. - [Child Welfare Advocacy Fellowship](https://neappleseed.org/cwfellowship) - Fellows will work at a nonprofit focused on child welfare and juvenile justice reform and support for older youth who are aging out of these systems. - [Child Welfare Community Advocacy Cohort](https://neappleseed.org/childwelfarecac) - The cohort is a 9-month advocacy training program made up of impacted community members who meet at least once a month to participate in advocacy trainings and actions. - [Take Action](https://neappleseed.org/takeaction) - Get involved by taking action on critical issues impacting Nebraskans and our communities. Your voice helps build a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive Nebraska. - [Board](https://neappleseed.org/board) - We’re grateful for our dedicated and compassionate Board of Directors. They give their time, energy, and resources to fight for justice and opportunity. - [Volunteer, Intern, Clerk](https://neappleseed.org/getinvolved) - There are many ways to get involved with us, and we welcome all passionate individuals who are interested in learning more about becoming engaged in our work. - [Medicaid Expansion](https://neappleseed.org/medicaidexpansion) - All Medicaid expansion enrollees have access to all Nebraska Medicaid benefits, including dental, vision, and over-the-counter drug coverage. - [Good Apple Awards Sponsorships & Tickets](https://neappleseed.org/goodappleticket) - Become a sponsor or reserve your tickets for our annual Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans. - [Health Care Community Conversation About Dental Care At Meadowlark](https://neappleseed.org/conversation) - Join us for a Health Care Community Conversation in Lincoln, NE at Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso, 1640 South St. - [Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/childwelfare) - We’re committed to reforming the child welfare system by ensuring children and families receive support and intervention that strengthens families. - [Neec Bowyer Good Trouble Fellowship Fund](https://neappleseed.org/neecbowyerfund) - There are many ways to get involved with us, and we welcome all passionate individuals who are interested in learning more about becoming engaged in our work. - [Medicaid](https://neappleseed.org/medicaid) - Medicaid provides much-needed health care coverage to many low-income Nebraskans, which ​supports the health and wellbeing of Nebraskans and our communities. - [Construyendo la Democracia con Cada Voto](https://neappleseed.org/votar) - Una democracia fuerte se centra en el poder de la comunidad. Todos los habitantes de Nebraska, independientemente de nuestra raza, etnia, género, orientación sexual, edad o habilidad, debemos tener la oportunidad y estar facultados para participar activamente en la construcción de una democracia que genere un cambio positivo en nuestras comunidades, antes, durante y después del ciclo electoral. - [Build Democracy with Every Vote](https://neappleseed.org/vote) - A strong democracy is centered around community power. Every Nebraskan must have the opportunity and be empowered to play an active role in our democracy. - [Health Care Access](https://neappleseed.org/healthcare) - Health care coverage is a vital part of living a good life. Nebraskans with health insurance are physically healthier – and economically more secure. - [Join Our Team](https://neappleseed.org/team/jobs) - At Appleseed, we welcome passionate individuals who are dedicated to building a Nebraska where everyone can enjoy the good life. - [Become a Sustaining Supporter](https://neappleseed.org/sustainer) - When you give monthly, you provide critical flexibility to tackle emerging issues and ensure that Appleseed can fight for systemic change. - [El Programa de Asistencia de Nutrición Suplementaria (SNAP)](https://neappleseed.org/snap-es) - SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. - [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)](https://neappleseed.org/snap) - SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. - [Advocacy Resources](https://neappleseed.org/advocacyresources) - Get involved by taking action on critical issues impacting Nebraskans and our communities. Your voice helps build a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive Nebraska. - [Legislative Priorities](https://neappleseed.org/legislature) - Our services most often include referrals, legal information, and supportive advice. Because our litigation is focused on issues affecting many Nebraskans at once)\, we do not typically handle individual representation cases. - [Nebraska SNAP - A 60 Year Legacy In Historic Danger](https://neappleseed.org/fundsnap) - SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. - [Enroll in Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/assisters) - Nebraskans can sign up for health coverage with the help of Enrollment Assisters. Use this online map to locate an assister organization in your community. - [Donate](https://neappleseed.org/donate) - Your donation will carry forward the fight for a just, vibrant, and inclusive Nebraska where everyone can thrive! - [Donate - 2025 Year End Campaign](https://neappleseed.org/donate2025) - Your donation will carry forward the fight for a just, vibrant, and inclusive Nebraska where everyone can thrive! - [School Breakfast Supports Nebraska Families](https://neappleseed.org/breakfast) - With equitable nutrition, kids will be healthier and more ready to learn and schools will see better academic performance and decreased behavioral issues. - [Food Access Community Advocates Cohort](https://neappleseed.org/foodcac) - The Food Access Community Advocates Cohort (CAC) is a 9-month advocacy program for impacted community members who participate in advocacy trainings and actions. - [Community Assistance Line Fellowship](https://neappleseed.org/calfellowship) - Our services most often include referrals, legal information, and supportive advice. We do not typically handle individual representation cases. - [SNAP Overpayments](https://neappleseed.org/overpayments) - SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. - [Sobrepago de SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/overpayments-es) - SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. - [Nebraska Is Home: ‘Bridging to Belonging’ Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/nihseries) - Join community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Health Care Community Advocates Cohort](https://neappleseed.org/healthcarecac) - The Health Care Community Advocates Cohort (CAC) is an 8-month advocacy program for impacted community members who participate in advocacy trainings and actions. - [Contact Us](https://neappleseed.org/contact) - CONTACT US Hi there! Do you have a question about our work? Connect with us by filling out the form below! A member of our team will respond to your request as soon as possible. If you would like an Appleseed staff member to speak at your event or presentation, please click on the Request - [Donate to Wisconsin Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/wiappleseed) - Wisconsin Appleseed is a non-profit organization that fights for justice and opportunity for all Wisconsinites. We rely on donations to continue our work. - [Speaker Request Form](https://neappleseed.org/speaker-request) - Are you looking for an Appleseeder to share more about what we do and the issues we work on? To best help you, please fill out this speaker request form. - [Who We Are](https://neappleseed.org/who-we-are) - Since 1996, Nebraska Appleseed has fought for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. We take a systemic approach to complex issues. - [End The SNAP Ban](https://neappleseed.org/endthesnapban) - Formerly incarcerated Nebraskans must be able to meet their basic needs to successfully reintegrate into their communities. - [Immigrants & Communities](https://neappleseed.org/immigrants) - Immigrant Nebraskans have been contributing and building lives in local communities for generations. Our state has everything to gain from welcoming them. - [Share Your Medicaid Experience](https://neappleseed.org/medicaidhelp) - This online form allows you to share your experience regarding Nebraska Medicaid renewals or terminations with Nebraska Appleseed. - [Our Privacy Policy](https://neappleseed.org/privacy) - Our privacy promise to you: uur commitment to conduct business honestly and protect your privacy is at the heart of our Privacy Policy. - [Ways To Give](https://neappleseed.org/giving) - Contributors like you ensure Nebraska Appleseed can fight for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans wherever we can do the most good. - [Full Inclusion](https://neappleseed.org/fullinclusion) - Immigrants are integral to Nebraska’s diverse and thriving communities but Congress has not meaningfully updated our immigration laws in more than 35 years. - [Economic Justice](https://neappleseed.org/economicjustice) - Everyone should have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. Our goal is to clear a path to allow Nebraskans to have those opportunities. - [Share Your SNAP Overpayment Experience](https://neappleseed.org/overpaymentshelp) - SNAP is supposed to reduce food insecurity, not increase financial hardship. Unfortunately, ~7,000 Nebraska households deal with a SNAP overpayment every year. - [School Nutrition Equity](https://neappleseed.org/schoolnutritionequity) - Equity is important because certain groups of people have historically been marginalized and are still disadvantaged and discriminated against. Structural racism is one important contributor to this. By not acknowledging imbalanced social systems, it’s impossible to have justice for all people. Equity is a solution. - [Food and Nutrition Access](https://neappleseed.org/food) - We work to increase access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Child Nutrition programs that serve kids and families year-round. - [Client Grievance Policy](https://neappleseed.org/grievance) - If you are dissatisfied with the assistance you received or how you were treated by Nebraska Appleseed’s staff, we want to know. - [Politica De Quejas De Clientes De Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/queja) - Si no está satisfecho con la asistencia que recibió o cómo lo trató el personal de Nebraska Appleseed, queremos saberlo. - [Thank You](https://neappleseed.org/thankyou) - Thank you! - [Subscribe](https://neappleseed.org/subscribe) - Keep up with all the happenings in our programs by signing up for news alerts, special announcements, events, resources, and more! - [Journey to Success Advocacy Fellowship](https://neappleseed.org/jtsafellowship) - Fellows will gain experience working in a nonprofit advocacy organization focused on child welfare and juvenile justice reform and support for older youth who are aging out of these systems. - [Foster Care Reform Legal Resource Center](https://neappleseed.org/lrc) - LRC resources are intended to assist attorneys in juvenile court practice and encourage systemic change within Nebraska’s child welfare system. - [Truth & Reconciliation History Project](https://neappleseed.org/trhp) - Your tax-deductible contribution will be designated in support of Roots of Justice: Historical Truth & Reconciliation in Lincoln and Nebraska, a project fiscally-sponsored by Nebraska Appleseed. - [Roots of Justice](https://neappleseed.org/rootsofjustice) - Your tax-deductible contribution will be designated in support of Roots of Justice: Historical Truth & Reconciliation in Lincoln and Nebraska, a project fiscally-sponsored by Nebraska Appleseed. - [Help Eric Raise $300 for Nebraska Appleseed in 2024](https://neappleseed.org/eric2024) - I am lucky that the work I do is also work that I believe in. In my job, I get to help support policies and programs that get food to people who need it. - [Help James Raise $750 for Nebraska Appleseed in 2024](https://neappleseed.org/james2024) - This week, Pepper and I invite you to help support all Appleseed's efforts by donating. - [Our Work](https://neappleseed.org/ourwork) - In collaboration with community members and leaders, elected officials, and partners, we strive to solve deeply rooted, interrelated systemic issues. - [Collective Impact Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/collectiveimpactlincoln) - Collective Impact Lincoln is a collaborative project aimed to support lasting, meaningful, resident-led investment and positive change in six of Lincoln’s core neighborhoods. - [Events](https://neappleseed.org/events) - Upcoming events - [Pages](https://neappleseed.org/pages) - [Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/civi) - [Derechos de Trabajadores](https://neappleseed.org/derechosdetrabajadores) - Aquí usted puede encontrar información sobre sus derechos en el trabajo. Puede aprender sobre: salud y seguridad, cómo presentar una queja ante OSHA, el pago de salario, la discriminación en el trabajo, compensación del trabajador (compensación en el caso de lesión o accidente en el trabajo). A continuación encontrará videos, folletos y “links” de otras organizaciones y recursos. - [Help Nick Raise $300 for Nebraska Appleseed in 2023](https://neappleseed.org/nick2023) - Nebraska Appleseed is kicking off our annual fundraiser today! This year's goal is to raise $80K by December 10th. - [Help Kristine Raise $750 for Nebraska Appleseed in 2023](https://neappleseed.org/kristine2023) - I'm so grateful that Appleseed is here doing that hard work to protect and strengthen Nebraska families. Will you join me in supporting this work into 2024? ## Events - [Nebraska Housing Advocate Grill Out](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-housing-advocate-grill-out) - Nebraskans deserve safe, accessible, and affordable housing. Join the movement to fight for Nebraskan's right to fair housing! Enjoy FREE hot dogs, burgers, and sides (vegan included)! Consider bringing a side or dessert to share! Connect with other passionate Nebraskans! Learn about housing issues and opportunities to fight for solutions! Family friendly, children are welcome! - [Grand Island Healthcare Lunch & Chat](https://neappleseed.org/event/grand-island-healthcare-lunch-chat) - We are hosting an open house event about affording Health Care and the Medicaid work requirements – aiming to create a space for people to access resources, gain a better understanding of work requirements, and share their stories. Lunch will be provided and participants will have a chance to enter into a raffle drawing for - [North Platte Healthcare Lunch & Chat](https://neappleseed.org/event/north-platte-healthcare-lunch-chat) - We are hosting an open house event about affording Health Care and the Medicaid work requirements – aiming to create a space for people to access resources, gain a better understanding of work requirements, and share their stories. Lunch will be provided and participants will have a chance to enter into a raffle drawing for - [Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/event/good-apple-awards-4) - Save the date for Nebraska Appleseed’s 2026 Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. 