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

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is seeking volunteer hunger relief teams as the number of meals served continues to grow in response to rising need in the Lincoln community.

Matt Talbot, Lincoln’s only community kitchen and day center for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty, serves nutritious lunch and dinner meals every day of the year. On average, 283 meals prepared onsite are served daily, and demand continues to increase.

In 2025, Matt Talbot provided more than 263,000 meals through onsite meal service and the Fresh Choice Pantry—representing a 13% increase in dining room meals compared to the previous year. The kitchen has already seen a 25% increase in onsite meals when comparing January 2025 to January 2026.

“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 meal teams to ensure everyone who walks through our doors is met with dignity and a warm meal.”

Meals are served cafeteria-style in Matt Talbot’s dining room or available to-go. Volunteer teams typically help 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 Matt Talbot reduce food costs and invest more in housing and case management services.

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

·       Sides & Serve: Teams provide side dishes while Matt Talbot prepares the main entrée, allowing for partial coverage of meal costs.

Faith communities, businesses, families, and civic groups are encouraged to volunteer.

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.