On Our Block: A Compilation of Inspiring Events, People and Stories
Introducing On Our Block! We’re bringing you a compilation of events, unique programs, inspiring people and stories happening right here in Omaha.
Whether you're a lifelong Omaha resident or just moved here, we're your one-stop shop to discover all that our vibrant city has to offer. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, and follow us on social media to stay in the loop. Let's explore Omaha together!
1. Common Soil Seed Library
It’s spring, meaning those with green thumbs are gearing up their gardens. Are you new to gardening? Maybe you hope to provide your family with healthy vegetables all summer. Did you know you can check out seeds from Omaha Public Library?
Started in 2013, the Common Soil Seed Library is an initiative to promote urban agriculture and foster food literacy. Whether you’re a master of preserving tomatoes or literally killing every plant you grow, the seed library is here for all skill levels, with plenty of books and resources to brush up on your skills.
So how does it work?
Cardholders can check out up to 15 packets of seeds each month. These seeds are completely free, and there are many varieties to choose from. You can even put them on hold. You can check back in at different times of the year to find different seeds based on seasonality.
“It's important to note that while you can learn how to save seeds and donate back to the seed library, you don't have to do so. There is no obligation attached to checking out seeds from the Common Soil Seed Library,” said Courtni Kopietz, marketing manager at OPL.
What’s amazing is that the Common Soil Seed Library promotes food literacy through year-round classes and supports an abundant and genetically diverse landscape.
2. Access Period
Access Period is supporting a major win for ending period poverty in Nebraska with the passage of LB 1284, which provides a pilot program to distribute menstrual products in schools.
The organization serves anyone who needs access to period products. In Nebraska alone, more than 50,000 women and girls between the ages of 10 and 44 live below the poverty line. Many assistance programs do not include hygiene products like tampons and pads. Access Period helps to fill that gap by offering 10 access points for free products throughout the state and through its community partners.
Now, the passage of 1284 will not only help make period products more accessible in schools but also combat the stigma around menstruation. Some may wonder, doesn’t the school nurse just provide them?
“Oftentimes, I have school nurses and school social workers calling and saying, ‘I have been buying period products on my own for so long, and I can't do it anymore. It's expensive,” said Kristin Lowrey, founder and executive director. “This will allow period products to be where they're needed, which is the restroom.”
3. Meals on Wheels
You may have heard of Meals on Wheels. It’s a program for older individuals who are homebound and need support. MOW provides in-home delivery to fill the nutritional needs of people facing hunger.
Our aging population is growing, and so is the need for services like Meals on Wheels. Among Americans over the age of 60, 29% have a disability, 24% live alone, and 12% are veterans, according to the organization.
What’s more, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the organization that runs MOW locally, is in greater need of volunteers. Without volunteers, MOW could not meet its mission. What’s the commitment? Approximately 10 to 12 meals are delivered between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you’re interested in volunteering, apply at enoa.org or call 402-444-6536. Applicants will go through a screening process and orientation.
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