2026 GOOD APPLE AWARDS Thursday, October 8, 2026 Livestock Exchange Building Ballroom | Omaha, NE 6:00 p.m. Music & Hors d’Oeuvres Dinner | 7:00 p.m. Program Business or - [Our Voices, Our Why: Part 2 Beyond Aging Out: Building Pathways to Stability](https://neappleseed.org/event/our-voices-our-why-part-2-beyond-aging-out-building-pathways-to-stability) - Nebraska Appleseed invites young adults, community members, service providers, families, advocates, and partners to join us for an afternoon of conversation, connection, and community building focused on navigating adulthood after foster care and juvenile justice involvement. This youth-centered event will feature a Young Adult Panel sharing their lived expertise on accessing housing, healthcare, vital documents, - [Health Care Community Conversation About Dental Care + Coffee On Us!](https://neappleseed.org/event/health-care-community-conversation-about-dental-care-coffee-on-us) - Join us for a community conversation about access to dental care – and coffee on us! We know many community members in Nebraska face challenges accessing the dental health care they need, whether it's the cost, finding a provider, getting preventive care, or receiving ongoing care. Many Nebraskans also experience significant disparities in getting the - [June 15 DACA Anniversary to Take Action for Permanent Solutions](https://neappleseed.org/event/june-15-daca-anniversary-to-take-action-for-permanent-solutions-2) - This year marks 14 years of DACA (and 25 years since the DREAM Act was first introduced), and Congress still has not delivered permanent solutions for community members who have built their lives, families and careers here. Join us on Monday, June 15 for a brief conversation about DACA’s legacy, the growing threats facing immigrant communities, and - [June 15 DACA Anniversary to Take Action for Permanent Solutions](https://neappleseed.org/event/june-15-daca-anniversary-to-take-action-for-permanent-solutions) - This year marks 14 years of DACA (and 25 years since the DREAM Act was first introduced), and Congress still has not delivered permanent solutions for community members who have built their lives, families and careers here. Join us on Monday, June 15 for a brief conversation about DACA’s legacy, the growing threats facing immigrant - [“We All Belong In Welcoming” Session 4: Arts for Wellness and Belonging](https://neappleseed.org/event/we-all-belong-in-welcoming-session-4-arts-for-wellness-and-belonging) - Community leaders from all over Nebraska share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [“We All Belong In Welcoming” Session 3: The Value of Multisector Partnerships](https://neappleseed.org/event/we-all-belong-in-welcoming-session-3-the-value-of-multisector-partnerships) - Community leaders from all over Nebraska share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [“We All Belong In Welcoming” Session 2: Belonging Barometer: Tools for Building Community](https://neappleseed.org/event/we-all-belong-in-welcoming-session-2-belonging-barometer-tools-for-building-community) - Community leaders from all over Nebraska to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [“We All Belong In Welcoming” Session 1: Roots of Justice - Reflecting on the past, building our future](https://neappleseed.org/event/we-all-belong-in-welcoming-session-1-roots-of-justice-reflecting-on-the-past-building-our-future) - Community leaders from all over Nebraska share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Nebraska Workers’ Memorial Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-workers-memorial-day) - Join this annual Nebraska vigil to honor Nebraskans injured or lost to workplace fatalities – as part of the nationwide Workers’ Memorial Day. Hosted by United Support and Memorial for Workplace Fatalities (USMWF). This is a day when we all come together to honor, remember, and recognize the men and women who have been injured - [Celebrating 30 years of Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/event/celebrating-30-years-of-nebraska-appleseed) - Join Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, April 2 at Bin 105 in Lincoln to celebrate 30 years of fighting for justice and opportunity! - [First Friday at Crescent Moon](https://neappleseed.org/event/first-friday-at-crescent-moon) - Swing by Crescent Moon on Friday, March 6 to learn more about (or sign) the Respect Nebraska Voters ballot initiative. See our collection of silkscreen posters while you’re there! - [Poster Show at Crescent Moon](https://neappleseed.org/event/poster-show-at-crescent-moon) - Our friends at Crescent Moon are helping us celebrate 30 years by showing our collection of limited-edition, handcrafted silkscreen posters. - [“Lets Do Lunch” 3Sisters Annual Lunch Food Drive](https://neappleseed.org/event/lets-do-lunch-3sisters-annual-lunch-food-drive) - Nebraska Appleseed will join 3Sisters for their annual lunch drive and share information about the Nebraska Medicaid work requirements and copays. - [Justice Access Engagement Listening Session](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-access-engagement-listening-session) - Join us for a community conversation about the lack of access to legal services in Nebraska. We intend to focus on the barriers that real people face. - [Our Voices, Our Why: Youth-Led Futures & Community Belonging](https://neappleseed.org/event/our-voices-our-why-youth-led-futures-community-belonging) - Community members, families, and partners are invited to listen to and learn from young people with lived experience. - [What’s at Stake for Nebraskan’s Food Access (and what we can do about it)](https://neappleseed.org/event/whats-at-stake-for-nebraskans-food-access-and-what-we-can-do-about-it) - Join us virtually on Thursday, January 22 from 6:00-7:30 pm CT to learn about the state of SNAP in Nebraska and the food access bills that have been introduced in the 2026 Nebraska Legislature. We’ll share an overview of bills that could impact… The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps) Child - [A Housing Advocates Guide to the Legislative Session](https://neappleseed.org/event/a-housing-advocates-guide-to-the-legislative-session-2) - Join Nebraska Appleseed, Civic Nebraska, and more to learn about housing bills this session and how you can advocate for fair housing! - [How to Make Your Voice Heard in Nebraska’s Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/event/how-to-make-your-voice-heard-in-nebraskas-legislature-2) - Advocating for the first time can feel like a huge step, but you don't have to learn the many ways you can engage in Nebraska policy changes alone! - [Lunch & Learn: Respect NE Voters Briefing and Training](https://neappleseed.org/event/lunch-learn-respect-ne-voters) - In November, Nebraska Appleseed joined with partners to launch a ballot initiative campaign—Respect Nebraska Voters—to ensure that our state lawmakers respect the will of the people when Nebraska voters make a decision at the ballot box. We invite you to join us for a Lunch & Learn briefing about the campaign and how you can - [Cocoa & Conversation: Prepping for Legislative Policy Season](https://neappleseed.org/event/cocoa-conversation-prepping-for-legislative-policy-season) - Join us via Zoom on Tuesday, December 9 at 6:30 PM to discuss carryover bills from 2025 and prepare for the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session. - [Help Protect SNAP in Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/event/help-protect-snap-in-nebraska) - Join us on Zoom Thursday, 11/20 at 6pm CT to talk about current and upcoming changes to SNAP, who’s at risk, and what we need our elected officials to do. - [Urban Abbey November partnership](https://neappleseed.org/event/urban-abbey-november-partnership) - The Urban Abbey in Omaha has selected Nebraska Appleseed to be its nonprofit partner for the month of November. All month long, 10% of all coffee bar sales will be donated to Nebraska Appleseed! The Urban Abbey is a nonprofit, fair trade coffee shop, bookstore, and United Methodist church located in the heart of downtown - [Direct Democracy Volunteer Meeting](https://neappleseed.org/event/direct-democracy-volunteer-meeting-2) - Join us on Tuesday, December 16 at 6:00 PM for a Volunteer Meeting to learn more about our road to November 2026. We need your help to advance opportunity and justice for as many Nebraskans as possible. Help us develop our strategies to connect with voters across the state and make our voices heard in - [Direct Democracy Volunteer Meeting](https://neappleseed.org/event/direct-democracy-volunteer-meeting) - Join us on Tuesday, November 18 at 6:00 PM for a Volunteer Meeting to learn more about our road to November 2026. We need your help to advance opportunity and justice for as many Nebraskans as possible. Help us develop our strategies to connect with voters across the state and make our voices heard in - [Justice Access Engagement Listening Sessions: Addressing the Legal Desert in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-access-engagement-listening-sessions-addressing-the-legal-desert-in-nebraska-2) - Join us for a community conversation about the lack of access to legal services in Nebraska. We intend to focus on the barriers that real people face in getting the legal assistance that they need with the aim to collaboratively craft a plan with the community about how to best address it. This event is - [Halloween Housing Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/halloween-housing-potluck) - Is your housing situation spooky? Tell us more at our Halloween Housing Potluck on Wednesday, October 22nd, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Peter Pan Park in the Open Shelter! Join Lincoln for Fair Housing to connect with fellow Lincolnites over a shared meal and discussion of our housing experiences, dreams, and schemes! Children are - [Lincoln for Fair Housing at LNK Trunk or Treat](https://neappleseed.org/event/lincoln-for-fair-housing-at-lnk-trunk-or-treat) - Help the Lincoln for Fair Housing Coalition pass out candy and renters' rights information at the LNK Trunk or Treat! We'll have a Halloween-y decorated trunk and lots of information about the new source of income protections and additional resources. Register - [Lincoln for Fair Housing at Belmont Treat Street](https://neappleseed.org/event/lincoln-for-fair-housing-at-belmont-treat-street) - Help the Lincoln for Fair Housing Coalition pass out candy and renters' rights information at Belmont Treat Street! We'll have a Halloween-y decorated trunk and lots of information about the new source of income protections and additional resources. Register - [Build Letter-Writing Kits to Support Positive Immigration Laws](https://neappleseed.org/event/build-letter-writing-kits-to-support-positive-immigration-laws) - Our lawmakers need to hear the voices of folks impacted by our long, outdated immigration laws. - [Direct Democracy Volunteer Team Meeting](https://neappleseed.org/event/direct-democracy-volunteer-team-meeting) - Join us on Tuesday, October 21st at 6:00 PM for a Volunteer Meeting to learn more about our road to November 2026. We need your help to advance opportunity and justice for as many Nebraskans as possible. Help us develop our strategies to connect with voters across the state and make our voices heard in - [Community Festival](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-festival) - In collaboration with F St Community Center and a group of Latina mothers, Nebraska Appleseed invites you to a community festival! - [Volunteer Team Meeting](https://neappleseed.org/event/volunteer-team-meeting) - We are building our direct democracy volunteer team! Join the conversation to learn about the many roles needed to make these campaigns possible. - [Know Your Rights Training & Policy Briefing](https://neappleseed.org/event/know-your-rights-training) - Extreme immigration enforcement actions have torn apart Nebraska families and sent harmful ripple effects across our state. It’s essential that Nebraskans know their constitutional rights, how policies are changing, and what we can all do to respond to extreme enforcement actions at this moment. We invite you to join us on Thursday, September 4 at - [The 2025 Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/event/the-2025-good-apple-awards) - Save the date for Nebraska Appleseed’s 2025 Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. Learn more about how you can support this year's event and honorees. - [Justice Access Engagement Listening Sessions: Addressing the Legal Desert in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-access-engagement-listening-sessions-addressing-the-legal-desert-in-nebraska) - Join us for a community conversation about the barriers people face in getting the legal assistance they need. - [60 Years of Medicaid: Celebrate and Protect Our Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/event/60-years-of-medicaid-celebrate-and-protect-our-health-care) - Join Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, ACLU Nebraska, and Nebraska Appleseed in celebration of Medicaid's legacy and an urgent call to action. - [Policy Briefing: What Comes Next](https://neappleseed.org/event/policy-briefing-what-comes-next-2) - Presentation begins at Noon Followed by a Q&A session Register for this Zoom event Registration is required to attend - [Policy Briefing: What Comes Next](https://neappleseed.org/event/policy-briefing-what-comes-next) - Congress passed the devastating budget reconciliation bill that now goes to the President to sign. The bill will have severe implications for Nebraskans: ripping away health care and food access from tens of thousands of people to fund tax breaks for billionaires and sweeping deportations of everyday working people that will separate families. We invite - [Health Care Town Hall](https://neappleseed.org/event/health-care-town-hall) - Join your community for a Health Care Town Hall in Omaha to share your concerns about the massive health care cuts being considered by Congress. Members of the public, press, and elected officials are welcome. We’ll share the most up to date information about the status of health care cuts and how you can get - [What's Next for Fair Housing?](https://neappleseed.org/event/whats-next-for-fair-housing) - Now that we’ve done a ballot initiative, what’s next for fair housing? We’ll decide together over a meal and creative ideation. Current, and future hopeful, Lincoln for Fair Housing coalition members are invited to attend! Dinner provided. RSVP online at bit.ly/LFFHousing Community Care & COVID-19 Considerations: If you are feeling unwell or have been in - [Heartland Pride Festival](https://neappleseed.org/event/heartland-pride-festival) - Join us at the Heartland Pride Festival to celebrate Pride in the Omaha city area. Stop by our table to grab some Appleseed Pride Swag, learn about important information to know about this year's legislative session, and discover more ways to get involved in our work! - [Heartland Youth Pride](https://neappleseed.org/event/heartland-youth-pride) - Join us at Heartland Youth Pride to celebrate young folks across the heartland area. Stop by our table to grab some Appleseed Pride Swag, learn about important information to know about this year's legislative session, and discover more ways to get involved in our work! - [Grand Island Pride](https://neappleseed.org/event/grand-island-pride) - Join us at Grand Island Pride to celebrate Pride in the Grand Island city