Matt Talbot Celebrates at Annual Dinner “Feeding the Soul of the City”!

Matt Talbot Celebrates at Annual Dinner “Feeding the Soul of the City”!

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach (MTKO) hosted its annual Feeding the Soul of the City dinner and fundraising event on March 8, 2012 on the Main Stage of the Lied Center for Performing Arts. Compassion in Action awards were presented to Senator Mike and Mrs. Stephanie Johanns for their hands-on support and compassion during the Witness to HOPE capital campaign to relocate the center, and to the Lincoln Police Department’s Center Team for their years of providing safety and support for the vulnerable population served by Matt Talbot. The Johanns were unable to attend but provided a video recording of their gracious remarks. Senator Johann’s daughter, Michaela Johanns Young, accepted the award on their behalf. Captain Bob Kawamoto accepted on behalf of the Lincoln Police Department Center Team.  Police Chief Jim Peschong was in attendance as well.  The evening concluded with a lively and enjoyable performance by The Bathtub Dogs, UNL’s all male a cappella group.

Because of the generosity of the 45 corporate and individual sponsors, the 300 guests who attended, and the many who gave donations prior to the event, Matt Talbot raised a record setting $74,000. “We are so thankful for the support of the community. The unprecedented success of this year’s event will help us sustain our operations 365 days a year. This truly was a celebration of compassion, community, and collaboration.” said Susanne Blue, Executive Director.

The needs are certainly great right now. Last year MTKO experienced an increase in demand for all services with over 100,000 meals and over 20,000 outreach and homeless prevention services provided. A new Substance Abuse outreach program has been developed this past year as well. We are thankful to be able to meet these most basic human needs and to prevent homelessness in our community. Please take a minute to visit our revamped website at www.mtkserves.org to learn in more detail about our positive mission of help, healing, and hope.

Thank you and God bless you for your generosity and compassion!

Announcing the 2012 Compassion in Action Award Winners:

Substance Abuse Program Sponsor

Hunger Relief Sponsor

Life Skills Training Sponsor

Homeless Identification
Project Sponsor

Kids CAFÉ Sponsor