Our Beginning

Fresh Start was founded in 1991 by a group of people who wanted to make Lincoln an even better place to live, and wanted to help those struggling in our community. They decided to focus on homeless women without children in their custody, as this was identified as an underserved group. The organization Fresh Start was modeled after a transitional house in Calgary, Canada. The name “Fresh Start” came to mind when someone spoke of giving women a “fresh start in life.” Fresh Start has provided services to over 1,900 women over the last 30 years.

Our Mission

To empower women experiencing homelessness to change their lives by recognizing and using their strengths to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency.

Our Vision

Fresh Start is a proactive agency focused on eradicating homelessness for
women through quality services and expanded partnerships.

Our Values

Respect for each affiliated individual and for the organization itself
Accountability to the residents, the public, and supporters of Fresh Start; 
     residents' accountability to their goals
Individuality of all people affiliated with the organization is embraced
Stability of the organization and for our clients’ living situations
Empowering all