area. Stop by our table to grab some Appleseed Pride Swag, learn about important information to know about this year's legislative session, and discover more ways to get involved in our work! - [Star City Pride in the Park](https://neappleseed.org/event/star-city-pride-in-the-park) - Join us at Star City Pride in the Park to celebrate Pride in the Lincoln city area. Stop by our table to grab some Appleseed Pride Swag, learn about important information to know about this year's legislative session, and discover more ways to get involved in our work! - [Federal Policy Update with Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/event/federal-policy-update-with-nebraska-appleseed) - Join Nebraska Appleseed on Tuesday, June 17 at Noon for an update on Appleseed’s federal priorities and how you can get involved. - [Bridging to Belonging: 11th-Annual Nebraska Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/event/bridging-to-belonging-11th-annual-nebraska-welcoming-convening-series-2) - The (virtual) 11th-annual statewide welcoming convening series brings together Nebraska community leaders to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Bridging to Belonging: 11th-Annual Nebraska Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/event/bridging-to-belonging-11th-annual-nebraska-welcoming-convening-series-3) - The (virtual) 11th-annual statewide welcoming convening series brings together Nebraska community leaders to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Bridging to Belonging: 11th-Annual Nebraska Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/event/bridging-to-belonging-11th-annual-nebraska-welcoming-convening-series-4) - The (virtual) 11th-annual statewide welcoming convening series brings together Nebraska community leaders to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Bridging to Belonging: 11th-Annual Nebraska Welcoming Convening Series](https://neappleseed.org/event/bridging-to-belonging-11th-annual-nebraska-welcoming-convening-series) - The (virtual) statewide welcoming convening series brings together Nebraska community leaders to share experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. - [Give to Lincoln Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/give-to-lincoln-day-2) - The month of May is the most impactful time of the year to make the most of your support for Nebraska Appleseed. Give to Lincoln Day is Thursday, May 29th, but you can give early starting today. When you give in May, your support goes even further: Your gift increases Appleseed’s share of the Lincoln - [Connect with Appleseed at Open Harvest](https://neappleseed.org/event/connect-with-appleseed-at-open-harvest) - Stop by Open Harvest in Lincoln Saturday, May 17th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to meet with Appleseed organizers! Learn more about our work and how you can get involved. While you’re there, you can also support Appleseed by shopping at Open Harvest! Just round up at the register and the proceeds will be - [Lincoln for Fair Housing Fundraiser](https://neappleseed.org/event/lincoln-for-fair-housing-fundraiser) - During the May 6 general election, Lincoln voters can vote FOR fair housing and end source-of-income discrimination. You’re invited to join us for a fundraiser and advocacy night to make it happen: Lincoln for Fair Housing fundraiser Thursday, April 17th 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Food and refreshments provided. Remarks at 6:30 p.m. RAYGUN The - [Protect Our Vote Letter Writing Party](https://neappleseed.org/event/protect-our-vote-letter-writing-party) - Join in a letter-writing action to defend hard-won victories on paid sick leave and minimum wage, as well as Nebraska’s unique electoral vote allocation. - [Mid-session Mixer in Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/event/mid-session-mixer-in-lincoln) - Join Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, April 24 at White Elm Brewing in Lincoln to hear important updates about the 2025 legislative session. - [Community Conversation: Health Care Debt and Affordability in Nebraska](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-conversation-health-care-debt-and-affordability-in-nebraska) - Join us and our partner 3Sisters for a Community Conversation: Health Care Debt and Affordability in Nebraska! - [Black Families Health and Wellness Fair](https://neappleseed.org/event/black-families-health-and-wellness-fair) - Volunteer with us at the Black Families Health and Wellness Fair in Omaha to provide information to our communities about healthcare access and opportunities. - [Letters to our Senators](https://neappleseed.org/event/letters-to-our-senators-2) - Join us to write to our Senators to encourage them to support legislation that will support justice and opportunity for all Nebraska. - [Thank You Notes for Community Advocates](https://neappleseed.org/event/thank-you-notes-for-community-advocates) - Join us at the Appleseed office to celebrate the work of our community advocates in and outside of the legislature! - [Letters to Our Senators](https://neappleseed.org/event/letters-to-our-senators) - Join us to write to our Senators to encourage them to support legislation that will support justice and opportunity for all Nebraska. Help us tell our law makers that they need to listen to us! We will provide letter writing kits and dinner to all participants, friends and family are welcome! - [Mid-Session Mixer](https://neappleseed.org/event/mid-session-mixer-2) - Join Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, March 6 in Omaha to hear important updates about the 2025 Nebraska Legislative session. - [2025 Legislative Update with Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/event/2025-legislative-update-with-nebraska-appleseed) - Join Nebraska Appleseed on Thursday, February 13th to hear important updates about the 2025 Nebraska Legislative session. - [How to Advocate for Food Access in the NE Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/event/how-to-advocate-for-food-access-in-the-ne-legislature) - Join us on Thursday, January 23rd from 5:30-7:00 pm CT to learn about the food access bills that have been introduced in the Nebraska Legislature for 2025. - [“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 3: The Healing of Harman](https://neappleseed.org/event/through-our-neighbors-eyes-virtual-film-series-film-3-the-healing-of-harman) - Join us for a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska. - [“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 2: Cultures in the Crossfade: Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/event/through-our-neighbors-eyes-virtual-film-series-film-2-cultures-in-the-crossfade-lincoln) - Join us for a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska. - [“Through our Neighbors’ Eyes” Virtual Film Series - Film 1: To the State of the Good Life](https://neappleseed.org/event/through-our-neighbors-eyes-virtual-film-series-film-1-to-the-state-of-the-good-life) - Join us for a virtual film series bringing together a collection of short films that highlight immigrant and refugee stories from people in Nebraska. - [Lincoln for Fair Housing Launch Party](https://neappleseed.org/event/lincoln-for-fair-housing-launch-party) - Join Lincoln for Fair Housing for our Ballot Initiative Launch Party! We’ll see you at NeighborWorks Lincoln on Tuesday, December 12th, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. - [Urban Abbey: Community Partner of the Month](https://neappleseed.org/event/urban-abbey-community-partner-of-the-month) - Nebraska Appleseed is the Urban Abbey's Community Partner of the Month this November! That means that 10% of Urban Abbey’s coffee bar sales will be donated to Nebraska Appleseed throughout the entire month. If you're in Omaha, please consider Urban Abbey (1026 Jackson St) for your coffee, tea, or smoothie needs this month. It's a - [A 2025 Preview with Nebraska Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/event/a-2025-preview-with-nebraska-appleseed) - Join Appleseed for a preview of the 2025 legislative session and the priorities that will be shaping our work next year. Hear directly from our State and Federal Policy Directors and learn how you can help create a more just and inclusive Nebraska for all. - [Housing Advocate Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-potluck-3) - Is your housing situation spooky? Tell us more at our Halloween Housing Advocates Potluck + Costume Party! - [Ballot Breakdown](https://neappleseed.org/event/ballot-breakdown) - This virtual session is open to anyone who wants an easy guide on how to navigate this year's ballot! No previous experience or knowledge is required! - [Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 2 (Omaha)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-hearing-omaha) - The Secretary of State is having a public hearing on Initiative 436 and we need Nebraskans like to testify in support. Come make your voice heard. - [Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 3 (Ogallala)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-hearing-ogallala) - The Secretary of State is having a public hearing on Initiative 436 and we need Nebraskans like to testify in support. Come make your voice heard. - [Paid Sick Leaving Hearing: Congressional District 1 (Lincoln)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-hearing-lincoln) - The Secretary of State is having a public hearing on Initiative 436 and we need Nebraskans like to testify in support. Come make your voice heard. - [Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation w/ OutNebraska](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-community-conversation-w-outnebraska) - Join Nebraska Appleseed and OutNebraska in Omaha on October 15th for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. - [Justice Reimagined: A Virtual Community Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-reimagined-a-virtual-community-conversation) - Join Nebraska Appleseed and RISE for a community conversation on legislative bills that impact the incarcerated and post-incarceration folx in Nebraska! - [Scoops of Support Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/scoops-of-support-day) - Throughout October, you can get a special Appleseed ice cream at eCreamery in Omaha (5001 Underwood Ave) and support Appleseed’s mission! - [Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Lincoln)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-community-conversation-lincoln) - Join us for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign. Register online. - [Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Omaha)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-community-conversation-omaha) - Join Nebraska Appleseed and OutNebraska for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign. Register online. - [Paid Sick Leave Community Conversation (Grand Island)](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-community-conversation-grand-island) - Join us for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Nebraskans for Paid Sick Leave campaign. Register online. - [Housing Advocate Summit: Advancing Renters' Rights and Equity in Housing - Day 2](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-summit-advancing-renters-rights-and-equity-in-housing-day-2) - In Nebraska, 89% of extremely low-income renters are unable to afford even basic housing. Join us to strengthen our community as advocates and build our collective knowledge. - [Housing Advocate Summit: Advancing Renters' Rights and Equity in Housing - Day 1](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-summit-advancing-renters-rights-and-equity-in-housing-day-1) - In Nebraska, 89% of extremely low-income renters are unable to afford even basic housing. Join us to strengthen our community as advocates and build our collective knowledge. - [Welcoming Week 2024](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-week-2024) - Join us for Welcoming Week 2024 from September 13-22! This year’s theme “We’re All In” aims to go deeper and spark individual reflection on how and why belonging occurs, and ways we can break barriers to foster belonging for all, including immigrants and refugees. Here in Nebraska and across the country and globe, community members are practicing what - [Justice Reimagined: A Community Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-reimagined-a-community-conversation-2) - To end the cycles of incarceration, we must be open to having hard conversations, especially when Black and Brown communities are the most impacted, but the ones not often invited to the table. That’s why we’re co-hosting another community conversation with our friends at RISE: to uplift the voices of those who have been incarcerated - [Supporter Happy Hour](https://neappleseed.org/event/supporter-happy-hour) - You’re invited to gather with Nebraska Appleseed, Elevate Grand Island, and Young Professionals of Color for a supporter happy hour! You’ll learn more about the work each group is doing in the community and throughout the state; meet staff and other advocates; and learn how you can get involved. It’s also an opportunity to check - [Housing Advocates: Community Organizing 101](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocates-community-organizing-101) - Join us for a Community Organizing 101 workshop, where you’ll connect with other advocates from across Lincoln over a shared meal and learn how to unite your community to drive meaningful change. Community organizing is a powerful tool in housing advocacy, empowering individuals to come together, identify common issues, and collectively work towards solutions that - [Nebraska Statewide Housing Advocates Grill-Out](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-statewide-housing-advocates-grill-out) - Join us for an evening of community and connection at the Statewide Housing Advocates Grill-out, co-hosted by Collective Impact Lincoln and NeighborWorks Lincoln! Enjoy a shared meal and engaging conversations as we explore ways to use our collective power to strengthen housing advocacy in Lincoln. We’ll provide a variety of grilled favorites, including burgers and - [Justice Reimagined: A Community Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/event/justice-reimagined-a-community-conversation) - Join Nebraska Appleseed and RISE Reentry Program for a Justice Reimagined Community Conversation on Monday, August 19th from 5:15pm-7:00pm in the RISE Reentry Office. We’ll host a conversation, eat tasty food, play games, and more! This is an open house event, so come at the time that works best for you. Family and friends are - [Housing Advocates: Feeding the Neighborhood](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocates-feeding-the-neighborhood) - Join us to hear from three local experts on what we can and are doing to feed locals and rebuild the connection between us and the food on our plates! - [Take Action Tuesday - June 2022](https://neappleseed.org/event/take-action-tuesday) - Tuesday, June 28th @ 1-130p with OutNebraska, taking action around the Equality Act in honor of Pride Month - [Nebraska is Home summer series: Practicing Community Tools for Race Equity and Belonging](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-is-home-summer-series-practicing-community-tools-for-race-equity-and-belonging) - Join community leaders who, like yourself, believe our communities are strongest when everyone feels like they belong. - [Carne y Arena](https://neappleseed.org/event/carne-y-arena) - Omaha Virtual Reality art exhibit at Kaneko on the experience of crossing the U.S. southern border. Opens June 9 through Sept. 10. - [Raise the Wage Signature Turn In Event](https://neappleseed.org/event/raise-the-wage-signature-turn-in-event) - [Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/event/good-apple-awards) - SAVE THE DATE - Join us as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans, and celebrate the year’s accomplishments with Nebraska Appleseed. - [Storytelling Workshop - FULL](https://neappleseed.org/event/storytelling-workshop) - Your story is your power. It’s your reason to care about the things you do. This workshop will help you tell your unique story to motivate others to care. Experts will cover different platforms—letters to the editor, social media, and public speaking—to guide you on how to craft your story. Seats for this event filled fast! Didn’t get to register in time? Time didn’t work for you? Send us a message and we’ll let you know when the next workshop is scheduled! - [Final Session - PRACTICING COMMUNITY TOOLS FOR RACE EQUITY & BELONGING – VIRTUAL SERIES](https://neappleseed.org/event/final-session-practicing-community-tools-for-race-equity-belonging-virtual-series) - Join community leaders who, like yourself, believe our communities are strongest when everyone feels like they belong. - [National Welcoming Week! #WhereWeBelong](https://neappleseed.org/event/national-welcoming-week-wherewebelong) - This year’s Welcoming Week theme “Where We Belong” aims to go deeper and spark individual reflection on how and why belonging occurs, and ways we can break barriers to foster belonging for all, including immigrants and refugees. - [Take Action Tuesday](https://neappleseed.org/event/take-action-tuesday-2) - For this upcoming Take Action Tuesday, we will chat about the Child Nutrition Reauthorization bill (H.R. 8450). This bill will strengthen school meal access for students and support school meal providers in Nebraska and beyond. