The Ryan Foundation donated $100,000.00 to New Visions Homeless Services
The Ryan Foundation donated $50,000 to New Visions Homeless Services in June 2024 and an additional $50,000 in August 2025, bringing total contributions to $100,000.
New Visions Homeless Services (NVHS) was founded in 1995 and has consistently furthered its mission in the Council Bluffs and Omaha area. One of the program’s recent expansions includes the introduction of a warming center during the winter, providing shelter from harsh weather along with access to essential resources. Donation funding has supported general operating expenses that serve more than 20,000 individuals each year. Services include permanent supportive housing for veterans in Omaha, emergency shelter and street outreach in Council Bluffs, food stability programs, prevention efforts, and employment training.
NVHS continues to be a leading force in addressing homelessness. Between January 2023 and June 2024, 90% of permanent supportive housing clients transitioned into or maintained stable housing. Additionally, the prevention services enabled 240 families to avoid homelessness. During the winter of 2024, more than 264 unduplicated clients utilized the warming center, where 1,395 meals were served.
Looking ahead, the challenges remain significant. Homelessness among senior veterans is projected to triple over the next decade due to the lack of affordable housing and limited access to resources. Nationwide, homelessness among veterans increased by 7% in 2023, with a growing number of veterans approaching retirement age on fixed incomes unable to meet the rising cost of rent. To address this need, NVHS has secured 9.9 acres in Omaha to build a new 46-unit permanent supportive housing complex for aging veterans. This commitment reflects the legacy of Wayne Ryan, who was deeply passionate about veterans after serving his country in the U.S. Navy at the age of 18.
"As homelessness increased thought-out the nation in 2023, NVHS has stood strong, providing innovative solutions and stronger community partnerships to provide a pathway out of homelessness and where possible to prevent it all together." said Brandy Wallar President & CEO New Visions Homeless Services
For more information, please visit their website.
Photos provided by NHVS 18-month Impact report 2023-2024
