Matt Talbot Kitchen Seeks Volunteers as Meal Demand Continues to Rise
February 23, 2026

(LINCOLN, NE) - Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is seeking volunteer hunger relief teams as the number of meals served grows in response to rising community need.

As Lincoln’s only community kitchen and day center for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty, Matt Talbot serves nutritious lunch and dinner meals every day. On average, 283 meals are prepared and served daily, and that number continues to climb.

In 2025, Matt Talbot provided more than 263,000 meals through onsite meals and its Fresh Choice Pantry, a 13% increase in dining room meals compared to the previous year. Comparing January 2025 to January 2026, Fresh Choice Pantry visits more than doubled and onsite meals increased by 25%.

“Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do,” said Alynn Sampson, executive director. “As more neighbors turn to us for support, we rely on the generosity of volunteer teams to ensure everyone who walks through our doors is met with dignity, compassion, and a warm meal.”

Meals are served cafeteria style in Matt Talbot’s dining room. Volunteers typically prepare and serve meals, with staff providing guidance on menu planning and access to USDA food.

Matt Talbot has several recurring openings for meal teams in 2026, as well as opportunities for one-time volunteer service. Volunteer teams may choose from three options:

·       Provide, Prepare & Serve: Teams purchase ingredients, prepare the meal, and serve it. This option helps reduce food costs and allows more funding to support housing and case management services.

·       Pay & Serve: Teams make a $300 donation to cover food costs; staff prepare the meal while volunteers serve.

·       Sides & Serve: Teams provide side dishes while Matt Talbot prepares the main entrée.

Community groups are encouraged to schedule as soon as possible.

To learn more or inquire about open volunteer dates, contact Victoria O’Neil, Director of Hunger Relief and Volunteerism, at victoria.oneil@mtko.org or 402-817-0623.

For information about making a monetary donation in support of the hunger relief program, contact Lori Wellman, Director of Development, at lori.wellman@mtko.org or 402-817-0621.