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to learn more and take action in support of this bill! - [Housing Advocates Ice Cream Social](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocates-ice-cream-social) - [Public Hearing for Minimum Wage Ballot Initiative](https://neappleseed.org/event/public-hearing-for-minimum-wage-ballot-initiative) - Join your fellow Nebraskans in sharing why you will vote FOR Initiative 433. - [Community Conversations: Improving Access to Health Care in Nebraska (English)](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-conversations-improving-access-to-health-care-in-nebraska-english) - Together, we will learn and share what challenges Nebraskans face in accessing health care and discuss and dream ways to improve health care access in Nebraska. - [Community Conversations: Improving Access to Health Care in Nebraska (English)](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-conversations-improving-access-to-health-care-in-nebraska-english-2) - Together, we will learn and share what challenges Nebraskans face in accessing health care and discuss and dream ways to improve health care access in Nebraska. - [Community Conversations: Improving Access to Health Care in Nebraska (Spanish)](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-conversations-improving-access-to-health-care-in-nebraska-spanish) - Together, we will learn and share what challenges Nebraskans face in accessing health care and discuss and dream ways to improve health care access in Nebraska. - [Community Conversations: Improving Access to Health Care in Nebraska (Spanish)](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-conversations-improving-access-to-health-care-in-nebraska-spanish-2) - Together, we will learn and share what challenges Nebraskans face in accessing health care and discuss and dream ways to improve health care access in Nebraska. - [Public Hearing for Minimum Wage Ballot Initiative](https://neappleseed.org/event/public-hearing-for-minimum-wage-ballot-initiative-2) - Join your fellow Nebraskans in sharing why you will vote FOR Initiative 433. - [Public Hearing on the Minimum Wage Initiative](https://neappleseed.org/event/public-hearing-on-the-minimum-wage-initiative) - Join your fellow Nebraskans in sharing why you will vote FOR Initiative 433. - [Presentation: Courts Matter to Voting Rights](https://neappleseed.org/event/presentation-courts-matter-to-voting-rights) - Join Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83524138840?pwd=Sk9WSWJrZzhzVFZXOWdCT3Zmbk5HQT09 - [Appleseed Appreciation Event](https://neappleseed.org/event/appleseed-appreciation-event) - NOTE: This event has moved to the Enclosed Shelter of Antelope Park. See map below. You’re invited to join us and other Nebraska Appleseed supporters and partners as we give thanks for you being an important part of our advocacy community. Come and enjoy Apple Cider Donuts from Kimmel Orchard and warm apple cider with - [Election Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/election-day) - For more information: neappleseed.org/vote DROP OFF BALLOT AT YOUR LOCAL COUNTY ELECTION OFFICE: Return your completed ballot by Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 8 pm CT / 7 pm MT. No stamp or postage necessary, but don’t forget to sign the envelope! VOTE EARLY: You can vote early in person at your county election office - [TOWN HALL WITH SENATOR MCKINNEY – RACISM AND DISPROPORTIONALITY IN NEBRASKA’S CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM](https://neappleseed.org/event/town-hall-with-senator-mckinney-racism-and-disproportionality-in-nebraskas-child-welfare-system) - Please join Nebraska Appleseed for a statewide Townhall and listening session on the issue of racism and disproportionality in Nebraska’s child welfare system. This is in conjunction with Sen. McKinney’s interim study (LR 404) on this issue. Parents, families, youth, community members, and partners are invited. If you have any questions, please contact Schalisha Walker - [Nebraska Child Health and Educators Alliance Conference](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-child-health-and-educators-alliance-conference) - Featuring remarks by: State Senator John Stinner, LD48 State Senator John Arch, LD14 Matt Blomstedt, Commissioner, Nebraska Department of Education Kevin Bagley, Director, Nebraska Health and Human Services, Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care Erin Schneider, Associate Director of External Affairs, Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska, UNMC Questions? Contact Aubrianna Faustman at afaustman@acgusa.net - [Take Action Tuesday](https://neappleseed.org/event/take-action-tuesday-3) - Join us in sharing our holiday housing wishes to our city council members! We want safe, quality, and affordable housing in Lincoln. This session will include information on what a Source of Income Anti-Discrimination Ordinance would mean for Lincoln. Don’t miss our in-person event as well! We’ll be writing Holiday Housing Cards, as part of - [Workshop: Making Your Voice Heard in State Government](https://neappleseed.org/event/workshop-making-your-voice-heard-in-state-government) - Your voice matters! Have you been wanting to start advocating for topics you are passionate about but don't know how? Join in this virtual workshop from Nebraska Appleseed to learn the best tips and tricks to engage with advocacy at the state level. This workshop is for ANYONE who is wanting to learn more about - [A Housing Advocate's Guide to the Legislative Session](https://neappleseed.org/event/a-housing-advocates-guide-to-the-legislative-session) - Join us virtually January 24th, 5:30 - 6:30 pm to learn more about our housing bill priorities introduced this legislative session and how we can advocate for them at the state level! We will discuss: Which housing bills we’re keeping track of How these housing bills would impact our community A timeline of when to - [Appleseed Mid-Session Mixer](https://neappleseed.org/event/appleseed-mid-session-mixer) - You’re invited to join Nebraska Appleseed and hear about important updates to the 2023 Legislative Session. Gather with other Nebraska change makers, get an update on Nebraska Appleseed's priority bills, and learn how you can get involved during the second half of the 2023 Legislative Session. Light refreshments will be provided and a cash bar - [Seed the Change - Round-up for Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/event/seed-the-change-round-up-for-appleseed) - One way Open Harvest Co-op Grocery lives out its cooperative values is through robust community donations. Nebraska Appleseed is thrilled to be selected as a part of Open Harvests’ Seed Program — a simple yet powerful community giving opportunity that allows customers to “round-up” their grocery bill. So during the month of April, stop by - [Take Action Tuesday: Protect SNAP for 10,000 Nebraskans!](https://neappleseed.org/event/take-action-tuesday-protect-snap-for-10000-nebraskans) - Join us in taking action to urge members of the Nebraska Legislature to support LB84, the SNAP Cliff Effect Sunset Elimination Bill. This legislation would keep food on the table for 10,000 Nebraskans who’d be left in the cold if SNAP eligibility reverts to what it was 3 years ago. We will walk through taking - [Community Event: Learn About Medicaid Changes](https://neappleseed.org/event/community-event-learn-about-medicaid-changes) - Medicaid renewals have restarted, and for the first time in years, people with Medicaid could lose their coverage as DHHS conducts renewals. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has identified that at least 145,000 Nebraskans may be at risk of losing their Medicaid coverage. Join us for an in-person community presentation and - [Give to Lincoln Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/give-to-lincoln-day) - Give to Lincoln Day is one of the biggest opportunities all year to make a huge impact on building a just, vibrant, and inclusive Nebraska. Contribute to Appleseed now through May 24th and your support not only increases a proportional match of $500,000 from Lincoln Community Foundation, but generous friends of Appleseed will also give - [Long Distance Advocacy Workshop](https://neappleseed.org/event/long-distance-advocacy-workshop) - Every Nebraskan should be able to make their voice heard on issues they care about. However, we know that for folks who live further from Lincoln or who lack reliable transportation, it can be hard to know how to make a difference on issues that affect our state. Join us on April 6 at 6:30 pm - [Volunteer hours: sign-making and phone calls for minimum wage and LGBTQIA+ support](https://neappleseed.org/event/volunteer-hours-sign-making-and-phone-calls-for-minimum-wage-and-lgbtqia-support) - We have a 2-for-1 volunteer opportunity with our friends at OutNebraska in the Raise the Wage Nebraska coalition. Join us to make calls for LGBTQ+ action or help us make signs to support minimum wage workers. You're welcome to join in both or either action. More info on the action/activities: OutNebraska will be hitting the - [Why Do People Have To Leave Their Countries?](https://neappleseed.org/event/why-do-people-have-to-leave-their-countries) - Why people have to flee: A conversation with Honduran water defender Reynaldo Dominguez. - [Nebraska Workers’ Memorial Day Vigil](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-workers-memorial-day-vigil) - Join this Nebraska vigil to honor Nebraskans injured or lost to workplace fatalities – as part of the nationwide Workers’ Memorial Day. Hosted by United Support and Memorial for Workplace Fatalities (USMWF). If you can’t attend in person, don’t forget to Shine Bright: Shine your porch lights on the night of Friday April 28th, from - [Take Action Tuesday: Protect Voting Access in Nebraska!](https://neappleseed.org/event/take-action-tuesday-protect-voting-access-in-nebraska) - Join us in taking action to urge our state senators to protect voting access in Nebraska. We will walk through taking the action together. All are welcome! - [Welcoming Convening Session 1: Welcoming Week Tips & Ideas](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-convening-session-1-welcoming-week-tips-ideas) - Join our (virtual) annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to hear from experienced local leaders, participate in workshops, and network with peers, all with - [Welcoming Convening Session 2: Ableism and Belonging](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-convening-session-2-ableism-and-belonging) - Join our (virtual) annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to hear from experienced local leaders, participate in workshops, and network with peers, all with - [Welcoming Convening Session 3: Building Capacity for Racial Equity & Justice](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-convening-session-3-building-capacity-for-racial-equity-justice) - Join our (virtual) annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to hear from experienced local leaders, participate in workshops, and network with peers, all with - [Welcoming Convening Session 4: Welcoming Week Kick Off!](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-convening-session-4-welcoming-week-kick-off) - Join our (virtual) annual statewide welcoming convening series – which brings together community leaders from all over Nebraska to share our experiences, insights, and strategies for building welcoming and inclusive communities. During these summer sessions, we will have the opportunity to hear from experienced local leaders, participate in workshops, and network with peers, all with - [Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/event/good-apple-awards-2) - Join Nebraska Appleseed as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans, and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. - [Nebraska Housing Advocates Grill Out](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-housing-advocates-grill-out) - Let's get together for a Housing Advocates Grill Out! Let’s come together to ignite connection and build transformative power among housing advocates across the state of Nebraska while having fun and sharing a meal together. Whether you're a seasoned housing advocate or new to the movement, we hope you join us! Together, we can strengthen - [Support Appleseed at Urban Abbey Throughout July!](https://neappleseed.org/event/support-appleseed-at-urban-abbey-throughout-july) - Urban Abbey partners with a different local nonprofit each month, donating 10% of coffee bar sales directly to the organization. Nebraska Appleseed is thrilled to be the Urban Abbey’s Community Partner for July! If you're in Omaha, stop by for some coffee or tea, and support our fight for justice! Thank you for supporting Appleseed - [Get Involved with the Paid Sick Leave Campaign!](https://neappleseed.org/event/get-involved-with-the-paid-sick-leave-campaign) - Join Nebraska Appleseed and the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans coalition to learn about the campaign to ensure every Nebraska worker can access paid sick leave! At