Join the Omaha World-Herald and United Way of the Midlands to make a difference in our community
Omaha World-Herald and United Way of the Midlands have proudly served our community for more than 100 years.
Since the 1890s, Goodfellows has been a pillar of support for individuals and families in need across the Omaha metro area. The Goodfellows program raises funds to provide critical assistance to those facing hardships. From offering emergency financial relief and helping ensure families stay in their homes to ensuring they have the necessities they need,
Goodfellows is committed to providing a helping hand and making a lasting impact in our community.
Together, we can uplift our neighbors in need — because no one should face tough times alone.
Meet the Partners
The Goodfellows program in Omaha has a rich history rooted in community compassion and generosity. Founded by the Omaha World-Herald in the 1890s, Goodfellows began as a holiday-driven initiative to support families in need, especially those affected by hardship, poverty or other challenging circumstances. What started as seasonal assistance soon evolved into a year-round commitment to provide emergency assistance to Omaha residents.
Throughout its history, Goodfellows has remained a trusted source of support offering help with basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter and medical expenses. Its impact has grown significantly over the decades, thanks partly to the unwavering support from the Omaha World-Herald’s readers, who have consistently contributed to its fundraising efforts.
In 2020, United Way of the Midlands joined forces with the Omaha World-Herald to expand Goodfellows’ reach and effectiveness. This partnership has allowed Goodfellows to provide even more robust support to those facing hardship, leveraging United Way’s resources and expertise to address pressing community needs better. Today, Goodfellows stands as a testament to the power of community-driven philanthropy, continuing its legacy of helping Omaha’s most vulnerable residents with dignity and compassion.
Our Impact
Rent, mortgage and utility support for more than
58% for utilities aid
42% for housing support
Purchased
which provided a monthly supplement to 1,100 children
More than
for local families in need
Shoes, coats and clothing for more than
at 76 schools
The Omaha World-Herald: A Legacy of Community Support
For more than a century, the Omaha World-Herald (OWH) has been a pillar of the Omaha community, dedicated not only to delivering trusted news but also to uplifting those in need. With deep local roots, the OWH has consistently invested in initiatives that support families, address urgent needs and promote resilience within the community.
This commitment to service naturally led to a partnership with United Way of the Midlands (UWM). By joining forces, the OWH and UWM combine their resources, expertise and shared vision for a stronger, more compassionate Omaha, ensuring that programs like Goodfellows reach further and make an even greater impact on our neighbors in need.
Through Goodfellows, we offer crucial support to families on tight budgets by mobilizing community funds during a crisis.
How You Can Help
Goodfellows Omaha directs funds toward immediate, essential support for individuals and families in crisis. This includes covering basic needs like food, clothing and household essentials, as well as providing emergency financial aid for rent, utilities and medical expenses. During the holidays, Goodfellows extends seasonal support by offering meals and gifts to families who otherwise might not be able to celebrate. Additionally, funds are set aside to assist those facing unexpected hardships, such as job loss or illness. With a strong commitment to minimizing administrative costs, donations go directly to helping Omaha’s most vulnerable residents, maximizing each contribution’s impact on the community.
Basic Needs Assistance
Food and Nutrition: Helping families secure essential groceries and meals, especially during times of crisis.
Clothing and Essentials: Providing clothing, shoes and necessary household items for families who may lack resources.
Emergency Financial Support
Rent and Utilities: Offering short-term assistance with rent and utility bills to prevent evictions and keep families in stable housing.
Medical Expenses: Covering emergency medical costs for those who need immediate care but lack financial means.
Holiday Assistance
Seasonal Support: Every year, funds are allocated to provide holiday meals, gifts and supplies for families who may not have the resources to celebrate, keeping the program’s legacy of holiday giving alive.
Special Case Assistance
Unforeseen Hardships: Support for individuals and families affected by sudden crises, such as job loss, illness, or other unexpected challenges that strain their resources.
Administrative Efficiency
Direct Community Investment: The majority of Goodfellows funds go directly to aid recipients, with minimal administrative costs, ensuring that donations make the maximum impact.
Donor and Recipient Stories
Discover how your generosity, alongside other compassionate donors, changes lives daily.