Nebraska school awarded $2,500 to beef up Little Free Pantry
Immanuel Lutheran in Columbus is the latest recipient of the Cash in for Schools award.
COLUMBUS, Neb. —
Students at Immanuel Lutheran School in Columbus are addressing food insecurity in their community with a free pantry initiative, supported by a $2,500 grant from KETV and Thrasher Foundation Repair.
“I want to thank you for this opportunity,” said principal Natalie Evans “It’s such a great learning chance and wonderful service to our community.”
Immanuel Lutheran is the September winner of our Cash in for Schools Grant, sponsored by Thrasher Foundation Repair.
The pantry, located outside the school, is a student-led and student-built project that started with former 7th graders (current 8th graders) last spring. It launched this summer.
The students also track and stock items, which are available to anyone in the community.
“We made this pantry to help people who need food and also to demonstrate respect for the kids in the school,” said 8th grader Carter Cooney.
Another student called it an extension of their faith.
“We wanted to show a bunch of people Jesus’ love and to show we care for the community,” said 8th grader Reese Barnett.
The grant will primarily be used to keep the pantry stocked with food and hygiene items. In Nebraska, one in seven people experience food insecurity.
“It should keep the pantry going for a long time, and we’re very excited about that,” Evans said.
We’re still looking for more $2,500 winners for the 2026-2027 school year. Click here to apply!
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