this event, you’ll learn how you can get involved, make your voice heard, and help circulate petitions to put the paid sick leave petition initiative on the November - [Turn in Paid Sick Leave Signatures by August 30!](https://neappleseed.org/event/turn-in-paid-sick-leave-signatures-by-august-30) - We need a progress check! Knowing exactly how many signatures we now have for paid sick leave is very important to know if and how we need to adjust our field plan to meet our coalition goals. Please turn in all signatures you've collected so far by the end of the day on Wednesday, August - [Welcoming Week! Nebraska Events](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-week-nebraska-events) - Community members across Nebraska and the world are celebrating the values that unite us as neighbors, parents, and colleagues to make our communities more welcoming to all. Click here to find local events NEAR YOU! - [Rally for Trans Rights](https://neappleseed.org/event/rally-for-trans-rights) - On October 1st, certain restrictions on gender-affirming care resulting from the passage of LB 574 will go into effect. Join us on the steps of the Nebraska state capitol as we remind elected leaders that we have not forgotten how they voted against the rights of trans Nebraskans. You will hear remarks from trans youth, - [TIF Talk](https://neappleseed.org/event/tif-talk) - Join Collective Impact Lincoln and NeighborWorks Lincoln for a talk about TIF, aka Tax Increment Financing! We'll go over how TIF works, what it means for an area to be blighted and substandard, the but-for test and more! Transportation: The nearest bus stop to NeighborWorks Lincoln is located at 25th & Q. Limited parking is - [5th Annual United by Culture Festival](https://neappleseed.org/event/5th-annual-united-by-culture-festival) - United By Culture Media aims to build a positive cultural identity among people of color living in the heartland. The festival is designed to inspire, educate and connect people from all walks of life. The 2023 United By Culture Festival promises to be an immersive experience. Whether you are a parent, young adult, organization, or - [Legislative Graveyard Event](https://neappleseed.org/event/legislative-graveyard-event) - Join us for an evening of legislative insights and spooky fun! Our mission is to cast a spell of enlightenment over some fiendish legislative matters. - [Housing Advocates Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocates-potluck) - Hey neighbors! Join us to connect with other housing advocates around Lincoln and explore ways we can use our collective power to strengthen Lincoln! This potluck is for Lincolnites who care about affordable, safe, and accessible housing to get to know one another and discuss housing topics that are important to them and that may - [An Honest Community Convo on Access to Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/event/an-honest-community-convo-on-access-to-health-care) - Please join us in Lincoln for an in-person community conversation about health care access! This is an opportunity to learn more about our communities' needs. - [Issue Cafe: Paid Sick Leave](https://neappleseed.org/event/issue-cafe-paid-sick-leave) - Join Omaha Together One Community, Urban Abbey, and Nebraska Appleseed for a discussion on the ballot measure campaign for Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans. - [Rally for Source of Income Protections in Lincoln](https://neappleseed.org/event/rally-for-source-of-income-protections-in-lincoln) - The Coalition for Source of Income Protections in Housing has been collecting signatures of Lincolnites on our petition. We are planning to submit the petition and signatures to the City Council on Monday, December 18 at their council meeting that evening. In advance of that meeting, we will also be holding a press conference and - [How to Make Your Voice Heard in Nebraska’s Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/event/how-to-make-your-voice-heard-in-nebraskas-legislature) - Advocating for the first time can feel like a huge step, but you don't have to learn the many ways you can engage in Nebraska policy changes alone! Join us and others from the community on Tuesday, January 16 from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM CT for a virtual beginner’s workshop highlighting how you can - [Housing Advocates Guide to the Legislative Session](https://neappleseed.org/cil-guide-24) - Join Collective Impact Lincoln (a partnership between Nebraska Appleseed and Civic Nebraska) to learn about housing bills this session and how you can advocate for affordable, accessible, and safe housing! We will discuss: Which housing bills we’re keeping track of How these housing bills would impact our community How and when to advocate for these - [Workshop: How to Advocate for Food Bills in the 2024 NE Legislature](https://neappleseed.org/event/workshop-how-to-advocate-for-food-bills-in-the-2024-ne-legislature) - Join us on Wednesday, January 30th from 6:30-7:45 CT to learn about the food access bills that have been introduced in the Nebraska Legislature for 2024. - [Conservation Nebraska Community Organizing Training](https://neappleseed.org/event/conservation-nebraska-community-organizing-training) - Organizers from Collective Impact Lincoln, Conservation Nebraska, and Nebraska Civic Engagement Table will share how to organize yourself and your neighbors and how to participate in local government. - [2024 Housing Affordability & Justice Lobby Day](https://neappleseed.org/event/2024-housing-affordability-justice-lobby-day) - 2024's Housing Affordability & Justice Lobby Day is an inclusive advocacy event designed to address key housing issues in Nebraska. - [Mid-Session Mixer](https://neappleseed.org/event/mid-session-mixer) - Gather with Nebraska Appleseed, Voices for Children in Nebraska, and the Women's Fund of Omaha to get to know other Nebraska change makers, get an update on the 2024 Nebraska Legislative session, and learn how you can get involved! Light refreshments will be provided. A cash bar will be available. Click here to register! - [Paid Sick Leave Community Listening Hour](https://neappleseed.org/event/paid-sick-leave-community-listening-hour) - Join us for a community conversation about access to paid sick leave. You will have an opportunity to share your experience and learn about ways to share your story to support the Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans Campaign. Click here to register! - [Housing Advocate Workshop: Code Enforcement](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-workshop-code-enforcement) - Join fellow Lincoln Housing Advocates as we learn from Sean Stewart with the Lincoln Building & Safety Department about code enforcement basics, the review process, and questions they frequently receive from the community. Lincoln Housing Advocate's goal is to promote and support systems that provide affordable, accessible, and safe housing for all! Contact Chelsea Egenberger - [Demystifying Health Care Access in Our Nebraska Communities](https://neappleseed.org/event/demystifying-health-care-access-in-our-nebraska-communities) - Let’s talk about health, resources, and community well-being. On Saturday, April 27, we’ll be with our friends and partners at 3Sisters for an honest community conversation about health care resources available to you, and to discuss strategies for enhancing overall health and wellness in our communities. Why “Demystifying”? Demystifying health care access involves breaking down the barriers - [Housing Advocate Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-potluck) - Join us to connect with other advocates around Lincoln over a shared meal and guided group discussion to explore ways we can use our collective power. - [Appleseed Post-Session Happy Hour](https://neappleseed.org/event/appleseed-post-session-happy-hour) - You’re invited to gather with Nebraska Appleseed and other advocates for a post-session happy hour! We’ll recap the 2024 legislative session and share how you can get involved on two key ballot initiative campaigns: Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans and Protect Our Rights. Appleseed Post-Session Happy Hour Wednesday, May 1, 2024 Casual come and go - [Medicaid Renewal Community Conversation](https://neappleseed.org/event/medicaid-renewal-community-conversation) - Join our Medicaid Renewal Community Conversation on Saturday, May 11th, from 12-1:30 pm at Essential Gathering Place: 5001 N 42nd St, Omaha. - [Housing Advocate Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/housing-advocate-potluck-2) - Join Lincoln Housing Advocates for our May gathering! We'll hear from Hoppe Development & NeighborWorks Lincoln about how they develop affordable housing. - [Welcoming Summer Convening Session 1: We’re All In for Belonging & Welcoming Week 2024](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-summer-convening-session-1-were-all-in-for-belonging-welcoming-week-2024) - We’ll share tips for hosting neighbor-to-neighbor events & building strong inclusion practices any time, & especially as we prepare for Welcoming Week 2024! - [Welcoming Summer Convening Session 2: We’re All In for Language Access](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-summer-convening-session-2-were-all-in-for-language-access) - We’ll learn the significance of Language Access, best practices and resources, and where to start with a plan to provide more equitable access to services. - [Welcoming Summer Convening Session 3: We’re All In for Lived Expertise on Local Boards](https://neappleseed.org/event/welcoming-summer-convening-session-3-were-all-in-for-lived-expertise-on-local-boards) - What are the expectations & duties of board members? How will a board receive new ideas? We’ll explore how to prepare new board members & the boards themselves. - [Pride Housing Advocate Potluck](https://neappleseed.org/event/pride-housing-advocate-potluck) - Join us to connect with other advocates over a shared meal and guided group discussion to explore ways we can use our collective power to strengthen Lincoln! - [Nebraska Summer EBT 2024: What to Expect and How to Help](https://neappleseed.org/event/nebraska-summer-ebt-2024-what-to-expect-and-how-to-help) - This is the first year of Nebraska’s Summer EBT program! Join Kayte Partch, NDE's Director of Nutrition Services, and Eric Savaiano, Nebraska Appleseed's Food and Nutrition Access Program Manager, to walk through program details, eligibility, helpful resources, and how to get the word out in your community. This webinar will be recorded. Register | Facebook - [Good Apple Awards](https://neappleseed.org/event/good-apple-awards-3) - Join us for Nebraska Appleseed’s annual Good Apple Awards as we honor people who stand up for justice for all Nebraskans and celebrate the year’s accomplishments. ## Downloads - [Always Working Beyond the Capacity of Our Bodies (MCHR Report)](https://neappleseed.org/download/16212/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Unsafe at These Speeds Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/51442/?tmstv=1786401960) - [WORK SPEED PETITION TO OSHA AND USDA](https://neappleseed.org/download/51436/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025 Financial Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/51411/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAP Open House North Platte 08-2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/51403/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAP Open House Grand Island 08-2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/51401/?tmstv=1786401960) - [RNC Case Study 2026 Fairbury Public Schools](https://neappleseed.org/download/51355/?tmstv=1786401960) - [[SPANISH] Medicaid Work Requirements Postcard (2026)](https://neappleseed.org/download/51302/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Welcoming - Emily Baird Presentation](https://neappleseed.org/download/51281/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Welcoming - EF Barometer of Belonging Presentation](https://neappleseed.org/download/51279/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Session 2, Welcoming Convening 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/51273/?tmstv=1786401960) - [SNAP Basics and FAQs](https://neappleseed.org/download/40301/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Fall 2026 Economic Justice Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/51266/?tmstv=1786401960) - [[Internal] Learning Lab: Belonging Barometer](https://neappleseed.org/download/51257/?tmstv=1786401960) - [RNC Fact Sheet - Potential Sponsors](https://neappleseed.org/download/49623/?tmstv=1786401960) - [West Point Public Schools SFSP RNC Case Study 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/51226/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAP Medicaid Work Requirements Postcard](https://neappleseed.org/download/50829/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAP Medicaid Work Requirements FAQ](https://neappleseed.org/download/50991/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Unpacking the Medicaid Unwind - Policy Brief](https://neappleseed.org/download/51158/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAN Flow Chart: Medicaid Work Requirements: Does this apply to me?](https://neappleseed.org/download/51155/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB1032 (2026) Fact Sheet - POST PASSAGE - PROFESSIONALS](https://neappleseed.org/download/51152/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2026 Welcoming Session 1 - Roots of Justice](https://neappleseed.org/download/51110/?tmstv=1786401960) - [FFG Opposition One Pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/51098/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025-2026 Child Welfare & Juvenile Justice Legislation Chart](https://neappleseed.org/download/48828/?tmstv=1786401960) - [HCAN Flow Chart: Medicaid Work Requirements: Does this apply to me?](https://neappleseed.org/download/50953/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Free and No Cost Meal Options](https://neappleseed.org/download/50789/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Alternative Breakfast Options](https://neappleseed.org/download/50787/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Neec Bowyer Good Trouble Fellowship Description 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/50772/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Immigrants & Communities Program Photo Highlights 2025-26](https://neappleseed.org/download/50759/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2026 ICP Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/50731/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2026 HCAP Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/50729/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2026 Communications Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/50727/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/50721/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB1032 (2026) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/50629/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Immigrant Protection Rapid Response Fund (2026)](https://neappleseed.org/download/50586/?tmstv=1786401960) - [SFSP Social Media](https://neappleseed.org/download/48911/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Fact