LEXINGTON, NE — Following the unexpected closure of the Tyson Foods plant in January 2026, the
Lexington Community Foundation (LCF) provided emergency assistance to address immediate needs facing
individuals, families, and organizations throughout the community. To date, LCF has disbursed over
$765,000 in private relief funding, directly assisting individuals and families most affected by the closure
through trusted local agencies, while also providing continued agency assistance, growth opportunities, and local student scholarships.
As Lexington continues to navigate the effects of the closure, the Foundation looks ahead. While immediate
relief efforts remain important, the Foundation believes the community has an opportunity to move from
responding to the crisis to reinvesting in Lexington’s long-term vitality.
LCF is developing a community revitalization initiative focused on downtown neighborhood enhancements,
creating opportunity, strengthening the local economy, and building a stronger future for Lexington.
A key part of this effort will be hearing directly from the people who live, work, own businesses, attend
school, and invest in Lexington. Community members are invited to complete a brief survey to share their
thoughts about Lexington’s strengths, challenges, opportunities, and priorities for the future.
“This is an opportunity for our community to come together and think beyond the immediate challenges we have faced,” said Barry McFarland, LCF Public Relations Chairman. “We want to hear from the people who know Lexington best. Their ideas and perspectives will help us understand where we should focus our efforts and what will make the greatest difference for our community.”
The survey will gather feedback to help identify priorities and opportunities as LCF works with community
leaders, businesses, organizations, and residents to develop a thoughtful, collaborative revitalization plan.
Community members are encouraged to participate, regardless of where they live or work. Every
perspective matters as we consider what Lexington can become in the years ahead.
Community Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GW893GP
The Lexington Community Foundation is committed to creating opportunity and strengthening Lexington’s
future. The Foundation looks forward to working alongside the community as this next chapter begins.
About the Lexington Community Foundation
The Lexington Community Foundation was established in 1982 to use philanthropy to improve the lives of
all who live in the area. For more than 40 years, LCF has brought together respected community members,
philanthropists, and leaders to find solutions to the community’s most difficult challenges. For more
information about the Lexington Community Foundation, visit www.lexfoundation.org