Sheet LB926 (2026) - ADC Time Limit](https://neappleseed.org/download/50540/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Minutes - Q4 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/50537/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Materials - Q4 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/50535/?tmstv=1786401960) - [BOD State Senator Contact Information](https://neappleseed.org/download/34376/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Roster](https://neappleseed.org/download/32079/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Standard of Need and Payment Maximums for ADC (2025-2027)](https://neappleseed.org/download/50527/?tmstv=1786401960) - [This Quarter In Pictures - Q4 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/50450/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Strategic Plan Progress Update - Q4 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/50448/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Agenda - Q1 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/50446/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Materials - Q1 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/50444/?tmstv=1786401960) - [RNC Best Practices Fact Sheet 2026](https://neappleseed.org/download/50326/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Summer 2025 Nebraska Medicaid Dental Snapshot](https://neappleseed.org/download/50298/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nutrition Staff Breakfast Fact Sheet 2-Pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/40687/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Teacher Breakfast Fact Sheet 2-Pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/40691/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Administrators Breakfast Fact Sheet 2-Pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/40695/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Parent/Caregiver Breakfast Fact Sheet 2-Pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/40699/?tmstv=1786401960) - [NE School Breakfast Playbook](https://neappleseed.org/download/41109/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Form 990 - 2024](https://neappleseed.org/download/50276/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Materials 2025 - Q3](https://neappleseed.org/download/50161/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Minutes 2025 - Q1](https://neappleseed.org/download/50159/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Minutes 2024 - Q4](https://neappleseed.org/download/50157/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Meeting Minutes 2025 - Q2](https://neappleseed.org/download/50155/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Appleseed Employee Handbook](https://neappleseed.org/download/31858/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Appleseed Org Chart](https://neappleseed.org/download/31861/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Committee List](https://neappleseed.org/download/35264/?tmstv=1786401960) - [DHHS OBBB SNAP Eligibility Flyers - ZIP](https://neappleseed.org/download/50031/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Plantilla de Solicitud de Condonación de Sobrepago de SNAP](https://neappleseed.org/download/49794/?tmstv=1786401960) - [ICE Petition Comments](https://neappleseed.org/download/49753/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Filyaw 8th Circuit Opinion](https://neappleseed.org/download/49748/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Warriors’ Palate Catering Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, and Bison Meatball Soup](https://neappleseed.org/download/49720/?tmstv=1786401960) - [RNC Case Study Kearney Public Schools 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49621/?tmstv=1786401960) - [RNC Case Study Crete Public Schools 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49619/?tmstv=1786401960) - [SNAP Administrative Appeals Online Format - Spanish](https://neappleseed.org/download/41327/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Vietnamese](https://neappleseed.org/download/49609/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Vietnamese](https://neappleseed.org/download/49607/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Somali](https://neappleseed.org/download/49605/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Somali](https://neappleseed.org/download/49603/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Pashto](https://neappleseed.org/download/49601/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Pashto](https://neappleseed.org/download/49599/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Karen](https://neappleseed.org/download/49597/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Karen](https://neappleseed.org/download/49595/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - French](https://neappleseed.org/download/49593/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - French](https://neappleseed.org/download/49591/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Dari](https://neappleseed.org/download/49589/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Dari](https://neappleseed.org/download/49587/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Consolidated 2022-23 Nebraska Appleseed Dental Policy Brief](https://neappleseed.org/download/49580/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities: Dream & Promise Letter July 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49577/?tmstv=1786401960) - [APTC Fact Sheet 07/2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49532/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2024 Financial Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/49519/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Arabic](https://neappleseed.org/download/49455/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Arabic](https://neappleseed.org/download/49453/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - Spanish](https://neappleseed.org/download/49447/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - Spanish](https://neappleseed.org/download/49445/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Responding to Hate Crimes - English](https://neappleseed.org/download/49443/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Bullying - English](https://neappleseed.org/download/49441/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Congress Passed SNAP Cuts Nebraska Summary](https://neappleseed.org/download/49392/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Federal Policy Lunch & Learn 07/08/2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49406/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Fall 2025 Immigrants & Communities Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/49324/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Fall 2025 Economic Justice Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/49322/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Fall 2025 Community Assistance Line Internship Description](https://neappleseed.org/download/49320/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Statement - NE Alliance for Thriving Communities - Worksite Enforcement Actions 06/20/2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/49292/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025 Legislative Bills - 1 pager + Spanish](https://neappleseed.org/download/49277/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Board Policies](https://neappleseed.org/download/32809/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Summer EBT Outreach Toolkit 2024](https://neappleseed.org/download/49014/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025 MXP Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/48965/?tmstv=1786401960) - [GBAO Public One Pager (PSL)](https://neappleseed.org/download/48963/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB79 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48933/?tmstv=1786401960) - [How to Become an SFSP Sponsor](https://neappleseed.org/download/44261/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Health Care Access Internship - Summer 2025](https://neappleseed.org/download/48783/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Appleseed Immigrants & Communities Program Photo Highlights](https://neappleseed.org/download/48758/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Nebraska Appleseed Bylaws](https://neappleseed.org/download/31867/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2024 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/48699/?tmstv=1786401960) - [NE Alliance for Thriving Communities - Policy Principles](https://neappleseed.org/download/48677/?tmstv=1786401960) - [NE Alliance for Thriving Communities - Short Summary](https://neappleseed.org/download/48620/?tmstv=1786401960) - [NE Alliance for Thriving Communities - Legislature Backgrounder](https://neappleseed.org/download/48618/?tmstv=1786401960) - [NE Alliance - Nebraska Examples of Impact - Outdated Immigration Laws](https://neappleseed.org/download/48615/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Standard of Need and Payment Maximums for ADC (2023-2025)](https://neappleseed.org/download/48546/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB102 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48544/?tmstv=1786401960) - [2025 Legislative Bills - 1 pager + Span DRB](https://neappleseed.org/download/48542/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Legislative Priorities Handout (2025)](https://neappleseed.org/download/48442/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB192 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48414/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB319 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48411/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB656 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48409/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB299 (2025) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/48407/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Federal Health Care Fact Sheet (01/2025)](https://neappleseed.org/download/48373/?tmstv=1786401960) - [LB102 (2025) Support Template](https://neappleseed.org/download/48367/?tmstv=1786401960) - [Kids Count NE 2023](https://neappleseed.org/download/48334/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Board Meeting Materials 2024 - Q4](https://neappleseed.org/download/48323/?tmstv=1786401961) - 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[Nebraska Appleseed Program Fact Sheets](https://neappleseed.org/download/31864/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable New Board Member Questionnaire NE Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/download/33680/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable Appleseed Fundraising Participation 2020](https://neappleseed.org/download/33668/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable Conflict of Interest Form NE Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/download/33677/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable Code of Ethics Signature Page NE Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/download/33674/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable Board Member Commitment Form NE Appleseed](https://neappleseed.org/download/33671/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Fillable Advocacy Participation Form](https://neappleseed.org/download/33665/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2016 Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/23136/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2017 Financial Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/23952/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Financial Audit (2018)](https://neappleseed.org/download/27115/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2019 Financial Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/31383/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2020 Financial Audit](https://neappleseed.org/download/34974/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Form 990 - 2016](https://neappleseed.org/download/23130/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Form 990 - 2017](https://neappleseed.org/download/23949/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Form 990 - 2018](https://neappleseed.org/download/27112/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Form 990 - 2019](https://neappleseed.org/download/33317/?tmstv=1786401961) - [Form 990 - 2020](https://neappleseed.org/download/38631/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2017 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/24018/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2020 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/35504/?tmstv=1786401961) - [2018 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/27903/?tmstv=1786401962) - [GOTV Primary Postcard (2022)](https://neappleseed.org/download/39272/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Legislation Chart Q32021](https://neappleseed.org/download/38624/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Board Meeting Minutes 2021 Q3](https://neappleseed.org/download/38623/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Board Meeting Minutes 2021 Q2](https://neappleseed.org/download/38622/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Board Meeting Materials 2021 Q3](https://neappleseed.org/download/38621/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Board Meeting Materials 2021 Q2](https://neappleseed.org/download/38620/?tmstv=1786401962) - [LB1061 (2020) Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/36823/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Meant to Represent 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36759/?tmstv=1786401962) - [UN Board of Regents Letter - Race Equity](https://neappleseed.org/download/36693/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Nebraska SNAP Income Limit Increase Fact Sheet (2021)](https://neappleseed.org/download/36756/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Sidney Equity 2 pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/38625/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bayard Equity 2 pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/37925/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Morrill Equity 2 pager](https://neappleseed.org/download/38626/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Adams Central Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35952/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ainsworth City School Equity Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35955/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Allen Consolidated Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35958/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Alliance Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35961/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Alma Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35964/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Amherst Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35967/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Anselmo-Merna Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35970/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ansley Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35973/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Arapahoe Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35976/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Arcadia Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35979/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Arlington Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35982/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Arnold Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35985/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ashland Greenwood School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35988/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Auburn Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35991/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Aurora Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35994/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Axtell Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/35997/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bancroft-Rosalie School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36000/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Banner County School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36003/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Battle Creek Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36006/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bayard Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36009/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Beatrice Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36012/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bellevue Pubic Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36015/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bennington Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36018/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bertrand Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36021/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Blair Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36024/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bloomfield School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36027/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Blue Hill School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36030/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Boone Central District 1 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36033/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Boyd County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36036/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Brady Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36039/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bridgeport Public School 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36042/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Broken Bow Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36045/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Bruning-Davenport Unified System Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36048/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Burwell Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36051/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Callaway Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36054/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Cambridge Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36057/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Cedar Bluffs Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36060/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Central City Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36063/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Central Valley Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36066/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Centura Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36070/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Chadron City Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36073/?tmstv=1786401962) - Chadron City Schools Dawes County - [Chambers Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36075/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Chase County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36078/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Clarkson Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36081/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Cody-Kilgore Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36084/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Columbus Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36087/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Conestoga Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36090/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Cozad Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36093/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Crawford Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36096/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Creek Valley Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36099/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Creighton Community Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36102/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Crete Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36105/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Cross County Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36108/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Deshler Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36111/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Diller-Odell Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36114/?tmstv=1786401962) - [District 11 Area Schools](https://neappleseed.org/download/36117/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Doniphan-Trumbull Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36120/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Dorchester Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36123/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Douglas County West Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36126/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Dundy County Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36130/?tmstv=1786401962) - [East Butler Public School Equity Data Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36133/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elba Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36136/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elgin Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36139/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elkhorn Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36142/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elkhorn Valley Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36145/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elm Creek Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36148/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elmwood-Murdock School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36151/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Elwood Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36154/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Emerson-Hubbard Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36157/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #1 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36160/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #13 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36163/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #2 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36167/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #3 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36170/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #4 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36174/?tmstv=1786401962) - [ESU #8 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36177/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Eustis-Farnam Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36180/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ewing Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36184/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Fairbury Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36187/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Falls City Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36190/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Fillmore County School District Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36193/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Fort Calhoun Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36196/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Franklin Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36199/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Freeman Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36202/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Fremont Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36205/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Friend Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36208/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Fullerton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36211/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Garden County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36214/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Gering Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36217/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Gibbon Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36220/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Giltner Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36223/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Gordon-Rushville Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36226/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Gothenburg Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36229/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Grand Island Public Schools](https://neappleseed.org/download/36232/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Gretna Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36235/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hampton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36238/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hartington-Newcastle Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36241/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Harvard Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36244/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hastings Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36247/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hay Springs Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36250/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hayes Center Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36253/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Heartland Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36256/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hemingford Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36260/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hershey Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36263/?tmstv=1786401962) - [High Plains Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36266/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Hitchcock County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36269/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Holdrege Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36272/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Homer Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36275/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Howells-Dodge Consolidated School District Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36278/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Humboldt/Tablerock-Steinauer Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36281/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Humphrey Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36284/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Johnson County Central Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36287/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Johnson-Brock Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36290/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Kearney Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36293/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Kenesaw Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36296/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Keya Paha County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36299/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Kimball Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36302/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Lakeview Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36305/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Laurel-Concord-Coleridge School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36308/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Leigh Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36311/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Lewiston Consolidated Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36314/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Lexington Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36317/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Leyton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36320/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Lincoln Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36323/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Litchfield Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36326/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Logan View Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36329/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Loomis Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36332/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Louisville Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36335/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Loup City Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36338/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Loup County Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36341/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Lyons-Decatur N.E. School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36344/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Madison Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36347/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Malcolm Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36350/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Maxwell Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36353/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Maywood Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36356/?tmstv=1786401962) - [McCool Junction Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36359/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Mead Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36362/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Medicine Valley School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36365/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Meridan Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36368/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Milford Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36371/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Millard Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36375/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Minatare Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36378/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Mitchell Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36381/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Morrill Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36385/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Mullen Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36388/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Nebr. Unified District 1](https://neappleseed.org/download/36391/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Nebraska City Schools Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36394/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Neligh-Oakdale School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36397/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Nelson Mandela Elementary School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36400/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Newman Grove Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36403/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Niobrara Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36406/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Norfolk Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36409/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Norris Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36412/?tmstv=1786401962) - [North Bend Central Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36415/?tmstv=1786401962) - [North Platte Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36418/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Northwest Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36421/?tmstv=1786401962) - [O'Neill Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36424/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Oakland-Craig Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36427/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ogallala Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36430/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Omaha Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36433/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ord Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36436/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Osceola Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36439/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Osmond Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36442/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Overton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36445/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Palmer Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36448/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Palmyra District OR 1 School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36451/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Papillion-La Vista School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36454/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Pawnee City Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36457/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Paxton Consolidated School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36460/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Pender Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36464/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Perkins County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36467/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Pierce Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36470/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Plainview Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36473/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Plattsmouth Comm. School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36476/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Pleasanton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36479/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ponca Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36482/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Potter-Dix Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36485/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ralston Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36488/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Randolph Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/36491/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Ravenna Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36494/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Raymond Central Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36497/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Red Cloud Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36500/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Riverside Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36503/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Rock County Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36506/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Sandhills Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36509/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Santee Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36513/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Schuyler Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36516/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Scottsbluff Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36519/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Seward Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36522/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Shelby-Rising City Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36525/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Shelton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36528/?tmstv=1786401962) - [Shickley Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36531/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Sidney Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36535/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Silver Lake Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36538/?tmstv=1786401963) - [South Central Nebraska Unified District #5 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36541/?tmstv=1786401963) - [South Platte Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36544/?tmstv=1786401963) - [South Sarpy School District 46 Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36547/?tmstv=1786401963) - [South Sioux City School District Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36550/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Southern Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36553/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Southern Valley Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36556/?tmstv=1786401963) - [St. Edward Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36559/?tmstv=1786401963) - [St. Paul Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36563/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Stanton Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36566/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Stapleton Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36570/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Sterling Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36573/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Stuart Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36577/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Sumner Eddyville Miller School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36580/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Superior Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36583/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Sutherland Public School Equity Fact Check 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36586/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Sutton Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36590/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36593/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Tekamah-Herman Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36596/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Thayer Central Community School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36599/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Thedford Rural High School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36603/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Tri County Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36606/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Twin River Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36609/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Umo 'ho' Nation Public Schools](https://neappleseed.org/download/36612/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Valentine Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36615/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wahoo Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36618/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wakefield Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36621/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wallace School District 65R](https://neappleseed.org/download/36624/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Walthill Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36627/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wauneta-Palisade Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36630/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wausa Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36633/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Waverly Public School District](https://neappleseed.org/download/36636/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wayne Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36639/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Weeping Water Public School Equity Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/download/36642/?tmstv=1786401963) - [West Holt Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36646/?tmstv=1786401963) - [West Point Public School Equity Fact Check 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36649/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Westside Community Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36652/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wheeler Central Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36655/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wilber-Clatonia Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36658/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wilcox-Hildreth School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36661/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Winnebago Public School Equity Fact Check 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36665/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Winside Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36668/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wisner-Pilger Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36672/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wood River Rural Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36675/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Wynot Public School Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36678/?tmstv=1786401963) - [York Public Schools Equity Facts Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36681/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Yutan Public Schools Equity Fact Sheet 2021](https://neappleseed.org/download/36684/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Nebraska School Nutrition Equity Report 2022](https://neappleseed.org/download/38046/?tmstv=1786401963) - [COVID Best Practices for Nutrition Directors](https://neappleseed.org/download/34675/?tmstv=1786401963) - [COVID State Waiver Policy Recommendations](https://neappleseed.org/download/34678/?tmstv=1786401963) - [NE Breakfast Report 2018-2019](https://neappleseed.org/download/29864/?tmstv=1786401963) - [NE Breakfast Report Data by School District 2018-2019](https://neappleseed.org/download/38690/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Medicaid Expansion Timeline 2022](https://neappleseed.org/download/38159/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Primary Key Dates 2022 English and Spanish](https://neappleseed.org/download/38110/?tmstv=1786401963) - [“When We’re Dead and Buried, Our Bones Will Keep Hurting” Workers’ Rights Under Threat in US Meat and Poultry Plants](https://neappleseed.org/download/30598/?tmstv=1786401963) - [2016 Annual Report](https://neappleseed.org/download/23133/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Public Comments on the USDA’s proposed new poultry rule](https://neappleseed.org/download/17893/?tmstv=1786401963) - [Letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Vilsack calling for worker safeguards](https://neappleseed.org/download/17888/?tmstv=1786401963) - 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[We Count](https://neappleseed.org/tag/we-count) - [25th anniversary](https://neappleseed.org/tag/25th-anniversary) - [Paid Sick Leave](https://neappleseed.org/tag/paid-sick-leave) - [Food Access](https://neappleseed.org/tag/food-access) ## Download Tags - [Economic Justice](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=economic-justice) - [Child Welfare](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=child-welfare) - [Health Care](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=health-care) - [Immigrants & Communities](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=immigrants-communities) - [Meatpacking](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=meatpacking) - [Worker Safety](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=worker-safety) - [Brochure](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=brochure) - [Report](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=report) - [Fact Sheet](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=fact-sheet) - [Medicaid](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=medicaid) - [Breakfast](https://neappleseed.org/?dlm_download_tag=breakfast) - 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